A Fungus Foray at Broompark
It’s always a treat to discover something new close to home, and today’s Fungus Discovery Walk (Oct 2025) at Broompark just outside Durham City was just that, an eye-opening autumn adventure among the trees.
Organised by Durham County Council, the event popped up on Facebook and immediately caught my attention. Broompark Picnic Site proved an easy place to find, with good parking and clear signage, the perfect starting point for an hour or two outdoors.
The familiar red and white fly agaric – a classic woodland find.
Getting there
Broompark Picnic Site sits just a few miles southwest of Durham City, off the A690 towards Brandon. There’s a small car park with picnic benches and clear walking routes that link into the Lanchester Valley Railway Path. The site is also accessible by bus, alight at Broompark and it’s only a short stroll to the picnic area. Paths are generally well maintained, though can be muddy in autumn, so walking shoes or boots are a good idea.
One of many striking fungi spotted along the woodland path
Fungi galore!
Our guide for the morning was Ranger Richie Bell, whose knowledge of the natural world seemed endless. Friendly and engaging, Richie led the group at an easy pace, pointing out the many shapes, textures and colours of the fungi that flourish in this ancient woodland. Children were well-catered for too, with a mini treasure hunt to keep younger explorers busy and everyone went home with a helpful handout to remind us what we’d seen.
Following the path directly away from the car park, we soon left the open area behind and entered the shelter of the old woods. Once inside, fungi seemed to appear everywhere, sprouting from fallen logs, nestling among moss, and dotting the leaf litter in every direction. It was astonishing how much variety could be found on such a short walk.
For me, it was a first visit to Broompark, but certainly not the last. The combination of crisp autumn air, gentle company and the thrill of spotting so many different fungi made this a memorable morning.
If you get the chance to join one of these guided nature walks, do, as they’re a wonderful way to slow down, learn something new, and see familiar places through fresh eyes.
A colourful collection of fungi found on the Broompark discovery walk.
Looking for more local walking ideas? Visit our Durham Pointers Walks section for guides to woodland trails, riverside strolls and family-friendly routes.
Ann has been a Durham Pointer for several years