Epping Forest fungi picking ban enforced amid social media craze
City of London Corporation warns visitors against harvesting mushrooms due to bylaws and ecological importance.
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The City of London Corporation, which manages the 8,000-acre Epping Forest, has reminded the public that harvesting wild mushrooms is banned under the forest's bylaws. This directive follows a notable increase in fungi-related content and foraging trends across social media platforms.
Ecological Importance of Fungi
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Conservationists are preparing for the autumn fungi season, with recent warm weather already contributing to the early appearance of species such as Laetiporus sulphureus, known as "Chicken of the Woods." The organisation is urging visitors to leave wild mushrooms undisturbed to help safeguard the forest's fungal diversity. While photography is welcomed, the collection of any mushrooms is strongly discouraged.
Caroline Haines, chair of the City Corporation's Epping Forest and Commons Committee, stated that Epping Forest is a significant habitat for fungi, with many species requiring undisturbed conditions. She noted that while many people are fascinated by mushrooms and wish to share their discoveries online, they may not be aware that picking is not permitted. Posts depicting mushroom collection can encourage others to do the same. "Our message is simple: click, don't pick," Haines said.
Consequences and Discoveries
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The City of London Corporation cautioned that individuals caught picking mushrooms could face fines or prosecution, even after leaving the forest. The forest, which spans the border between Greater London and Essex, is home to hundreds of fungal species and is recognised for its remarkable fungal diversity. Many of these species play a vital role in nutrient recycling, supporting local wildlife, and protecting the forest's approximately 55,000 ancient trees.
Recent years have seen notable fungi discoveries within the City Corporation's open spaces. In 2025, Epping Forest recorded the UK's first confirmed instance of the rare fungus Russula blumiana. This follows the discovery of a new species, Hydropus inopinatus, in Burnham Beeches, Buckinghamshire, in 2024.
What Happens Next
The City of London Corporation will continue to monitor the fungi season. Visitors are reminded that picking fungi is against forest bylaws and can result in penalties. The corporation encourages the public to enjoy the forest's wildlife through observation and photography.
Questions this report answers
+Is it legal to pick mushrooms in Epping Forest?
No, it is not legal to pick fungi in Epping Forest. The City of London Corporation manages the forest and has bylaws in place that prohibit the harvesting of mushrooms. Visitors are urged to leave them untouched.
+Why is picking fungi in Epping Forest prohibited?
Picking fungi is prohibited to protect the forest's ecosystem. Epping Forest is a significant habitat for hundreds of fungal species, many of which are crucial for nutrient recycling, supporting local wildlife, and safeguarding the ancient trees. Disturbing them can harm the environment.
+What are the consequences of picking fungi in Epping Forest?
The City of London Corporation has warned that individuals caught picking mushrooms could face fines or even prosecution. This applies even after they have left the forest grounds, underscoring the seriousness of the bylaw violation.
+What is the City of London Corporation asking visitors to do?
The City of London Corporation is asking visitors to enjoy Epping Forest's fungi by photographing them but not picking them. The message is "click, don't pick," to help preserve the delicate fungal populations and the overall health of the forest.
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