THE ELDER: TREE OF MEDICINE, MYTH & FOLKLORE

The Elder: Tree of Medicine, Myth & Folklore

Join Dan Moar and Max Henderson of Forage Pembrokeshire & Hydref collective, for a deep exploration of one of Britain's

most fascinating and culturally significant trees: the Elder.

For centuries, the elder has stood at the crossroads of folklore, medicine, ecology, and seasonal abundance. Revered as a healing tree, feared as a doorway to the spirit world, and celebrated for its generous gifts of flowers and berries, the elder has woven itself into the fabric of our landscapes and traditions.

During this gathering, we'll journey into the world of the elder through multiple lenses. Together we'll explore how to identify, forage and use elder responsibly, discover its remarkable ecological relationships with insects, birds and fungi and uncover the rich folklore and stories that have surrounded this tree for generations.

We'll also share our experiences working with elder, including making traditional elderberry syrup or cordial, to take home, while discussing its long history as a food and medicine.

Blending natural history, storytelling, ecology, and hands-on learning, this experience is an opportunity to deepen your connection with the landscapes around you through the lens of a single extraordinary tree.

Whether you're enthusiastic about foraging, nature connection, herbalism, or simply curious about the hidden lives of trees, come and discover why the Elder remains one of the most beloved and mysterious species in our countryside.

What to Expect:

Woodland Foraging Walk

Elder identification and responsible foraging

Ecology and species relationships

Folklore, myth, and traditional uses

Elderberry syrup or cordial making

Seasonal observations and natural history

Stories, discussion, and shared learning

Sweet Treats from the Elder tree

Step beneath the elder's branches and uncover a world of connection, abundance, and wonder.

Location:

Cilrath Wood Camping

Narberth

Pembrokeshire

SA67 7EY 📍