Lichens Walk in Greenwich Park and Blackheath

A gentle introduction to London’s lichens, in Greenwich Park and Blackheath.

Lichens are fascinating, often beautiful and can be found across London. We will be in the field, looking at the basic structure of lichens that we find, including features key to identification. We will discuss the issues of pollution that impact on lichens both currently and historically and the ever-changing status of lichens in London. We will learn about some common species, the much-overlooked fungi that devour lichens and discuss micro-habitats and the role of lichens in ecosystems.

Joe Beale ACIEEM FBNA is a London-based naturalist and an experienced tutor. He organises lichen surveys in London and worked on the lichen collection at the Natural History Museum while on the Identification Trainers for the Future programme. Joe has extensive experience of recording wildlife and plants in London’s parks and green spaces and he contributes regularly to publications such as The London Naturalist. He is passionate about London’s fascinating biodiversity and communicating this richness to others.

Meet at the main Greenwich Park gates, Charlton Way, SE10 8QY

Train: Blackheath station and ten minutes’ walk, or buses 53, 54, 108*, 89*, 202, 380 and 386 all stop nearby. *ten minutes or so walk across the heath.

Please bring a hand lens or binoculars if you have them.

About the route: It’ll all be on relatively flat ground, lawn and paths, maybe a little long grass. We’ll be going at a slow pace. The route can adjusted if need be on the day but it should be fine. We won’t go down or up any hills or rough ground.

Tickets: £10 members/£15 non-members

Please book via the Eventbrite ticketing system below