Hi Ray,
As Chris will no doubt point out, the fungi "season" is here all year - it just depends on the types of fungi that you are interested in.
However I understand what you mean, and the "main" time of year when the larger fungi are around in abundance is (usually) from round about now, until the end of October- November(ish). - But fungi don't play by the rules, and you might easily find odd ones here and there at any time of year.
By far the best way (as I've found out) to learn quickly and "in the right way" about fungi, would be to join your local fungus group - which in your case will be the same group that I'm a member of "The North West Fungus Group".
The group has forays in Lancashire, in most months of the year, and at least two per month for the next few months.
Those who are only interested in "edibles" will not find the activities of much benefit, but those who are interested in
all fungi will be made most welcome.
The group comprises of folk from all sorts of backgrounds, but all with a great love of anything fungus. Outright beginners (as I was a couple of years ago) are welcomed, and quickly made to feel part of the group, and all the members are happy and keen to share their time and knowledge.
There is a list of this years forays here:-
Foray & Special Events Programme for 2011
and the upcoming ones at Moor Nature Reserve and Carr Mill Dam are especially suited for beginners.
The group's website is here: -
Homepage of the North West Fungus Group
and includes a page with a membership form which can be downloaded and sent in for anyone with a desire to join. (NB it says 2010 on the form - but the details and price are still valid).
In the case of the NWFG, it only costs £7.50 a year to join - less than the price of a couple of beers.
Other organisations (such as Lancashire Wildlife Trust) may also have forthcoming forays in the Lancashire area but I'm not aware of any at present. (and LWT's website seems to be down at the minute so I can't check).
Footnote - If you have a good interest in the subject, you might like to get a copy of one of the recommended field guides - probably the best pocketable one is the Collins Complete Guide to British Mushrooms and Toadstools by Paul Sterry and Barry Hughes (It can be found from internet booksellers at around £13.00).
Hope that's of some interest.
Regards,
Mike.
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