So here is a walk around the edge of our village, that you can do from the comfort of your home. We start our walk at the “heart” of the village, the Church. The oldest building in the village it stands surrounded by literally a host of golden daffodils.
We move on down Church Lane and pass Alder Carr farm, with its little farm shop and giant wicker heart on the gate; a representation of the love and the care in the village during the lockdown.
Just before we go into the fields, we turn to catch a glimpse of the church framed by beautiful Spring blossom.If it’s Spring, you will find lambs in the fields discovering the joys of the world with mum in close attendance.A walk across the fields takes you to one of the joys of a Mayfield walk – the river Dove in full flow and on a quiet and bright Spring day with a mirror like finish.In fact it is so quiet and warm that we have “Two Swans a’sleeping” on a small island they have made their own.However, life is not all about lazing about and shortly after, they majestically swim downstream enjoying the view no doubt.The noise of rushing water in the distance takes you on until you reach the weir and its here you can see just how much water is in the river. The sounds and views of the sparking river naturally hold your gaze and minutes can quickly slip by as you enjoy nature at its best.We have almost reached the furthest point of our walk and Toad Hole footbridge just comes into view behind a beautiful tree just dressed for Spring.You can’t resist going on the bridge and playing a game of Pooh sticks before setting back of home. It is so peaceful on the river.And so we set of back across the fields, not directly to the church but first to Middle Mayfield, guided by the sight of Mayfield Hall in the distance nestling under the hill.As we come to Middle Mayfield we meet inquisitive horses, awaiting our arrival.Middle Mayfield has the largest collection of the village’s oldest buildings, harking back to a bygone age and looking magnificent in the Spring sunshine.Picturesque as the village is, its still part of a modern community as the blue recycle bin awaiting collection testifies!And so wend our way back to the church going up Hermitage Lane and taking the footpath across the field beyond with evidence of the Spring sowing already having an effect and reminding us that the village is still a farming community.Almost home; the church tower stands proud in the landscape and as we come close another tree in blossom reminds us that Spring is definitely here in our Mayfield community. Words and photos S.D.
