Getting Around
Long Meadow is accessed through one of several gaps in the hedge on the north side of Park Lane. A very obvious, well-trodden grass track circles round the meadow.
It is very easy to find your way around and to find an exit. But please be careful when leaving Long Meadow - bicycles whizz along the cycle path which runs immediately beside the hedge.
There is information on what to see at Long Meadow here.
Generally, this is easy walking. In winter the entrance areas can become muddy, and there is a section of path along the north side of the meadow which can become somewhat waterlogged in winter.
Most of Long Meadow is in the flood plain and so can become flooded. This is rare.
Croft Close Nature Reserve (formerly Set-aside) is best accessed from the western end of Croft Close. From here a network of paths fan out. Some are well defined, others less so. All wind their way around bushes, trees or patches of long grass, constantly opening up new vistas with a magnificent mosaic of different forms of vegetation.
There is information on what to see at Croft Close Nature Reserve here.
With so much variety packed into such a small space it is easy to become a little disorientated! But don’t despair. You are never more than about 100m from the edge of the set-aside field. If in doubt, head to the southern edge – you should see the houses of Barrowcrofts and Croft Close on your left as you do so. The southern boundary path is well worn and despite the small wiggles runs quite straight. Follow this with the tallest trees on your right-hand side and you will return to Croft Close.
The Set-aside can also be accessed off Gun’s Lane, either hopping across an often-dry ditch and up a couple of steps or from the tip of the set-aside field; here, under a magnificent horse chestnut the western boundary path takes you towards the heart of the field.
Much of the set-aside is on clay. After rain, especially prolonged periods, it can be heavy walking. A true taste of the countryside around our community, a pair of wellies or good walking boots is well advised at such times.