Country Notes from England Welcome to Country Notes from England—a gentle journey through the peaceful beauty, traditions, and seasonal rhythms of rural England. Some of my most cherished childhood memories are of slow walks with my grandmothers, wandering quiet country lanes or pottering in the garden. There they would teach me the names of the flowers, trees and birds, much of which I, sadly, grew up to forget. Now a grandmother myself, I find myself yearning for calm, slow living, and a deeper connection with the natural world. Join me on a journey of gentle rediscovery as I explore the contryside and timeless village life in England. Let's celebrate the simple pleasures of the seasons, and share stories, photos, and videos that capture the charm of rural lanes, wildflower meadows, and gentle drives.

Posts from June 2025

Whispers in the Ivy: Highgate Cemetery

Posted on 19th June 2025 at 18:25

Exploring the Beauty and History of this Famous Burial Ground

Tucked behind London’s bustling streets, where the city fades into green, lies Highgate Cemetery—a place where time rests gently under a canopy of ivy, crumbling angels, and moss-streaked headstones. It’s not just a burial ground but a story-laden landscape, where Victorian grandeur, political rebels, and literary icons sleep beneath the soil.

Whether you’re a history lover, a fan of gothic beauty, or just someone in search of something deeply moving, Highgate offers a rare and unforgettable window into London’s past.

The Salt Path

Posted on 9th June 2025 at 18:47

Film Review

Enticed by the West Country setting, I read Raynor Winn's memoir soon after the paperback was released in 2019.

I remember it as gruelling, moving, but ultimately, inspiring, so I was looking forward to the film adaptation starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs. What could be better? A very human story of grit and resilience in the face of hardship all against the glorious backdrop of the South West Coastal Path.

Dry Stone Walling in the English Countryside

Posted on 9th June 2025 at 14:40

A Traditional Craft

Nestled into the rolling hills, moors, and valleys of the English countryside, dry stone walls are among the most iconic and enduring features of rural Britain. Built entirely without mortar, these timeless structures serve practical purposes while also contributing to the visual charm and ecological richness of the land.

In this post, we explore the purpose, history, and craftsmanship of dry stone walling — and why this humble practice still matters in our modern countryside.