There are few places in Alderwick quite as agreeable as Brackenmere, provided one has a fondness for water, fish, and people who insist upon discussing both at considerable length. The town had its genesis along the shores of its namesake lake, from which generations of fishermen have made their living hauling the prized Brackenmere Trout from its depths.

Fed by streams from the high country, Brackenmere Lake supports an abundance of freshwater crustaceans, providing a veritable feast for the hungry trout inhabiting its depths. The resulting fish are prized for their delicate pink flesh and remarkably fine flavour, qualities which command handsome prices in the Alderwick markets. Just don’t ask the local fishermen where to find the best specimens if you’re determined to do some fishing yourself; they’re notoriously reluctant to disclose such information.

If fish isn’t to your liking, there’s no need to worry. Other towns have markets. Brackenmere is a market, surrounded by numerous orchards and farms. Depending on the time of year, you may even be able to pick your own fruit, in exchange for free labour of course. If you do get a chance to visit Brackenmere during damson season, head to Market Square on a Saturday, but be quick about it. Martha Pritchard’s damson pies are to die for, and one of these days someone may very well be killed for buying the last one.

But the real draw of Brackenmere is its lake. There’s nothing quite like an early morning run along its shores as the fog rolls in. The town is worth the visit, and you won’t have to venture far from Greyhaven. However, should a suspiciously friendly local try to convince you that participation in the annual ‘Kiss the Trout’ event is a must, do note that no such thing exists. I am quite certain that Brackenmere Trout much prefer being pan-fried in butter, with a dash of salt and lemon, to pandering to the folly of intrepid visitors.