Merrowick isn’t for the faint of heart, because it simply exists. It’s not that visitors aren’t welcome, it’s more that nobody can figure out why anyone would want to visit in the first place. It is the smallest village in Alderwick County, housing workers who are employed at neighbouring farms. Many of them are from other towns and villages and follow wherever the work goes. Depending on the season, Merrowick might be bursting at the seams or reduced to a handful of old families.

A few fishermen call Merrowick home, and supply the local population directly, with extra put aside for travelling merchants. Imagine having a fish for lunch that was swimming out at sea that very morning. There isn't a market square to speak of, but a few of the village's permanent families tend small gardens and are happy to sell visitors whatever remains after trading with their neighbours, of course. Merrowick is quite well-known for its traditional harvest gatherings, when families and neighbours come together to celebrate the season's bounty. But for some reason, they’re very particular about their bread.

There is a surprisingly lovely beach just to the north of the fishing sheds, but you will have to contend with both the large rocks in the path, and the village children who flock there for a dip before school (and sometimes during). This is all par for the course to Merrowick’s residents, and not at all appealing to the majority of Alderwick’s yearly visitors. But there are those who are thrilled by the solitude of the place, and the comfort of the beds at Merrowick Arms. Ignore the name. It isn’t that fancy, and caters more to transient workers than rich tourists. You won’t find many grand attractions, but those who appreciate the quiet beauty of rural life may take pleasure in its open fields, coastal paths, and simple hospitality.