It has become customary to describe nearly every rural village as charming and quaint, but Stonemead actually lives up to that description. Of course, its residents will insist that you include another word in that description…cultured. And they don’t particularly care what the rest of Alderwick thinks about that. The village spreads out from a central market square along narrow streets lined with handsome stone cottages and sturdy old houses that have withstood centuries of weather. One thing you will notice about these streets is that they are exceptionally clean, and they had better stay that way.

Stoneflow Beck winds through the countryside to the east, while ancient footpaths lead visitors towards the surrounding hills and woodlands, some of which are considerably older than the village itself. The surrounding countryside is littered with archaeological remains, many of which have inspired considerably more speculation than actual understanding. The nearby Whisper Wood has become something of a paradise for antiquarians, archaeologists, and amateur ‘experts’. The residents are generally happy to provide directions, although they have a peculiar habit of asking whether you intend to return before nightfall.

If you have an interest in that sort of thing, the local museum has a lovely collection of pottery, tools, ornaments, and other relics of former inhabitants. Or you could step over to the bookshop for some light reading and a delightful cup of tea. If you can get the owner on your good side, he might even point you in the direction of the few artisans renowned throughout Alderwick for their stonework. For all its scholarly attractions, Stonemead remains a peaceful and rather picturesque village, with its old buildings and quiet streets offering a welcome escape from the bustle of Alderwick's larger settlements.