NEW VISITORS TO THIS AREA… I know not entirely popular with everyone as they are quite noisy but they are beautiful. Having looked at the information available, to date there does not seem to be any impact on our native birds. They are still here at the moment but not as active as when the sun was beating down. I was however, very excited to see a baby kingfisher sat by the river in our garden! No phone or camera available, typical!…

SUNSET… The day before the eclipse we sat watching the sunset, for me personally it had more impact. Having not been lucky enough to purchase the correct glasses the eclipse came and went {without me even knowing lol }. This picture was taken overlooking Great Shefford, on the road heading towards Wantage. Its just one of the beautiful views, and walks that is so close by that you don’t even need to take the car out.

LAMBOURN VALLEY WAY… This picture above was taken on a very early morning walk. The sun was so hot that we had to walk the dog at silly o’clock. The fields were harvested very early this year and I’m not convinced the yield was that good? However the achilliea thrived! This walk takes you along the riverside of The Lambourn Valley Way and kept everyone cool. We are so lucky to have these walks within a 5 minute walk from the door.

LADYBIRD… Just because I love them! Hundreds of them this year. There are more than 40 species in Britain, the most common being the 7 spot. Most farmers love them as they aphids and other plant-eating pests, and who knew they could bite? Pretty harmless though.

GARDEN FLOWERS… July 4th, 2026 saw St Thomas’ Church in East Shefford host the Flower Festival. Lots more photos are available on the St Thomas’ FB page. Our flowers were all picked from hedgerows and gardens and everyone encouraged to create their designs without using floral foam. We raised in excess of £1.000.00 with the support of Team Thomas, Camp Hopson, Welford Park, The West Berks Golf Club, Herongate Leisure Club, Bills Restaurant, The Globe Theatre Cardiff and Clemency Rittner. Thank you everyone. The day was magical and all proceeds went to the Churches Conservation Trust to help restore and maintain this historical gem that is situated to the East of our village. If you haven’t visited it yet, you really should!

Our Bed & Breakfast offers a personal homely stay with lots of walks, cycling opportunities, local produce and comfortable amenities. Guided walks and evening meals are available on request.