Things to do at Jopes
Waterlily Lake
Waterlily Lake – you will find this on the other side of the river about 200yds upstream – you can either cross the river on the car bridge or on a footbridge up by the lake. As well as the huge display of lilies you will see plenty of dragonflies, damselflies, etc., in spring and summer. There is a seat by the lake - a perfect place for morning coffee or to keep and eye on the bird boxes.
Water meadow and Christmas Trees
Walk on past the lake and through a small gap and you will reach a flat grassy path that takes you up through the water meadow. The Christmas trees were planted as screening about 20 years ago and are now huge! We are trying to keep this area as wild as possible, but we are having to fight back Himalayan Balsam which is highly invasive and if left alone will crowd out native species.
Woodland
The path to the woods goes up between the mill and the cottage and along the terrace. From here there is a path which winds up through the woods to the top of our land. From the pine trees half way up there are two routes to the top so you can do a short circuit. The woods are a carpet of bluebells in April and May. Go up at night and see if you spot an owl! There is a seat at the top which is a lovely place for morning coffee.
Riverside Lawns
Our lawns stretch both sides of the river - there is a footbridge. You are welcome to play ball games, etc,. We also have a croquet set you can borrow although the grass is not exactly championship standard. You can play in the river, but at your own risk - children and young people must be supervised at all times.
Barbeque and fire pits
There are two fire pits with garden benches in the grounds. We provide a barbeque (plus utensils) and picnic chairs for both the mill and the lodge so you can pick your own barbeque spot if you would like to. We can supply charcoal made in the valley by our neighbour.
