Viewpoints from your doorstep: 10. Bassetts Mead

This magnificent view of the surrounding countryside can be enjoyed from the comfort of a strategically placed bench at a high point. Click on the image for the full size version.

On my visits to Bassetts Mead I have been richly rewarded by its flora and fauna.

My favourite plant in the meadows is marsh woundwort, known for its medicinal properties – very soothing for cuts and grazes.

The botanical interest in the meadows is maintained in autumn & winter by the conservation grazing of British White cattle.

In the hedgerows I have enjoyed one of my only two bullfinch sightings in Surrey, Berkshire and Hampshire in the last six years!

My favourite attraction at Bassetts Mead is the meandering River Whitewater, a fast-flowing chalk stream of shimmering pool-riffles…

…where, under the sun-dappled willow trees, reed buntings forage along the luscious banks.