Cross over Fieldon bridge from Atherstone and you not only enter Leicestershire but the hamlet of Pinwall in the parish of Sheepy Magna. This  parish of 600 inhabitants also includes the hamlets of  Sheepy Parva, Cross Hands and the old liberty of The Mythe, now represented by one regency farmhouse.

The area did suffer from redevelopment in the 1950/60s but the are still many examples of 18^th and 19^th century buildings. A tight cordon round the old village restricts Further development the surrounding countryside remaining remarkably un-spoilt. There are plenty of opportunities for walking either on the many lanes or local footpaths which are clearly marked.

Sheepy village itself is approached by the old Atherstone Burton  turnpike as it squeezes between the river Sence and the old turnpike. There is a Village pub, the Black Horse originally a bakery, where you can get a meal or bar snack and the village shop. Don't miss the church of All Saints where there are some fine stained glass windows.

Further on past the village a right turn over the Sence and past the old mill now converted into apartments is Sheepy Parva where the 15^th century stands by the Sence. To the west of the village is the old extra-parochial  liberty of Merevale once part of the Merevale abbey estate. Open farmland dotted with ancient farms including Newhouse Grange which boasts the largest tithe barn in the country.

Why not stay awhile or at least call in to one of the local inns for a drink and a pleasant meal. Follow this link for an for a list of places to stay and eat.

Updated 05 April 2011 18:51:49