Its been a while since we'd manage to get out on the trail of the local footpaths.
The weather and physical ailments had put a hold on many winter and spring plans. The long cold Spring was eventually put to rest recently and with the heat of the day threatening we had been invited to look at a local Micro Brewery between Framfield and Black Boys.
The Isfield Brewing Company was set up around a year ago and with a selection of well received ales they are growing in local popularity.
Toad in the Ale, Straw Blonde, Flapjack and IPA to name but a few. The Head Brewery and owner of the brewery gave an insight to the marvels of brewing and the passion with which he delivers his brews to local public houses.
After the early call to the Brewery we decided to park up in Black Boys and take a walk around some local footpaths. There was growing heat in the land as we strolled through an allotment and then through some wooded areas where both the Wealden Way and Vanguard Way shared signposts and paths. A typical area where the iron foundries were embedded several centuries ago reflected in the information on the OS map.
The farms and narrow lanes linked up conveniently and found ourselves (more by design than accident I admit) back through the farm buildings where we'd left the Isfield Brewing Company approx 1½ later. We were a little confused as to how to pick up with the footpath again, and therefore asked directions from the Brewer. We must have looked suitably desperate as we suggested that as we'd been too early for a tasting earlier, it was more appropriate as it was almost midday. An agreement was made and we sat and supped some fine 'Toad in the Ale' beer.
It was one of those moments that caused us to reflect on the hardship so many others strive for in order to achieve such moments. Yet, here it was... the countryside beckoned and the beer was looking at us.
We bid our farewells (again) and headed through the grand estate farmland where pens of pheasants were being fattened for the hunting season.
A few stiles and gates later and we were heading back towards the car where the heat of the day caused the welcomed air conditioning avoided further overheating and dehydration.