South Stoke is a Village and Parish on the Oxfordshire/Berkshire borders that is surrounded by truly wonderful rural countryside. Nestled on the Thames, you can enjoy lots and varied wildlife on the river. Also, over the last few years, there has been an influx of birds of prey. Most notably the Red Kites have taken up residence in the area. Not a day goes by when you don’t see these huge magnificent birds with their arrow shaped tails hunting in the skies.
We are very fortunate that most of the land around the village is agricultural. Throughout the seasons we watch the fields being sown and harvested, culminating with the school children having their Harvest Festival Celebrations in the Church and donating to the needy.
A five minute walk down the bridleway towards Goring-on-Thames and you will reach Withymead Nature Reserve, a haven for all local wildlife and fauna. You will find snakes in compost, swans, amazing butterflies, and dragonflies to name a few – and the gardens are spectacular, with marshy sections resplendent with the rare Loddon Lilies. There are also hides down along the river to maybe spot a Kingfisher or two. It simply is a must for anyone with an interest in nature.
From the B4009 the views stretch across the countryside for miles and are simply breathtaking especially early morning. In the distance we see the pigs on the farm basking in comfort. Many people come through South Stoke as part of the Thames Path and The Ridgeway or when walking along the river and stop off at our friendly Pub/Restaurant ‘The Perch & Pike’ or to pick up a snack or coffee, or pick up some supplies at our local, volunteer-run South Stoke Community Shop.
So what’s stopping you? We know you’ll be made very welcome by all the parishioners – and we’re sure the wildlife won’t mind either!