YOU know Spring is here when the lovely Kempley daffodils come into flower.

Small wild daffodils also known as “Joncils” grow freely in many fields and the surrounding woods and can be enjoyed on the circular ‘Daffodil way’ footpath covering approximately eight miles.

The daffodils may be seen from the roads between Newent and Dymock which pass through the village of Kempley. Local maps are available from the village hall showing the sites of specific interest where daffodil fields can be seen.

Many years ago, the daffodils were picked by local children and sent by train from Gloucester to London for the hospitals and to be sold in the markets. Each bunch had to have the same number of flowers and leaves and were tied with raffia.

Several of the fields around the village are carpeted with daffodils and are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).

Unlike cultivated daffodils, the wild daffodils propagate from seed taking about 4 years to reach the flowering stage; they then flower again for another 2 or 3 years.

It is therefore important not to cut the grass until the flowers have seeded and the seeds have matured - usually late June or early July.

This year the Daffodil Weekend at Kempley offers top Spring Walks in England.

All the walks have a local guide to explain the countryside and all start from St Edward’s Church Kempley. You will be able to get hot drinks at St Edwards Church prior to the early walks that start before refreshments open at the Village Hall.

You will need stout footwear and be fit enough to walk up to 5 miles and cross a number of stiles.

Dogs are not encouraged and if you do bring them, they must be on a lead.

The morning walks are timed to return you to the village hall for lunch.

Parking is available at owners’ risk.

There are daffodil walks on Saturday March 16 and Sunday March 17 2024 - each day

Starting 10:15am from St Edwards Church, where there will be light refreshments available. A guided walk will take place through farmland, old cider orchards, daffodil meadows and a visit to St Mary’s Church.