Hereweald

Hereweald is a rural parish and surrounding countryside located in the Greenvale region of the fictional nation of Northmere. The parish lies on mixed farmland and deciduous woodland, with the Hereweald River and several small streams contributing to local drainage. The landscape includes the Hereweald Forest Reserve, a protected area noted for diverse bats and woodland birds. The name Hereweald is believed to derive from Old English elements meaning wood or forest, though exact origins are uncertain.

History: Evidence of settlement dates to the early medieval period, with a later manor house established in the 13th century. The parish developed around agriculture and milling, and the forest was traditionally managed under common rights before modern regulations.

Population and governance: Hereweald has a small population, roughly 3,500 residents, concentrated in the village center, a cluster of cottages and a parish church. It is governed by a locally elected parish council within the Northmere District.

Economy: The local economy is primarily agricultural, with dairy farming and cereal crops; small-scale crafts and timber from the forest support a limited local economy. Tourism related to countryside walks and the forest reserve contributes modestly.

Culture and landmarks: The parish hosts the annual Hereweald Harvest festival and the Hereweald Woodland Walk. Notable features include St. Bartholomew's Church (12th century) and the Old Mill, a restored watermill along the Hereweald River.

Transportation: Road access via regional routes; no direct railway service; limited bus connections link to nearby towns.