Ellesmere is thought to have been named by the Saxons who called it ‘Aelsmere’ or ‘great lake.’ Imaginative lot the Saxons.
The Moors is all that’s left of a big bog that had been here since the end of the last Ice Age. Two hundred years ago the canal builders cut through and drained it. They dumped the soil in the Mere to make Eleanor’s Island.
With the Mere on your left, walk back along the road passing the Moors car park. Cross the grass at the far end of the car park where you will see a finger post that directs you to canal towpath. Cross over the road, taking care as this road is busy.
Follow the path to the Shropshire Union Canal and turn right along the tow path.
Leave the canal and turn right along the path signposted ‘Visitor Centre, Car Parks, The Mere.’ Follow the path over the boardwalk.
Turn left into the Nature Reserve. Follow the stoned path for short distance then turn right up the earthen path through trees. Leave the reserve closing the wooden gate behind you.
Turn left along the quiet lane to a kissing gate on the right with a signpost directing you to the visitor centre.
Go through the gate and head towards the picnic tables.
At the furthest picnic table drop down to the tarmac path, leading you to a kissing gate. Cross the road at the Boat House.
