The route takes you through the heart of the Meres and Mosses Landscape in Shropshire passing by the Mere at Ellesmere, Blakemere and Colemere.
The Mere
The Mere at Ellesmere is the largest and most spectacular of the nine glacial meres in North Shropshire. The Mere-side promenade, gardens and Boathouse Visitor Centre have recently been restored to their former glory thanks to funding assistance from Big Lottery and Heritage Lottery Parks for People and the European Regional Development Fund and are a great day out for all the family.
Blakemere
Blakemere can be found just outside Ellesmere, it was referred to years ago as ‘Black Mere’ due to its peaty water colour. It was formed in the ice ages along with most of the other Shropshire meres and is abundant in natural life. There is no public access to Blakemere but it can be viewed from the canal towpath.
Colemere
One of Shropshire’s most beautiful meres, Colemere is almost completely surrounded by mature woodland and has two very attractive hay meadows. The site attracts a variety of wildfowl and waders, including snipe, curlew, goldeneye, and pochard. In fact with its diverse variety of wildlife habitats Colemere supports, with mature woodland, open meadow, hedgerows, and large expense of water, Colemere is rich in birdlife throughout the year.
Because of Colemere’s wildlife interest, the site has several important designations, Local Nature Reserve, Site of Special Scientific Interest and RAMSAR Site. Many of these designations are due to the rare marginal wetland plants that grow around the edges of the mere, this is the only site in England where the rare Least Water Lily is found.
Please note – There has been a recent official diversion on this route in Welshampton between Stocks Lane proceeding to the north of Oakleigh Farm Barn. This is reflected on the interactive map but differs from the route depicted on the downloadable leaflet. Please ensure you are following the new definitive line if you undertake this walk.
