Colemere Country Park

The meres of north Shropshire — Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

Cole Mere

Cole Mere (or Colemere) is one of the cluster of glacial meres that makes north Shropshire unique in the English lowland landscape. Like its neighbours — The Mere at Ellesmere, Blake Mere, and White Mere — Cole Mere was formed when a block of glacial ice, buried in clay during the retreat of the last ice sheet, melted to leave a bowl that has held water ever since. The mere has no rivers flowing in or out; it is rain-fed, seepage-drained, and ecologically self-contained.

Cole Mere is smaller than The Mere at Ellesmere but, precisely because of its lower profile, quieter and less visited. The surrounding countryside — ancient wet woodland, reedbed margins, and open farmland — gives it a richness that the larger and more exposed meres lack. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and part of the Meres and Mosses National Nature Reserve.

The Circular Walk

The 1.5-mile circular walk around Cole Mere is one of the best short walks in north Shropshire. The path follows the shore closely for most of its circuit, passing through mixed woodland (oak, ash, alder) on the western side and alongside the open reedbed on the south shore, where views across the water to the far bank are open and tranquil. The northern shore passes through parkland-style grassland with willows overhanging the water.

The walk is mostly level and suitable for all ages and abilities, though the surface can be muddy in winter. Waterproof footwear is recommended after rain. The circuit takes approximately 30-45 minutes at a leisurely pace; bird-watchers typically take considerably longer.

Birdwatching

Cole Mere is excellent for birdwatching throughout the year. Great crested grebe nest on the mere in spring and summer, performing their elaborate courtship dances — one of British birdwatching’s more theatrical displays. Tufted duck, pochard, and mallard are present year-round; goosander appear in winter. The reedbeds hold sedge warbler and reed bunting in the breeding season; bittern have wintered occasionally.

The woodland edges support nuthatch, treecreeper, and all three woodpecker species (great spotted, lesser spotted, and green). The farmland fringe has yellowhammer and linnet in the hedgerows. Early morning visits in May and June give the most active birdwatching.

Getting There

Colemere Country Park is 3 miles south of Ellesmere off the A528, approximately 10 miles north of Oswestry. Follow the A528 north from Ellesmere and turn off as signed for Colemere. The car park is free. There are picnic benches and information boards; no café on site. The nearest facilities are in Ellesmere town (3 miles). Dogs are welcome on leads throughout. Ellesmere town is an excellent combination visit for a full half-day, with its own Mere, boat hire, and cafés.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colemere Country Park free?

Yes. Colemere Country Park is freely accessible with free car parking. There is no café on site; the nearest facilities are in Ellesmere town, 3 miles north.

How far is Colemere from Oswestry?

Colemere Country Park is approximately 10 miles north of Oswestry, about 20 minutes by car via Ellesmere.

Can I see great crested grebe at Colemere?

Yes. Great crested grebe nest on Cole Mere in spring and summer and their elaborate courtship displays can be seen from the shoreline path. They are present most of the year.

Are dogs allowed at Colemere Country Park?

Yes. Dogs are welcome throughout Colemere Country Park on leads. The mere is a nature reserve so please keep dogs under control near the water's edge and reedbed areas.