Ellesmere brings together the history of the Llangollen Canal and the natural and waterside experience at The Mere. When planning, it helps to make a simple distinction: would you mainly like to explore canal heritage and historic buildings, spend more time walking, or focus on activities on the water? The attractions offer different things; you can choose what to see in Ellesmere based on your interests, without having to follow a set itinerary.
Canal Heritage and Craftsmanship in Ellesmere
The Llangollen Canal was designed by Thomas Telford and was originally known as the Ellesmere Canal. The two names make the change from the earlier to the present-day name clear. At the canal junction in Ellesmere, you can visit historic canal buildings and an old forge. The forge is still used to produce historic metalwork. This subject therefore encompasses both the canal’s construction history and a craft that continues to this day.
Castlefields, the Castle and Walking Trails
Ellesmere Castle is a Scheduled Monument. The castle is believed to have been built shortly after 1086 by Roger de Montgomery. The outer bailey is open to the public; check local information before your visit. This means you can plan a visit to the historic site whether or not you want to focus on canal history.
The ancient earthworks and meadows of Castlefields offer a different perspective: the Ellesmere Sculpture Trail passes through both. The route is a way to include sculptures and a landscape shaped by ancient earthworks in your exploration.
For a walk with a clear distance, try Meres Meander Walk 1: this circular route covers one mile around Ellesmere. The towpath at Ellesmere is open at all times. If you plan to include it in your itinerary, check the latest visitor information before you travel.
The Mere: Water, Gardens and Birdwatching
The Mere is one of the largest natural meres in the country and offers several different ways to enjoy your stay. Canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and boating are permitted on the water year-round, provided you complete a membership form and pay the annual fee. For boating, a day rate is also available in addition to annual membership. Fees and participation requirements may change; check them before your visit.
Cremorne Gardens at The Mere has a children’s play area and a small beach. The park facilities complement the waterside activities with more ways to enjoy the outdoors. Check the latest information about the facilities before you travel.
The seasonal Ellesmere Heronwatch offering provides video cameras and telescopes that visitors can use to watch the grey herons nesting on Moscow Island in The Mere. Check in advance whether the offering will be available during your trip.
Choosing the Focus of Your Stay
When looking for a hotel in Ellesmere, you can first decide what you want your trip to centre on: canal history, walking trails or activities around The Mere.
Discover more destinations: Albrighton, Criggion, Weston Rhyn, Clun, Baschurch, Silvington, Lydbury North, Frodesley.
For the broader travel overview: Shropshire.
