Forton & Aqualate Mere

About the event

Join us on this wonderful 5 mile winter walk.

Aqualate Mere is the largest of the West Midland meres – glacial lakes formed 10,000 years ago after the last ice age. Along the route, there is a strip of woodland that contains another feature from the last ice age, an esker – a ridge of sands and gravel deposited by a meltwater river that ran underneath the ice sheet.

A detour to the bird hide on the eastern edge of the mere is recommended. Common waterfowl can be seen, but also some rarities, recorded in a diary inside the bird hide. 

Relatively flat walking along field paths and quiet country lanes. Cows possible in some fields. Some fields may be tussocky and marshy in places; boots recommended.

Optional visit to: The Swan Hotel Eccleshall Road, Forton TF10 8BY after the walk.

Difficulty: Easy

Meet up on the car park of the Swimming baths in Market Drayton, and then travel to the start point from Market Drayton, that way if anyone needs a lift those with cars may be able to assist? If you live more locally to the start point you can travel direct to the start point, but YOU MUST make us aware via an email message!

We leave the swimming baths at: 9.15am prompt.

Date: Wednesday 24th January  2024

Starting Point: :

Aqualate Mere National Nature Reserve Car Park TF10 9DE

What 3 words is required for exact location below:

///racing.complains.pacifist

(10.00am prompt the walk commences)

Important note* Postcodes don't take you to exact location, you need to use what 3 words for exact location!!! 

You must be a member of Drayton Hikers in order to attend this event.

Sorry NO Pets allowed.

Advisory: Please bring warm/waterproof clothing, boots, food and a Hot Drink, dependant on weather.

*You participate in this Walk entirely at your own risk*

Note* Maximum number of 25 people on this walk, based on a "first come first served basis" event will be closed when full