Top 5 Lakes around Meare

The area around Meare is historically significant for what was once a large body of water called Meare Pool. This ancient lake, largely drained centuries ago, was vital for fishing, supported prehistoric lake villages, and played a crucial role in the local economy, particularly for Glastonbury Abbey. Its legacy is preserved through archaeological sites and the 14th-century Meare Fish House.

While Meare Pool itself was drained and is no longer a prominent lake, its former bed is now part of the agricultural landscape of the Somerset Levels. Heavy winter flooding can sometimes evoke its former appearance. The area's rich history is best explored through sites like the Meare Fish House and the archaeological sites of the Meare Lake Villages, which offer insights into Iron Age life on the lake's edges.

The wetlands around Meare, including reserves like Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve and Westhay Moor Nature Reserve, are havens for diverse wildlife. You can spot marsh harriers, kingfishers, otters, water voles, and a variety of waterfowl and wading birds, including the rare great white egret. These areas are also famous for spectacular starling murmurations in autumn and winter.

Yes, several areas are family-friendly. The Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail offers a fantastic gravel path suitable for walks and cycling, where families can enjoy nature observation and bird watching. Many of the nature reserves, such as Somerset Levels Wetlands, have easy routes with low car traffic, perfect for exploring with children.

For birdwatching, Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve and Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve are highly recommended. These sites are internationally famous, particularly for their diverse bird populations, including great white egrets, and for the impressive starling murmurations that occur from autumn through winter.

Absolutely. The Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail is part of National Cycle Route 3 and offers a good surface of fine, hard-packed gravel. The Somerset Levels Wetlands also feature excellent routes with tarmac roads and small side roads with very little car traffic, making them ideal for cycling while spotting wetland wildlife. For more cycling options, you can explore the gravel biking routes around Meare.

Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. The Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail is popular with walkers. You can find a variety of trails, from easy to more challenging, within the nature reserves. For detailed hiking routes, refer to the hiking guide for Meare, which includes routes like the 'Bittern Trail' and longer loops.

The wetlands offer different experiences throughout the year. Autumn and winter are particularly spectacular for birdwatching, especially to witness the starling murmurations at reserves like Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail and Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve. Spring and summer are excellent for seeing diverse plant life and other wildlife.

The Meare Lake Villages are sites of significant prehistoric Iron Age settlements that existed between 300 BCE and 100 CE. These villages were built on artificial foundations within the marshy Meare Pool and have yielded a wealth of archaeological artifacts, providing crucial insights into ancient life in the Somerset Levels. While not visibly preserved structures, their historical context is immense.

The Avalon Marshes Centre serves as a key gateway for visitors to understand the rich natural and historical heritage of the Somerset Levels. It provides information about the area's ecology, the story of Meare Pool, and its prehistoric inhabitants, making it a great starting point for exploring the region.

Yes, many of the nature reserves offer excellent viewpoints. The Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail and Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve, as well as Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve, are known for their scenic vistas and opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats.