Astbury Mere Country Park - Walks for all

Grade: Easy
Distance: 2 km /1 ¼ miles
Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Start: Astbury Mere Country Park, Sandy Lane, Congleton | what3words: ///swan.volume.tidy

Map: OS Explorer 268
Terrain: Mainly level, compacted stone surface path

Astbury Mere is a green oasis developed on the site of a former sand quarry, less than a mile from Congleton town centre. Enjoy a stroll through wildflower meadows and admire the views across the mere towards Congleton Edge and Mow Cop. The mere is used for fishing and water sports as well as being a haven for waterfowl.

Access: Free car park at Astbury Mere Country Park, Sandy Lane, Congleton. The car park is accessible for minibuses and there are two designated disabled bays by the start of the route. Postcode for satnav: CW12 4FP. The car park is open 9am-5pm and longer in summer.

A bus service operates along the Newcastle Road, with a bus stop at Sandy Lane. Other bus routes include stops at nearby West Heath.

Refreshments: Refreshments are available at weekends and school holidays, in Congleton town and at the the water sports centre on the southern side of the mere.

Toilets: Toilets are provided at the visitor centre, including an accessible toilet with a RADAR lock.