Ellesmere

Three centuries of meres and mosses shape this corner of north Shropshire, where glacial lakes dot the landscape like scattered mirrors. Ellesmere sits at the heart of it all - a proper market town that refuses to be rushed. The high street feels genuinely lived-in rather than polished for tourists, with independent shops that locals actually use.

The real draw here is the water. Hanmer Mere stretches out just beyond the town boundary, while the mysterious Bettisfield Moss offers something altogether different - a raised bog that's been growing for thousands of years. Wem Moss National Nature Reserve nearby provides cracking walks through ancient peat bog habitat that feels properly wild.

Church architecture tells the story of centuries past. St John the Baptist's dominates the town centre, but venture out to find the Parish Church of Saint John the Baptist and St Chad's Church, each with their own character. Mount Cop, an intriguing archaeological site, hints at even older human settlement.

Nature reserves abound. Gredington Park and Bettisfield Park offer gentle rambles, while Donkey Field provides a more intimate wildlife experience. The Lyneal Moss forest makes for a proper afternoon's exploration when you need to stretch your legs.

Getting here is straightforward enough - it's about 20 minutes north of Shrewsbury by car, though the rural roads can be a bit twisty. The nearest railway station is at Gobowen, roughly 8 miles away.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense. You're ideally placed for day trips into Wales - the border's practically on the doorstep - while having easy access to both Shropshire's lake district and the wider countryside. Fernwood Caravan Park and Colemere Caravan Park put you right in the thick of things, while options like Archers' Meadow Glamping offer something a bit special for those wanting to try something different.