Whatever the time of year, there are many lovely walks to enjoy in our local area taking in the stunning Shropshire countryside, the canal and the historic mosses which are just a stone’s throw away from the marina.
Here’s three walks to try, of varying distances, all starting and ending at the marina.
We have a stunning, natural environment on our doorstep – a wealth of natural resources, ideal for walkers and their four-legged friends. Our dedicated pathway takes you directly onto the canal towpath (please ask for our walks’ leaflet). A short stroll will take you to Whixall Moss, part of the world-renowned Fenn’s, Whixall and Bettisfield Mosses National Nature Reserve and the habitat of several rare species. Created more than 10,000 years ago as the glaciers that covered much of Britain receded, the Marches Mosses are one of the largest raised peat bogs in Britain and one of the rarest habitats on earth and an enormous carbon store, holding more carbon acre for acre than forest does. It’s a haven for plants and wildlife that thrive in the acidic peat. Many of these are seen in very few other places on earth. A ‘Mammoth Tower’ overlooking the moss provides a birds-eye view of this exceptional and memorable landscape, and is definitely not to be missed.
Further along the canal, ornithologists can enjoy a visit to the Charles Sinker Fields Bird Hide, named in honour of the passionate conservationist who recognised the unique nature of the meres and mosses of Shropshire, and who campaigned for their protection. Charles Sinker Fields is one of the best sites for wildfowl and wetland birds in North Shropshire, and home to curlews, lapwings and many more dabblers and waders.
More about Whixall Moss here: https://themeresandmosses.co.uk/visiting-the-mosses/
