About
Mere is a charming and historic little town located in the South West of Wiltshire. Sitting beneath the South West Wiltshire Downs - much of which is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - Mere is adjacent to and easily accessed from the A303.
To the north of the town is the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty providing a wealth of interest for walkers and nature lovers. If you are interested in history, look out for strip lynchets at Mere Down, showing areas where ancient ploughing took place. Or take a trip to the archaeologically significant site at White Sheet Hill, where there is a 5000-year-old Neolithic enclosure, a circular earthwork, Bronze Age barrows and an Iron Age hill fort at White Sheet camp. White Sheet Hill Nature Reserve also offers lovely walks, panoramic views and a rich habitat for wildflowers and butterflies.
Much of the town of Mere dates from the late 17th century and is constructed of local stone. In the main square is the Mere Clocktower, a very picturesque structure dating from 1868. Mere Clocktower is the focal point of the historic town.
Planning a trip to Mere? There are excellent facilities for visitors... There are two free car parks with toilets and coach parking. In the centre of the town, a tearoom, pubs, take away food, and a traditional butcher can be found. Adjacent are antiques retailers, a PO, greengrocers, pharmacy, Yapps Wines, and other shops. Varied accommodation is available with the beautiful National Trust property Stourhead House and Gardens within two miles, and Longleat also close.
Mere also has its own library (with computers and WiFi), information point, and first-rate museum. Nearby you can try your hand at clay pigeon shooting, angling, or golf. For families with young children, head to the Falconry and the Bison Farm. There is excellent walking and horse riding along woodland tracks and open downland, while local cycle routes provide for both leisurely and more challenging expeditions.