Ellesmere and surrounding area

Ellesmere is located in the north of the county of Shropshire. The area contains a mixture of housing in terms of age and type, and the town of Ellesmere itself is fairly densely populated and provides a range of shops and other amenities. Ellesmere was first settled by ancient Britons. The area has nine meres (glacial lakes) with the town being situated next to one of the largest meres in England outside of the Lake District. A castle was built in the 11th Century, of which only earthworks now remain. The mere itself contains an artificial island, constructed in 1812 from the soil dug out to make the gardens at Ellesmere House. It was later named Moscow Island, as Napoleon's defeat in Russia also took place in that year. The mere has a visitors' centre and is popular with birdwatchers.  

Ellesmere is a popular destination with visitors, who are attracted to its natural lakes, wildlife, tranquil walks, and the nearby canal network. The visitor centre attracts around 250,000 visitors a year. 

Place plans were developed to include a main centre (often a market town) and its surrounding smaller towns, villages and rural hinterland. These areas are recognised in the local plan as functioning geographical areas, with strong linkages to and from the main town and the wider area.

For up-to-date area profile and census information, please take a look at our Ellesmere profile.

The Ellesmere and Surrounding Area Place Plan covers the area identified on the map on this page. It summarises and prioritises the local infrastructure needs which are required to support the sustainable development of the area, and identifies the wider investment needs to assist delivery of the community’s vision and aspirations.

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Data and information review