Hornsea Mere, Past and Present
Hornsea Mere is the largest natural lake in Yorkshire. It was first opened to the public in 1885 by the Hornsea Mere and Hotels Company. Rowing boats were available for hire and fishing permits could be purchased. In addition, for a fee, sailing boats could use the Mere and also be stored on the banks. These activities continue today.
Enjoy Fishing, Boating and Sailing
Hornsea Mere offers fishing from the banks or in a boat.
You might not catch a fish as big as this one (a 27lb Pike caught in December 1906 by a certain W. Rutter Smith) but there are a variety of species such as Carp, Perch, Rudd, Roach and Pike.
Fishing permits can be purchased from the Boatshed where rowing boats are also available for hire.
Trips on the lake, in a small motor boat, are organised throughout the summer.
Hornsea Sailing Club
Hornsea Sailing Club was established in 1946. Today much of its activities revolve around racing which takes place on Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings during the summer.
The club also welcomes those who wish to enjoy sailing simply for pleasure.
On the 3rd and 4th of June they held an open weekend inviting everyone to try sailing for free.
Have a bite to eat at the Mere Cafe
In 2012, the Hornsea Mere's cafe and leisure facilities were taken over by Sarah and Mark Blake. Prior to this the Hood family had run the cafe and boating facilities for over 70 years.
The couple have made considerable changes, re-vamping the existing facilities to bring things up to date.
The Mere Cafe is open daily from 10am-4pm serving breakfasts, lunches, snacks and beverages. What's more it is child, dog and vegetarian friendly.
Evening food nights are organised throughout the year.
The Summerhouse is a recent addition to the amenities, selling postcards, souvenirs and gifts.
The putting green can be traced back to the 1920's and is still a family favourite.
Nature Trails and Birdwatching
The walk around Hornsea Mere takes in woodland, meadows and farmland. This varied trail follows a beautiful nature reserve. It weaves through Wassand Estate with stunning views over the lake.
As a deisgnated SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) and a Special Protection Area it is an ideal place for birdwatching.
In 2013 a bird hide was constructed by the Wassand Estate which offers a stunning vista across the water.
The Wassand Bird Hide and Hornsea Mere form part of the 'Yorkshire Nature Triangle' which brings together the best wildlife-watching opportunities in East Yorkshire.
Wassand Hall
Wassand Estate has been in the ownership of the Strickland-Constable family since 1520. The present Wassand Hall was built between 1813-1815. Although there are records of an earlier manor house existing in the 17th century.
The house, gardens and parks are open to the public on selected days during the summer. Cream teas can be taken in the Conservatory Café by the walled gardens.
Various events are organised throughout the summer.
Despite the weather conditions the Vintage Car Rally proved very popular.
