Hornsea Mere is the largest natural lake in Yorkshire, approximately 3 kilometres long, 1.2 kilometres at its widest point and covering an area of 470 acres. It is a freshwater lake, but lies only 1.5 kilometres from the coast.
A network of ‘meres’ created by glacial retreat once scattered Holderness. Hornsea Mere is the only surviving example of these, and therefore has significant natural and cultural heritage value. As such, it is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Protection Area (SPA).
The mere is now primarily used for leisure, and is popular for sailing, rowing, angling and bird watching. It is privately owned by the Wassand Estate.
