The History of the Mere Court Hotel

The Hotel was built in 1903 as a wedding present for the marriage of William Dunkerley and Amy Constance, originally known as Meadowlands.

It is an outstanding example of the “Arts and Crafts” style of architecture founded by John Ruskin, who believed in the display of the craftsman’s’ skills.  This is demonstrated in the fine illustrations of metalwork, woodcarving, carpentry and glass staining to be found throughout the building.  Whilst the building is similar to many others in Cheshire built around the same period, it has a definite quality and character of its own.  The importance of the house, as an illustration of Arts and Crafts skills from the 19th Century is reflected in Grade II listing by the Department of Environment.
The house was designed to suit the Dunkerley family.  Its location allowed them to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding Cheshire Countryside, while being close to the city and their established business interests.

The Dunkerley’s together with their four children lived at Meadowlands until 1955 when the house was purchased by North Western Gas Board and renamed Mere College. The house was converted into a Hotel in 1998.