THE HISTORY OF THE MERE COURT HOTEL

The Hotel was originally 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 built in Cheshire 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 with the convenience of the Dunkerley family in mind.  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 Dunkerleys brought up four children at Meadowlands until 1955 when the house was purchased by North Western Gas Board and renamed Mere College, and used as a training centre for employees.


In 1998 the property was bought by Mr & Mrs Hampson and converted into the Mere Court Hotel and Conference Centre, standing in 7 acres of gardens including an Ornamental Lake. It included an extension to accommodate further bedrooms, and the stables were converted into the Conference Centre.

The hotel boasted 34 bedrooms, including two 4 Poster Rooms, the Oak beamed Arboreum Restaurant with oak panelling, Crystal Chandeliers, numerous function rooms and surrounded by beautiful gardens.

The hotel was then purchased by Mr & Mrs Chawla, the present owners in February 2003. During this year the Conservatory was added and has become a great asset to the hotel’s facilities, over a stunning setting for any event with access onto the terrace and views of the ornamental lake.

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