Cocklemore Brook is a small river in Wiltshire, England. It is a tributary of the River Avon, which it joins near the town of Melksham.
Geography: The brook rises in the rural areas west of Lacock and flows generally northwest. Its course takes it through agricultural land and wooded areas. It passes close to several small hamlets before its confluence with the River Avon. The brook is relatively short, characteristic of many local streams in the region.
Ecology and Conservation: A significant portion of Cocklemore Brook and its surrounding land is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The Cocklemore Brook SSSI is noted for its diverse and species-rich unimproved neutral grassland, a habitat that is becoming increasingly rare in the UK. This grassland supports a variety of flora and fauna, including many indicator species for good quality grassland, and is important for local biodiversity. The brook itself also supports various aquatic species.
Hydrology: Like many brooks in the area, Cocklemore Brook is fed by local rainfall and groundwater. Its flow can vary seasonally, with higher levels typically observed during wetter months. It contributes to the overall water quality and flow regime of the River Avon.
Local Context: The brook is a notable geographical feature within its local catchment area and plays a role in the natural landscape and environmental character of west Wiltshire. It is primarily a rural watercourse, with limited direct human infrastructure along much of its length, helping to preserve its ecological value.