Ladybower Reservoir

About

Ladybower Reservoir is a large Y-shaped reservoir in the Upper Derwent Valley, at the heart of the Peak District National Park. The reservoir was built between 1935 and 1943, and was officially opened by King George VI on 24th September 1945.

The reservoir was constructed due to the heavy demand for water from industrial towns surrounding the Peak District. With its long, deep valley, high average rainfall and low population level, Ladybower was seen as an ideal location for the storage of water.

Work began on the reservoir in 1935 and during construction, the villages of Derwent and Ashopton were flooded. The inhabitants of the two villages were relocated to Yorkshire Bridge estate, just downstream of Ladybower Dam.

During the 1990s, the wall of the Dam was raised and strengthened to reduce the risk of 'over-topping' in a major flood.

Ladybower Reservoir is surrounded by stunning countryside with magnificent views of water, woodland and moorland. The area is a magnet for outdoor-lovers and there many circular walking and cycling routes nearby, plus stunning viewpoints such as Bamford Edge (pictured above).