Ladybower Reservoir

Things to do at the Ladybower Reservoir

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.

Ladybower was a very attractive location for the storage of water, with its long deep valley and narrow points for dam building. This, combined with the high average rainfall, low population level and heavy demand for water from the industrial towns that surrounded the Peak District, made the case for the reservoir to be constructed.

The villages of Derwent and Ashopton were flooded to create Ladybower Reservoir and the inhabitants 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 views of water, woodland and magnificent 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).