Trentabank Reservoir, reservoir in Cheshire East, Cheshire, UK
Trentabank Reservoir is a water storage facility in Macclesfield Forest near the Peak District boundary, covering about 23 acres and ringed by coniferous trees. It gathers water from the surrounding hills as part of a four-reservoir system supplying the town of Macclesfield, and the site operates as a nature reserve managed by the Cheshire Wildlife Trust.
The reservoir was constructed to supply water to Macclesfield and became part of a four-reservoir system serving the town's drinking water needs. Over time it developed into a significant wildlife habitat, notably hosting one of the Peak District's largest heron breeding colonies.
The reservoir sits within Wildboarclough, a rural settlement where traditional village life and land use practices remain visible to visitors. The surrounding landscape reflects how local communities have long connected with this area for work, walking, and observing nature.
The site is easily accessible with wide, well-marked paths circling the reservoir, suitable for walkers, cyclists, and pushchairs. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and plan to arrive early in the day when wildlife activity is greatest.
The reservoir hosts one of the Peak District's largest heron breeding colonies with over 20 nesting pairs that hunt and fly from the surrounding trees. Early morning visitors may also spot shy red deer coming to drink at the water's edge.
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