Haweswater Reservoir

Haweswater Reservoir is a water reservoir in Mardale Valley, Cumbria, that stretches six kilometers in length and reaches 600 meters at its widest point. The basin holds 84 billion liters of water and sits within a valley landscape surrounded by steep hills.

Construction began in 1929 after Parliament gave Manchester Corporation permission to build the dam, which led to the flooding of Measand and Mardale Green villages. Residents left their homes before the water filled the valley and buried the old settlements beneath it.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds looks after parts of the area and provides a home for golden eagles and many other bird species. Visitors can watch birds along the shores while taking in the quiet landscape that surrounds the water.

A circular walk around the basin takes about five to six hours and offers changing views of the water and surrounding hills. Free parking is available at Mardale Head, where several walking routes begin.

When water levels drop, stone walls and bridges from the drowned village of Mardale Green appear above the surface. These remains draw visitors who want to glimpse the old settlement before the water rises again.

Location: Cumbria

Elevation above the sea: 246 m

GPS coordinates: 54.51889,-2.80472

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30