Ladybower Reservoir

Ladybower Reservoir is a water reservoir in the Peak District National Park, Derbyshire, England, forming a Y-shape that covers roughly 210 hectares and sits surrounded by wooded hillsides. Two concrete towers rise from the water near the shores, marking the overflow structures of the dam that forms part of a water supply network.

Construction ran from 1935 to 1943 and required flooding two villages, Ashopton and Derwent, whose residents were relocated before the water rose. Completion happened during the Second World War, and the site later served as a training ground for air raids on German dams.

The name Ladybower comes from a natural valley that once held a winding stream before the area was flooded. Today walkers use the shore paths as starting points for hikes into the surrounding moorlands, and the water itself has become a quiet place where people pause to watch reflections on calm days.

Several hiking trails circle the shore and offer a loop of about 8 miles (13 kilometers) that suits a half-day walk. The paths are mostly level and easy to follow, though some sections can turn muddy after rain.

During extreme droughts the remains of the submerged village of Derwent rise from the water, drawing curious visitors to see foundations and low walls. The church was demolished before flooding, so only the lower structures appear when the water level drops.

GPS coordinates: 53.38333,-1.71667

Latest update: December 13, 2025 15:37