Crai Reservoir, reservoir in Powys, Wales, UK
Crai Reservoir is a large water storage facility in Wales within Brecon Beacons National Park, spanning about 100 acres south of Sennybridge. Built between 1898 and 1908 to supply water to Swansea, it features a 28-meter-high dam constructed from over 10 million bricks and now serves both water supply and recreation including fly fishing for brown trout.
The reservoir was built between 1898 and 1908 to supply drinking water to the growing city of Swansea, representing a major engineering project of its time. Its construction reflects the region's industrial expansion in the early 20th century and the demand for water infrastructure in nearby communities.
The reservoir is known locally as a fly fishing destination where anglers gather to catch brown trout in natural surroundings. The site holds meaning for those who value quiet outdoor pursuits and connects visitors to the landscape's working relationship with nearby communities.
Parking is available at the dam wall accessed by a gated track; wear sturdy footwear as terrain is uneven and muddy in places. Visit during warmer months when water activities are most accessible and fishing conditions are favorable for spotting trout.
The water here is exceptionally clear and requires minimal treatment before reaching homes; interestingly, water purification happens at a separate facility called Nant yr Wydd where the water is screened, disinfected, and treated with lime to ensure quality. This blend of natural setting and modern water management demonstrates how the reservoir functions as part of a larger regional infrastructure.
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