Cheddar Reservoir, Site of Special Scientific Interest in Sedgemoor, England.
Cheddar Reservoir is a water storage facility in Sedgemoor, England, shaped in a circular form near the village of Cheddar. The water basin with earthen banks covers a large area and serves as a water supply source for the surrounding region.
The reservoir was completed in 1937 by the construction firm Sir Robert McAlpine and was among the first in Britain to permit sailing. This development marked a shift in how reservoirs were used, combining water supply with public recreation.
The reservoir draws birdwatchers who come to observe migrating and wintering waterfowl in their natural habitat. The open water and quiet shorelines make it a place where people connect with wildlife and nature throughout the year.
Two car parks offer direct access to the water body, with entry points at both the Axbridge end and the eastern side near the village. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather, particularly during the bird-watching season in autumn and winter.
The water supply comes from the Cheddar Yeo river, which flows through the famous Cheddar Gorge and carries minerals from the limestone landscape. This connection links the reservoir to one of the region's most recognizable natural features.
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