High Rid Reservoir, reservoir in Greater Manchester, England, UK
High Rid Reservoir is a small water body with stone banks situated near Bolton in the Horwich area. The site is managed by the Lancashire Outdoor Activities Initiative and accommodates groups of up to 40 people for water sports including kayaking, canoeing, and sailing.
The reservoir was created to store water and manage the flow of nearby streams. From 2009 to 2017, Bolton Council ran water sports programs for young people at the site, and after 2017 the Lancashire Outdoor Activities Initiative took over management and reopened activities.
The reservoir's name reflects its location at a higher elevation in the local landscape. Today, the site is used by school groups and local clubs who come together for water activities and to develop outdoor skills in a natural setting.
The site is accessible on foot about 3 miles (5 km) west of Bolton town center, with parking available at the end of Fall Birch Road. Vehicles cannot reach the water, so arriving and exploring the area on foot is the best approach.
The site is favored by birdwatchers who regularly spot little grebes, tufted ducks, and goldeneyes, with occasional sightings of rarer species such as ring-necked ducks and long-tailed ducks. Its quiet, remote location makes it a valuable spot for wildlife observation close to urban areas.
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