Lower Roddlesworth Reservoir, lake in the United Kingdom
Lower Roddlesworth Reservoir is a water storage area in Lancashire, England, surrounded by woodland and grassland with maintained walking paths. The water stretches gently across the landscape, with a network of footpaths and bridleways guiding visitors along the banks and through the surrounding forest areas.
The reservoir was built to store water for industry in the nearby town of Darwen, which grew during the 1800s manufacturing boom. The area still shows ruins of older buildings, including a manor house, that tell of settlement before the water was dammed.
The name comes from an old English word meaning clearing, reflecting the woodland that was once cut down in this area. Today, visitors use the paths for walking and relaxation, while anglers fish with permits and dog owners let their pets explore the surrounding woods and streams.
The walk around the reservoir is about 2.5 kilometers with flat, easy-to-follow paths suitable for most visitors. Start from the car park on Tockholes Road, where an information center and café are available for refreshments and planning your route.
From the information center, visitors can watch birds like black-headed gulls, woodpeckers, and nuthatches through large windows while enjoying homemade pies. This allows close observation of local wildlife without disturbing the animals.
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