Lake Vyrnwy Straining Tower, Victorian water intake tower at Lake Vyrnwy, Wales

Lake Vyrnwy Straining Tower is a circular stone structure rising 52 meters from the water, topped with an octagonal section and pyramidal copper roof that can be seen across the lake. Inside, three large hydraulic strainers filter the water before it travels onward through pipes that extend far beyond the reservoir.

Engineers Thomas Hawksley and George Frederick Deacon designed this structure in 1881 as part of what was then Europe's largest water supply project. The tower stands as a product of the Victorian era when Britain was expanding its engineering to serve growing cities.

The tower's design reflects Swiss architectural influences combined with Gothic elements, creating a blend of international style and Welsh construction methods that visitors can see in its stone walls and ornamental details. This mixture shows how Victorian engineers drew inspiration from European landmarks when building something entirely new.

Visit when the weather is clear to safely walk around the stone structure and enjoy views across the lake without fog blocking the sight. Follow marked paths near the water's edge and take care on wet or slippery sections, especially after rain.

The tower employs early reinforced concrete at its gallery level, paired with Indian oak timber framing that supports the copper-covered roof. This combination of modern concrete and imported timber was an engineering innovation for its time.

• Location: Llanwddyn
• Elevation above the sea: 251 m
• GPS coordinates: 52.76990,-3.46578
• Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:42