About Ladybower Reservoir
The Upper Derwent Valley is situated in the stunning Peak District National Park. It is the perfect place to enjoy some the UK's most beautiful landscapes.
Ladybower Reservoir Description
The history of Upper Derwent
The reservoirs of Derwent and Howden were built nearly 100 years ago to supply the cities of Sheffield, Nottingham, Derby and Leicester. Over 1000 people were involved in building them and were housed in the temporary ‘Tin Town’ at Birchinlee. Ladybower was completed in 1945 to supply an ever increasing demand. This resulted in the flooding of the villages of Derwent and Ashopton – when water levels are low, you may get a glimpse of the village remains.
The settlements of Derwent and Ashopton were abandoned to make way for the reservoirs and the imposing neo-gothic dams were built in the deep valley to contain and control the fast flowing moorland rivers. The valley sides were planted with thousands upon thousands of conifers to protect the steep slopes and the precious water below.
What will I find there today?
Today the Upper Derwent Valley is a popular visitor attraction with over 2 million visitors per year. The site is renowned for it’s natural beauty and managed by Severn Trent Water in partnership with Peak District National Park Authority.
What wildlife will I see?
The conifer plantations have been carefully maintained to become vast woodland areas home to the threatened Goshawk. You may also see some of the Red Grouse, Ring Ouzel and Merlin who have made their home on the nearby moorlands of the Dark Peak.
Not many people know. . .
The Derwent, Howden and Ashopton Resevoirs were in fact once the training site of the famous Dambusters Squadron.
Reviews
Disappointed that weather conditions meant the Lancaster couldn't fly today, but better safe than sorry. Still, lovely to see lots of people coming together to celebrate this special anniversary of the Dambuster raids. 617 Squadron, lest we forget. #RAF100 #Dambusters RAF BBMF
IMPORTANT UPDATE
The windy conditions mean that the planned Lancaster flight over the site will not be happening today.
The Royal Air Force have instead arranged for a Typhoon to fly as much of the route as possible.
... For further updates follow Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (Official).
See More
IMPORTANT UPDATE: Dambusters 75 flypast, Wednesday 16 May.
The Royal Air Force and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight have this evening indicated that current forecast weather conditions may lead to the cancellation of tomorrow's scheduled flypast in the Upper Derwent Valley. This is due to the maximum wind speeds allowed for the operation of the vintage aircraft.
The RAF can be followed via Twitter @RoyalAirForce and Royal Air Force and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (Official) .
Phew! It's a scorcher! If you're visiting our reservoirs today please don't be tempted to take a dip. The water may look inviting but there are dangerous currents and unseen hazards below the surface. Stay safe and stay out of the water.
Lancaster update!!!! It's official, the Lancaster is coming to Derwent Dam on the 16th May at 12.05 and will do a couple of circuits before heading down the valley and flying over Chatsworth then on to the Rolls Royce factory in Derby before finishing at Eyebrook reservoir. We are very, very excited!!!! For more information about the event go to www.derbyshire.gov.uk/battleofbritainflig ht or www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/…/eve…/dambus ters-anniversary-flight
Shhhh! Don't tell anyone, the Lancaster is coming! We are working with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight on an event to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Dambusters raids and the 100th anniversary of the RAF.
Another week of temperatures like these and we'll be bidding for the next Winter Olympics! Reckon we could host the figure skating, ski jump and luge.
The Wall, Game of Thrones comes to Derbyshire. Anyone seen Jon Snow?
A stunner of a day here. Dams still frozen. Road better than yesterday but still not advisable unless in a 4x4. Fairholmes is closed today apart from the toilets. Hope to be all open again tomorrow. Stay warm and enjoy your snow day.
A close up of the ice decorating Derwent Dam. First day of Spring! Cheers Beast from the East.
First day of Spring! Derwent Dam looking mighty fine.
Mad dogs and Englishmen (and rangers and farmers).
It's been a few years since Derwent Dam looked like this! Road to Fairholmes impassable without a Landrover, so stay home and stay warm. Enjoy the view from your armchair, we will bring you photos!
This was less than a week ago! Luckily it's all cleared up now and easy to get here to exercise the small energetic ones during half term.
Derwent Dam last week, now slowed to a trickle but fingers crossed it will be in action again before we wave goodbye to winter.
Winter isn't done with us yet. More snow forecast tomorrow. Ashopton viaduct looking fabulous last week.
Big coat and fat tyre weather at King's Tree, Howden Reservoir.
No apologies for posting another of our favourite views. Ladybower in full flow.
The plugs have been pulled out again! Plenty of water action shots at Ladybower, Derwent and Howden Dams this weekend.
it's the most stunning place good for the mind and soul.
been going for over 30 yrs ..took my children to introduce them to nature now i want to start taking my grandchildren ...stunning
Wow only 40 miles from Nottingham and stunning views.
Great paths for walking, running and cycling. I'm just puzzled that car parks are situated at one end near the dam and you can walk the length of the reservoir. The difficulty is getting back. You either have to turn around and walk back the way you came or take the high risk of walking on the road as there is no pavement.
Even cycling on Snake Road is not without danger.
I strongly suggest that the water company invest in a circular path and pay for it by building a new visitors centre that has a cafe and restaurant to generate the revenue to cover it.
Me my husband and daughter love it here away from all the hussle and bustle,we came with our labrador daisy and always enjoy it ,we've been visiting for years and we even bought something from the little gift shop 😊
Love this area so much. Loads to see and great walking and cycling.
I must like it here this is 4th or 5th time iv been in the last month or so. Been again today with some friends who saw a post I did on Facebook earlier. Comments: what a beautiful place, can we go, stunning views etc. This is first time iv been on a Sunday & wow it was busy ! I would normally go Mid week a bit more peaceful. Due to a dry winter the water stocks are down so plenty of areas to have picnics. The most I can give is 5 stars but worth a dam site more than that excuse the pun ! There were some lucky Air Cadets able to go on the Derwent Dam wall but they were doing a ceremony. So well done to them ��� Only thing missing was a proper fly past � My next visit will be to do the entire Ladybower or do the full Derwent Edge. See you soon.
Honestly, it's my go to walk with the pooches when I fancy a nice relaxed walk with a cracking cuppa and a pasty half way round - and if we want a longer walk, pick a pasty up and take it up to eat at the pack horse bridge... there's a pattern, I know, but they're really good pasties lol
Have visited many times but not been cycling round the res for 30 years, I was expecting it to be difficult ride but it was really easy, 16 miles nice and steady with a short stop for a snack it took us almost two hours on a fab sunny cloud free day. We could have easily done it again but we'll save that for another day.
Great page, very helpful information and quick response to messages, thank you the Ladybower Team!
First time I've ever been to Ladybower Reservoir and will be going again soon wife in a wheelchair and 11 year old son so a variety of different needs and all catered for from the simple beauty of the area to the local facilities the Ladybower pub does wonderful food ( I had trout caught from reservoir son had a scrumptious burger wife had pulled pork) all washed down with local beers and pop at a reasonable price. Looking forward to my next visit. �
Did the full circular walk
Stopping at the Visitors Centre about half way for a quick loo break
Also nice to see a ranger on the walk
He was very informative
100% recommend
Brilliant 2 hr walk today, weather perfect not too hot!!!
Beautiful, tranquil, peaceful, relaxing just what you need to get away from the stress of everyday life
Beautiful scenery and a historical place of interest.
Beautiful place to visit with lots of different walking routes.
Amazing area.Stunning scenery on our doorstep,almost magical.Well cared for and one of my favourite areas.
Absolutely stunning location for nice evening strolls or even a quick skinny dip!!!
I've spent the weekend camping around the area and climbing and hiking! Spent a lot of time cooking on the stove just at the side of the river which was breath taking!
Parking can be an issue but what beautiful location isn't!?
Highly recommend visiting with friends and family! 💚
Love the area . Love the place. Everybody regardless of wealth and lifestyle is at home here. One of the gems of England this area
Been here a couple of times it's a lovely place for a walk a run or cycle, you can stick to the reservoir path or take some of the paths that venture off it, it's all lovely
it's the most stunning place good for the mind and soul.
been going for over 30 yrs ..took my children to introduce them to nature now i want to start taking my grandchildren ...stunning
Wow only 40 miles from Nottingham and stunning views.
Great paths for walking, running and cycling. I'm just puzzled that car parks are situated at one end near the dam and you can walk the length of the reservoir. The difficulty is getting back. You either have to turn around and walk back the way you came or take the high risk of walking on the road as there is no pavement.
Even cycling on Snake Road is not without danger.
I strongly suggest that the water company invest in a circular path and pay for it by building a new visitors centre that has a cafe and restaurant to generate the revenue to cover it.
Me my husband and daughter love it here away from all the hussle and bustle,we came with our labrador daisy and always enjoy it ,we've been visiting for years and we even bought something from the little gift shop 😊
Love this area so much. Loads to see and great walking and cycling.
I must like it here this is 4th or 5th time iv been in the last month or so. Been again today with some friends who saw a post I did on Facebook earlier. Comments: what a beautiful place, can we go, stunning views etc. This is first time iv been on a Sunday & wow it was busy ! I would normally go Mid week a bit more peaceful. Due to a dry winter the water stocks are down so plenty of areas to have picnics. The most I can give is 5 stars but worth a dam site more than that excuse the pun ! There were some lucky Air Cadets able to go on the Derwent Dam wall but they were doing a ceremony. So well done to them ��� Only thing missing was a proper fly past � My next visit will be to do the entire Ladybower or do the full Derwent Edge. See you soon.
Honestly, it's my go to walk with the pooches when I fancy a nice relaxed walk with a cracking cuppa and a pasty half way round - and if we want a longer walk, pick a pasty up and take it up to eat at the pack horse bridge... there's a pattern, I know, but they're really good pasties lol
Have visited many times but not been cycling round the res for 30 years, I was expecting it to be difficult ride but it was really easy, 16 miles nice and steady with a short stop for a snack it took us almost two hours on a fab sunny cloud free day. We could have easily done it again but we'll save that for another day.
Great page, very helpful information and quick response to messages, thank you the Ladybower Team!
First time I've ever been to Ladybower Reservoir and will be going again soon wife in a wheelchair and 11 year old son so a variety of different needs and all catered for from the simple beauty of the area to the local facilities the Ladybower pub does wonderful food ( I had trout caught from reservoir son had a scrumptious burger wife had pulled pork) all washed down with local beers and pop at a reasonable price. Looking forward to my next visit. �
Did the full circular walk
Stopping at the Visitors Centre about half way for a quick loo break
Also nice to see a ranger on the walk
He was very informative
100% recommend
Brilliant 2 hr walk today, weather perfect not too hot!!!
Beautiful, tranquil, peaceful, relaxing just what you need to get away from the stress of everyday life
Beautiful scenery and a historical place of interest.
Beautiful place to visit with lots of different walking routes.
Amazing area.Stunning scenery on our doorstep,almost magical.Well cared for and one of my favourite areas.
Absolutely stunning location for nice evening strolls or even a quick skinny dip!!!
I've spent the weekend camping around the area and climbing and hiking! Spent a lot of time cooking on the stove just at the side of the river which was breath taking!
Parking can be an issue but what beautiful location isn't!?
Highly recommend visiting with friends and family! 💚
Love the area . Love the place. Everybody regardless of wealth and lifestyle is at home here. One of the gems of England this area
Been here a couple of times it's a lovely place for a walk a run or cycle, you can stick to the reservoir path or take some of the paths that venture off it, it's all lovely
it's the most stunning place good for the mind and soul.
been going for over 30 yrs ..took my children to introduce them to nature now i want to start taking my grandchildren ...stunning
Wow only 40 miles from Nottingham and stunning views.
Great paths for walking, running and cycling. I'm just puzzled that car parks are situated at one end near the dam and you can walk the length of the reservoir. The difficulty is getting back. You either have to turn around and walk back the way you came or take the high risk of walking on the road as there is no pavement.
Even cycling on Snake Road is not without danger.
I strongly suggest that the water company invest in a circular path and pay for it by building a new visitors centre that has a cafe and restaurant to generate the revenue to cover it.
Me my husband and daughter love it here away from all the hussle and bustle,we came with our labrador daisy and always enjoy it ,we've been visiting for years and we even bought something from the little gift shop 😊
Love this area so much. Loads to see and great walking and cycling.
I must like it here this is 4th or 5th time iv been in the last month or so. Been again today with some friends who saw a post I did on Facebook earlier. Comments: what a beautiful place, can we go, stunning views etc. This is first time iv been on a Sunday & wow it was busy ! I would normally go Mid week a bit more peaceful. Due to a dry winter the water stocks are down so plenty of areas to have picnics. The most I can give is 5 stars but worth a dam site more than that excuse the pun ! There were some lucky Air Cadets able to go on the Derwent Dam wall but they were doing a ceremony. So well done to them ��� Only thing missing was a proper fly past � My next visit will be to do the entire Ladybower or do the full Derwent Edge. See you soon.
Honestly, it's my go to walk with the pooches when I fancy a nice relaxed walk with a cracking cuppa and a pasty half way round - and if we want a longer walk, pick a pasty up and take it up to eat at the pack horse bridge... there's a pattern, I know, but they're really good pasties lol
Have visited many times but not been cycling round the res for 30 years, I was expecting it to be difficult ride but it was really easy, 16 miles nice and steady with a short stop for a snack it took us almost two hours on a fab sunny cloud free day. We could have easily done it again but we'll save that for another day.
Great page, very helpful information and quick response to messages, thank you the Ladybower Team!
First time I've ever been to Ladybower Reservoir and will be going again soon wife in a wheelchair and 11 year old son so a variety of different needs and all catered for from the simple beauty of the area to the local facilities the Ladybower pub does wonderful food ( I had trout caught from reservoir son had a scrumptious burger wife had pulled pork) all washed down with local beers and pop at a reasonable price. Looking forward to my next visit. �
Did the full circular walk
Stopping at the Visitors Centre about half way for a quick loo break
Also nice to see a ranger on the walk
He was very informative
100% recommend
Brilliant 2 hr walk today, weather perfect not too hot!!!
Beautiful, tranquil, peaceful, relaxing just what you need to get away from the stress of everyday life
Beautiful scenery and a historical place of interest.
Beautiful place to visit with lots of different walking routes.
Amazing area.Stunning scenery on our doorstep,almost magical.Well cared for and one of my favourite areas.
Absolutely stunning location for nice evening strolls or even a quick skinny dip!!!
I've spent the weekend camping around the area and climbing and hiking! Spent a lot of time cooking on the stove just at the side of the river which was breath taking!
Parking can be an issue but what beautiful location isn't!?
Highly recommend visiting with friends and family! 💚
Love the area . Love the place. Everybody regardless of wealth and lifestyle is at home here. One of the gems of England this area
Been here a couple of times it's a lovely place for a walk a run or cycle, you can stick to the reservoir path or take some of the paths that venture off it, it's all lovely
it's the most stunning place good for the mind and soul.
been going for over 30 yrs ..took my children to introduce them to nature now i want to start taking my grandchildren ...stunning
Wow only 40 miles from Nottingham and stunning views.
Great paths for walking, running and cycling. I'm just puzzled that car parks are situated at one end near the dam and you can walk the length of the reservoir. The difficulty is getting back. You either have to turn around and walk back the way you came or take the high risk of walking on the road as there is no pavement.
Even cycling on Snake Road is not without danger.
I strongly suggest that the water company invest in a circular path and pay for it by building a new visitors centre that has a cafe and restaurant to generate the revenue to cover it.
Me my husband and daughter love it here away from all the hussle and bustle,we came with our labrador daisy and always enjoy it ,we've been visiting for years and we even bought something from the little gift shop 😊
Love this area so much. Loads to see and great walking and cycling.
I must like it here this is 4th or 5th time iv been in the last month or so. Been again today with some friends who saw a post I did on Facebook earlier. Comments: what a beautiful place, can we go, stunning views etc. This is first time iv been on a Sunday & wow it was busy ! I would normally go Mid week a bit more peaceful. Due to a dry winter the water stocks are down so plenty of areas to have picnics. The most I can give is 5 stars but worth a dam site more than that excuse the pun ! There were some lucky Air Cadets able to go on the Derwent Dam wall but they were doing a ceremony. So well done to them ��� Only thing missing was a proper fly past � My next visit will be to do the entire Ladybower or do the full Derwent Edge. See you soon.
Honestly, it's my go to walk with the pooches when I fancy a nice relaxed walk with a cracking cuppa and a pasty half way round - and if we want a longer walk, pick a pasty up and take it up to eat at the pack horse bridge... there's a pattern, I know, but they're really good pasties lol
Have visited many times but not been cycling round the res for 30 years, I was expecting it to be difficult ride but it was really easy, 16 miles nice and steady with a short stop for a snack it took us almost two hours on a fab sunny cloud free day. We could have easily done it again but we'll save that for another day.
Great page, very helpful information and quick response to messages, thank you the Ladybower Team!
First time I've ever been to Ladybower Reservoir and will be going again soon wife in a wheelchair and 11 year old son so a variety of different needs and all catered for from the simple beauty of the area to the local facilities the Ladybower pub does wonderful food ( I had trout caught from reservoir son had a scrumptious burger wife had pulled pork) all washed down with local beers and pop at a reasonable price. Looking forward to my next visit. �
Did the full circular walk
Stopping at the Visitors Centre about half way for a quick loo break
Also nice to see a ranger on the walk
He was very informative
100% recommend
Brilliant 2 hr walk today, weather perfect not too hot!!!
Beautiful, tranquil, peaceful, relaxing just what you need to get away from the stress of everyday life
Beautiful scenery and a historical place of interest.
Beautiful place to visit with lots of different walking routes.
Amazing area.Stunning scenery on our doorstep,almost magical.Well cared for and one of my favourite areas.
Absolutely stunning location for nice evening strolls or even a quick skinny dip!!!
I've spent the weekend camping around the area and climbing and hiking! Spent a lot of time cooking on the stove just at the side of the river which was breath taking!
Parking can be an issue but what beautiful location isn't!?
Highly recommend visiting with friends and family! 💚
Love the area . Love the place. Everybody regardless of wealth and lifestyle is at home here. One of the gems of England this area
Been here a couple of times it's a lovely place for a walk a run or cycle, you can stick to the reservoir path or take some of the paths that venture off it, it's all lovely