Ladybower Reservoir lies in the Peak District and was established in 1935, when the Derwent Valley Water Board were tasked with providing a sustainable and safe water source for Sheffield and other surrounding areas and key cities. It was the final reservoir to be constructed out of the three that now reside within the vicinity. Ladybower wasn’t completed until 1943 and during that time it was necessary for two local villages (Derwent and Ashopton) to be drowned. Although all of the residents were relocated, one lady refused to move and continued to live in her property up until her death in 1990. By this point, it was rumoured that the water in Ladybower Reservoir was touching the front steps of her cottage. The remnants of the village still lie beneath the surface of the water and occasionally, when the water levels are particularly low, some of the old structures are still visible to passersby.
The dam itself is especially unique as it houses two entirely enclosed bellmouth overflows which are each located at either side of the wall. Both structures are constructed of stone and have a diameter of 24 metres (80ft), with outlets that are 4.6 metres (15ft) in diameter. Water is discharged via two separate valve houses which are situated at the base of the dam. Although the overflow tunnels originally had walkways positioned throughout, they have been dismantled and, with the exception of the odd frog, fish and shrew, the structures remain completely bare.
After a good caving session in the Peak District we found ourselves inadvertently driving towards Ladybower Reservoir. As we drove we gazed at the calm waters, and watched several people casually fishing and riding bicycles. Suddenly, the exploration urge began to twitch and in an instant we found ourselves tucked away inside a fine looking overflow tunnel. Inside it was reasonably windy and a fair amount of nature also decided to join us on our little expedition into the darkness. Both overflow systems are remarkable structures though, and were well worth a visit!
The dam itself is especially unique as it houses two entirely enclosed bellmouth overflows which are each located at either side of the wall. Both structures are constructed of stone and have a diameter of 24 metres (80ft), with outlets that are 4.6 metres (15ft) in diameter. Water is discharged via two separate valve houses which are situated at the base of the dam. Although the overflow tunnels originally had walkways positioned throughout, they have been dismantled and, with the exception of the odd frog, fish and shrew, the structures remain completely bare.
After a good caving session in the Peak District we found ourselves inadvertently driving towards Ladybower Reservoir. As we drove we gazed at the calm waters, and watched several people casually fishing and riding bicycles. Suddenly, the exploration urge began to twitch and in an instant we found ourselves tucked away inside a fine looking overflow tunnel. Inside it was reasonably windy and a fair amount of nature also decided to join us on our little expedition into the darkness. Both overflow systems are remarkable structures though, and were well worth a visit!
I'd say Megatron is a little easier to get into than this though.
