Ladybower Reservoir
A vast Peak District reservoir famous for its dramatic ‘plugholes’, drowned villages and Dambusters history, surrounded by moorland walks and cycling trails.
Ladybower Reservoir, the largest of three in the Upper Derwent Valley, is a striking Y-shaped lake in the Peak District National Park. Surrounded by moorland, woodland and dramatic edges, it offers scenic walks, cycling, fishing and boating. Its famous ‘plugholes’ – huge bellmouth spillways – create a mesmerising vortex when water levels are high. The reservoir also holds poignant history, created by flooding the villages of Derwent and Ashopton, and was used as a practice site for the Dambusters in World War II.
A brief summary to Ladybower Reservoir
- Ladybower Reservoir, Peak District National Park,, Hope Valley, Hope Valley, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit after a period of heavy rain or snowmelt to see the plugholes in full flow; during dry spells they may be dry or only trickling.
- Start at Fairholmes Visitor Centre for toilets, food, bike hire and information; arrive early in peak season to secure parking.
- Combine a reservoir walk with a climb up Bamford Edge or Win Hill for panoramic views over the Upper Derwent Valley.
- Look out for the remains of the drowned villages of Derwent and Ashopton when water levels are very low, and follow the ‘Lost Village Trail’ for historical context.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera for the dramatic plugholes, moorland scenery and reflections on the water.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
From Sheffield or Manchester, take the A57 Snake Pass into the Peak District and follow signs for Ladybower Reservoir. Parking is available at Fairholmes Visitor Centre and Heatherdene car park, with a small fee for all-day use. Roads can be narrow and busy in peak season, so allow extra time.
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Public Transport
Take a train to Sheffield or Manchester, then a local bus to the village of Bamford. From Bamford, it’s a 30–40 minute walk along the A6013 and A57 to the reservoir and Fairholmes Visitor Centre. Services are infrequent, so check timetables in advance.
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Walking
From Bamford village, follow the signed footpaths along the A6013 and A57 for about 3 km to Fairholmes Visitor Centre. The route is mostly on quiet roads and paths, with some elevation gain, and takes roughly 40–50 minutes for a reasonably fit walker.
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Cycling
From Bamford or nearby villages, cycle along the A6013 and A57 to Fairholmes Visitor Centre. The route includes some busy sections and climbs, so it’s best suited to confident cyclists. Bike hire is available at Fairholmes for those without their own.
Ladybower Reservoir location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ladybower Reservoir
Engineering and the ‘Plugholes’
Ladybower Reservoir is a major feat of 20th-century civil engineering, built between 1935 and 1943 to supply water to the East Midlands. Its most eye-catching feature is the pair of massive bellmouth spillways, commonly known as the ‘plugholes’. Each is around 24 metres in diameter and drops about 20 metres, designed to safely channel excess water from the reservoir through tunnels into the River Derwent. When the reservoir is full, especially after heavy rain or snowmelt, water spirals dramatically into these concrete funnels, creating a powerful vortex that draws visitors from across the region. These spillways are not just functional; they have become a focal point of local interest and a popular photo opportunity. The sight of water cascading into the plugholes is most impressive in the wetter months, though even when dry they remain an impressive example of industrial design. The dam itself is a clay-cored earth embankment, distinct from the masonry dams of the older Howden and Derwent reservoirs upstream.History Beneath the Water
The creation of Ladybower Reservoir required the flooding of the villages of Derwent and Ashopton, a decision that transformed the landscape and displaced communities. Derwent Woodlands church and Derwent Hall once stood in what is now the reservoir’s basin, and during periods of exceptionally low water, the remains of Derwent village can sometimes be glimpsed. The story of these ‘drowned villages’ adds a poignant, almost ghostly layer to the area, inviting reflection on the trade-offs between progress and heritage. The reservoir also played a role in World War II, serving as a practice site for the famous Dambusters (617 Squadron), who tested their bouncing bomb techniques on the nearby Derwent Dam. This wartime legacy is woven into the identity of the Upper Derwent Valley, making the area not just a place of natural beauty but also of historical significance.Exploring the Reservoir and Surrounds
Today, Ladybower Reservoir is a hub for outdoor recreation in the Peak District. A well-maintained network of paths circles the reservoir, offering walks of varying lengths and difficulty, from gentle strolls suitable for families to longer hikes up to Bamford Edge or Win Hill for panoramic views. The perimeter route is relatively flat and accessible, making it ideal for walkers, runners and those with pushchairs or mobility aids. Cycling is also popular, with traffic-free sections and bike hire available at Fairholmes Visitor Centre. Anglers come for fly fishing in the reservoir’s clear waters, while kayakers, canoeists and paddleboarders enjoy the calm surface. Birdwatchers find rich pickings here too, with waterfowl on the reservoir and raptors soaring over the surrounding moorland.Visitor Experience and Practicalities
The reservoir is open year-round and free to access, though parking at the main car parks, such as Fairholmes and Heatherdene, is chargeable. Fairholmes Visitor Centre, managed by the Peak District National Park Authority, provides toilets, a takeaway kiosk, information boards and a small gift shop, making it a convenient starting point for most visits. The area is busiest in spring and summer, when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its greenest, but autumn brings stunning colours and winter offers a quieter, more atmospheric experience. The plugholes are most dramatic after prolonged wet weather, so checking recent conditions can help plan a visit for the best spectacle. Whether you’re here for a short walk, a full circuit, or simply to stand by the dam and watch the water swirl into the plugholes, Ladybower Reservoir offers a powerful blend of nature, engineering and history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bamford Edge
0.8 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Carl Wark
7.1 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Baslow Edge
12.4 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
The Endcliffe Campus
12.7 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Lost & Found Sheffield
13.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
13.9 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Friesday Belgian Fries
13.9 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Weston Park
14.0 km
Explore Weston Park in Sheffield: A lush green oasis filled with gardens, history, and cultural attractions for a delightful day out.
Arts Tower
14.1 km
Discover the Arts Tower in Sheffield: A modernist architectural marvel and cultural hub offering panoramic city views and vibrant arts experiences.
Devonshire Quarter
14.7 km
Sheffield's indie heart: wander Division Street's boutiques, sip in historic pubs, and unwind on Devonshire Green in this urban village gem.
Birchen Edge
14.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and exhilarating adventures at Birchen Edge, a premier viewpoint in the scenic Peak District.
Crack The Code Escape Rooms Sheffield
15.0 km
Experience the thrill of teamwork and mystery at Crack The Code Escape Rooms in Sheffield, where every game unlocks an adventure.
Sheffield War Memorial
15.1 km
A solemn and iconic Grade II* listed cenotaph in Sheffield city centre, honoring the city's wartime sacrifices with striking sculptures and historic symbolism.
The River Don Engine
15.2 km
Explore the River Don Engine in Sheffield, a fascinating museum celebrating the city's industrial heritage and engineering marvels.
Kelham Island Walks
15.2 km
Discover Kelham Island, Sheffield’s historic steelmaking heart transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, craft beer, and urban charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stepping Stones
4.2 km
A tranquil natural river crossing in Watford offering scenic walks and gentle adventure for all ages.
Castleton
5.7 km
Discover Castleton, Hope Valley’s charming village famed for ancient castles, unique Blue John caverns, and stunning Peak District landscapes.
Castleton Visitor Centre
5.8 km
Your welcoming gateway to Castleton’s history, nature, and the Peak District’s breathtaking landscapes.
Peveril Castle
6.0 km
Explore the atmospheric Norman ruins of Peveril Castle, crowned by sweeping views over Castleton and the Peak District’s scenic valleys.
Peak Cavern
6.0 km
Explore Britain’s largest natural cave entrance and historic rope-making cavern beneath Castleton’s iconic cliffs.
Cave Dale
6.1 km
Explore the rugged limestone valley of Cave Dale, where dramatic cliffs frame historic Peveril Castle in the heart of the Peak District.
Derwent Reservoir
6.6 km
Historic reservoir and dam in Peak District with stunning views, scenic walks, and wartime heritage near Hope Valley.
Speedwell Cavern
6.8 km
Explore a historic lead mine on a unique underground boat tour beneath the Peak District’s dramatic Winnats Pass.
Treak Cliff Cavern
6.9 km
Explore a working Blue John stone mine with stunning geological formations and rare minerals in the Peak District.
Dark Peak Estate
7.2 km
Explore the wild moorlands and gritstone edges of the Dark Peak Estate, a dramatic upland landscape in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Winnats Pass
7.3 km
Experience the breathtaking limestone gorge of Winnats Pass, a scenic and historic route through the heart of Hope Valley’s Peak District.
Blue John Cavern
7.3 km
Discover Britain’s rare Blue John stone in Castleton’s spectacular limestone caves, where history and geology intertwine beneath the Peak District.
Lawrencefield
7.4 km
Dramatic gritstone cliffs and tranquil ponds in the heart of the Peak District's climbing country.
Mam Tor
7.6 km
Discover Mam Tor, the iconic 'Mother Hill' of the Peak District, offering ancient history, dramatic landslips, and panoramic views over Hope Valley.
Edale
7.8 km
Edale, nestled in Hope Valley, is the Peak District’s scenic gateway and starting point of the iconic Pennine Way, offering stunning hiking and rich heritage.
Essential places to dine
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn
5.5 km
Historic village inn and pub in Castleton offering cozy rooms, hearty English fare, and a warm welcome in the heart of the Peak District.
Ye Olde Nags Head
5.7 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Castleton offering cozy pub vibes, hearty British fare, and a lively community atmosphere.
1530 The Restaurant
5.7 km
Charming Italian restaurant in Castleton offering fresh homemade dishes and vegan options in a cozy historic setting within the Peak District.
The Anchor Inn
10.1 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
The Merchant's Yard
10.8 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
Derbyshire Eats
10.8 km
Experience refined dining and bespoke catering excellence in the charming village of Tideswell at Derbyshire Eats.
The Horse & Jockey
11.2 km
A cozy, traditional village pub and B&B in Tideswell offering hearty meals, warm fires, and comfortable rooms in the Peak District.
Rafters Restaurant
11.5 km
Discover Sheffield’s refined modern British dining at Rafters, where rustic charm meets innovative flavors and impeccable service.
Borgo Antica Osteria
11.7 km
Experience authentic Italian hospitality and cuisine in Sheffield’s warm and welcoming Borgo Antica Osteria.
The Eating House
11.9 km
A cozy café nestled in Derbyshire Craft Centre offering fresh, inclusive menus and a warm community atmosphere in Hope Valley.
Urban Choola
12.6 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with a modern twist at Urban Choola, Sheffield’s vibrant dining destination on Ecclesall Road.
La Luna Restaurant
12.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and a warm BYO atmosphere await you at La Luna on Sheffield’s vibrant Ecclesall Road.
Olive
12.7 km
Mediterranean-inspired dining with Italian and Moroccan flair, set in a warm, rustic Sheffield venue with artistic charm and attentive service.
NO NAME
12.9 km
An intimate, creative bistro in Sheffield’s vibrant Crookes suburb offering bold flavors, cozy vibes, and BYOB dining Wednesday to Saturday evenings.
Brocco Kitchen
13.0 km
Elegant Nordic-inspired dining in a charming Edwardian villa, offering fresh, seasonal dishes in Sheffield’s peaceful Brocco Bank neighborhood.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Outside.co.uk
4.9 km
Your essential outdoor clothing and equipment shop in Hathersage, offering expert gear and a cozy café for Peak District adventurers.
Pookie - Wookie Ltd
5.1 km
Handcrafted artisan ceramics by a mother-daughter duo in the scenic Hope Valley, perfect for unique and meaningful gifts.
The Causeway Shop
5.6 km
Discover unique gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Castleton’s picturesque Hope Valley at The Causeway Shop.
The Original Blue John Craft Shop
5.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted Blue John jewellery and gifts in Castleton’s charming craft shop, celebrating Derbyshire’s rare gemstone heritage.
The Old Barn
5.8 km
A practical outdoor and gift shop in Castleton’s Market Place, perfect for stocking up before exploring the Peak District’s hills and caves.
The Outdoor Shop
5.9 km
Your essential outfitter for quality outdoor gear and clothing in Hope Valley, perfect for Peak District adventures.
Delightful Living
9.1 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
Antique and Unique
10.5 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
Derbyshire Gift Centre
11.9 km
A charming family-run gift shop and café in Hope Valley offering seasonal treasures and homemade delights in the Peak District.
Gifted
12.5 km
Discover Sheffield's premier spot for unique gifts and artisanal treasures on vibrant Ecclesall Road South—perfect for thoughtful finds.
The Village Store
12.6 km
Discover The Village Store in Sheffield: Your go-to convenience stop for snacks, drinks, and local treats in a cozy atmosphere.
Space 205
12.8 km
Whimsical gifts, decadent chocolates, sparkling jewelry, and expert framing in Sheffield's Crookes—a treasure trove of creative delights awaits.
The Stock Exchange
13.0 km
A compact, curated women's boutique in Hunters Bar offering distinctive clothing and accessories in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
Ringinglow Toys and Gifts
13.3 km
Explore the enchanting world of Ringinglow Toys and Gifts, where creativity and fun come together in Sheffield's beautiful Botanical Gardens.
Trove
13.4 km
Uncover Sheffield's creative treasures at Trove, where local artistry and quirky gifts await on Sharrow Vale Road's charming stretch.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ladybower Inn
1.1 km
A cozy 3-star inn in Hope Valley offering hearty pub meals, friendly hospitality, and scenic access to Ladybower Reservoir and Peak District trails.
Bulls Head, Castleton
5.7 km
Historic pub and cozy inn in Castleton offering traditional British fare, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Peak District.
The Castle
5.8 km
A historic pub in Castleton offering hearty British fare, scenic views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Hope Valley.
The George
5.8 km
Traditional British charm meets cozy comfort in Castleton’s welcoming pub with rooms, great food, and scenic Hope Valley views.
The Barrel Inn
7.6 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Rambler Inn
7.8 km
Cozy stone-built pub and inn in Edale, offering hearty fare, local ales, and a warm welcome for Peak District hikers.
The Old Nags Head
7.9 km
Historic 16th-century country pub at the start of the Pennine Way, offering rustic charm, real ales, and hearty fare in Edale’s scenic Peak District.
The Bull at Foolow
8.8 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
The George Inn
10.9 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Star Inn
10.9 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
Red Lion Inn
11.0 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
The Eyre Arms
11.3 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
Wildcard Bar and Grill
12.6 km
Sheffield's ultimate sports bar: 40+ screens, giant Jumbotron, epic American grill, shuffleboard, pool, and cocktails in luxury style.
The Dark Horse Bar
12.6 km
Sheffield's cozy fusion of pub warmth, cocktail flair, and burger bliss on vibrant Ecclesall Road—perfect for craft drinks and casual nights out.
The Edge Bar
12.7 km
Vibrant University of Sheffield bar buzzing with pub grub, craft drinks, pool, darts, quizzes, and live sports in the heart of student residences.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Great Rocks Social Club
14.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
Corporation
14.8 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Fez Sheffield
14.8 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
14.9 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
Dempseys Bar and Club
14.9 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
15.0 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Viper Rooms
15.0 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
Al Ahsa Night Club
15.0 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Night Kitchen
15.0 km
Dive into Sheffield's industrial heartbeat at The Night Kitchen, where former cutlery factory walls pulse with electronic beats until dawn in a raw, inclusive nightlife haven.
Code Sheffield
15.2 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
Tank
15.5 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
The Leadmill
15.6 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Temple Sheffield
15.6 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Plot 22
15.8 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Level 2
18.9 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
