Ladybower Reservoir

Peak District virtual tour with a 360° panorama of 'Ladybower Reservoir' linked to a Google map. A Peak District attractions travel guide.

Ladybower Reservoir is a large 'Y' shaped reservoir near Hope Valley, close to Bamford village in the Peak District in Derbyshire, England. Ladybower Reservoir was built between 1935-43 for river control, flooding Ashopton village, and is fed by the River Ashop from the west and River Derwent from the north (via the Derwent Reservoir). It is about 3 miles long and very popular for trout fishing.

Ladybower Reservior is most famous as the practice site used by 617 Squadron, the 'Dambusters' in preparation for the bouncing bomb raids on the Ruhr dams in Germany during WWII. A small visitor centre at Derwent Dam shows video footage and memorabilia of their mission.

Today Ladybower Reservoir is popular for walking, cycling and fishing. There are numerous walks in the area, including Win Hill and Snake Pass.

Ladybower Reservoir is about 12 miles west of Sheffield on the A57 and B6013.