Combs Reservoir facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Combs Reservoir |
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 Combs Reservoir
Location in Derbyshire
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| Location | Derbyshire |
| Coordinates | 53°18′43″N 1°57′11″W / 53.31194°N 1.95306°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Meverill Brook and Pyegreave Brook |
| Primary outflows | Randall Carr Brook |
| Basin countries | United Kingdom |
| Max. length | 1 kilometre (0.6 mi) |
| Max. width | 0.5 kilometres (0.3 mi) |
| Water volume | 1,484,000 m3 (326,000,000 imp gal) |
Combs Reservoir is a large lake in the beautiful Peak District National Park in Derbyshire. It's near the village of Combs and the town of Chapel-en-le-Frith. This reservoir was built a long time ago to help canals carry goods. Today, it's a peaceful place known for its special wildlife and for sailing.
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Combs Reservoir: A Watery Wonder
Why Was Combs Reservoir Built?
Combs Reservoir was built in 1797. Its main job was to feed water into the Peak Forest Canal. This canal opened in 1800. Canals were like old highways for boats. They were very important for moving things around.
The canal helped transport goods. These included corn, cotton, and coal. It also connected to the Ashton Canal. This link was vital for limestone quarries nearby. In 1831, the Macclesfield Canal was finished. It joined the Peak Forest Canal at Marple.
More canals meant more water was needed. So, the dam at Combs Reservoir was made taller. This happened between 1834 and 1840. By the 1940s, canals were not used much for moving goods. Now, the Canal & River Trust owns the reservoir.
Where is Combs Reservoir Located?
Combs Reservoir sits in the Peak District National Park. It is about 1 kilometer east of Chapel-en-le-Frith. The village of Combs is to the south.
A railway line runs close by. It goes between the reservoir and Combs village. This line connects Buxton to Manchester.
Two hills overlook the reservoir. Eccles Pike is to the north. To the south is Castle Naze. Castle Naze is an ancient hillfort from the Iron Age. It is a protected historic site.
Home to Special Plants and Animals
Combs Reservoir is a special place for nature. It is called a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it has rare plants and animals.
It is very important for certain mosses and liverworts. These are tiny, simple plants. Some rare types found here include Physcomitrium sphaericum.
The area is also a great home for many birds. You might see the great crested grebe. Other birds include the little ringed plover, snipe, and lapwing.
Fun on the Water
Combs Reservoir is not just for nature. It's also a place for fun activities. Combs Sailing Club has been here since 1950. They use the reservoir for sailing lessons and races.
