Ladybower Reservoir - Peak District

The three linked reservoirs of Howden, Derwent and Ladybower cover 210 hectares to give the largest expanse of water in the Peak District. During the Second World War, Derwent reservoir was used by pilots of the 617 Squadron for practising the low-level flights needed for Operation Chastise (commonly known as the "Dam Busters" raids), due to its similarity to the German dams. Today there is a commemorative plaque to 617 Squadron on the dam, and one of the towers on the dam houses the Derwent Valley Museum. At times of exceptional drought, the remains of the submerged Ashopton village may be seen near the concrete A57 road bridge. The two giant plugholes drain away excess water to prevent damage to the dam.