Abbeystead reservoir was built in 1853 to supply mills further downstream in dry weather and is a popular local beauty spot. The graceful horseshoe-shaped weir beside it, also known as Abbeystead waterfall, is particularly worth visiting in the spring, when the surrounding woods are carpeted with Bluebells, Marsh Marigolds and other plants of the woodland floor.
In autumn the turning foliage here is stunning, especially when rains on the fells above form a bow-shaped curtain of water flowing smoothly over the edge of the weir, as in the photo above, making for a very pleasant autumn stroll.
Edwardian Engineering
The weir itself is a small and beautiful feat of Edwardian engineering, designed by engineer James Mansergh for the Lancaster corporation, as were the elegantly constructed wrought iron bridges at the top of the dam and the charming octagonal valve house which sits in the river valley like a small castle keep.
When constructed the 14 metre dam held over 800 million litres of water behind it but over the decades this reservoir has mostly silted up, until recently it prevented fish from swimming any further up the river but a fish pass recently finished by the ribble trust has reopened the Upper Wyre and its gravel spawning beds to migratory fish such as Trout and Salmon.
Ways to the weir
One of the best routes to take to the weir is to park at Stoops bridge car park further up and walk down the side of Tarnbrook to where it meets the Wyre and then down to the reservoir that way. Another route takes you through Hinberry wood and you may be able to glimpse Abbeystead lodge, which has long been a favourite country retreat for the Queen and members of the royal family.
(Peter McDermott)
Whichever way you take this secluded and scenic corner of the Lancashire countryside is always worth a visit at any time of the year, listed below are a few walks around the area, if you have any you feel should be included why not comment with a link and I’ll add them to the list.
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Northwest Nature and History 
Beautiful autumnal colours.
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