Emma Bradshaw
Barnell Reservoir (closed)
This closed reserve features broadleaved woodland and ferns surrounding a redundant reservoir. An area rich in birds, bats and invertebrates.
Location
Patrick Road
Know before you go
Size
2 hectares
Access
No access to this closed site
Dogs
No dogs permitted
When to visit
Opening times
Closed to the publicBest time to visit
ClosedAbout the reserve
Barnell reservoir was constructed in the 1880's as a water supply for Peel and used until the late 1940's. Most of the reservoir is surrounded by woodland where luxuriant ferns thrive in the damp conditions and primroses and bluebells are a feature in the spring. A small area of the dam wall is a wildflower-rich grassland.
Management: Nature can take its course in the woodland whilst the vegetation on the reservoir dam embankment is cut annually to encourage a range of grassland and wetland plants and prevent scrub taking over.