What happened to Mardale Green?

Parliament authorised Manchester Corporation's Haweswater scheme in 1929. Mardale Green was demolished during the 1930s and submerged as the enlarged reservoir filled into the early 1940s.

Can you still see the ruins of Mardale Green?

Remains sometimes emerge during severe low-water periods. They have appeared on several occasions since the 1970s, including 1995, 2018 and later droughts, but visibility depends entirely on current water levels.

Can you walk all the way around Haweswater?

There is no easy, flat shoreline circuit. Walks from Mardale Head may involve rough ground, substantial ascent, exposed fell terrain and sections away from the water, so use a current map and plan for the conditions.

When is a Lake District Lake Not A Lake

Haweswater: The Reservoir Pretending to Be Ancient

Haweswater is a natural lake enlarged by a 1930s Manchester Corporation dam. Mardale Green was demolished and submerged as the reservoir filled into the early 1940s; low water has exposed remains several times since.

8 August 20267 min read