Why was the village of Derwent flooded?

Derwent was flooded between 1935 and 1943 to create the Ladybower Reservoir, supplying water to growing cities in the English Midlands.

When did Derwent village last resurface?

Derwent last resurfaced significantly in 2022 due to dry weather, with parts of the village, including the church, becoming visible.

What can be seen when Derwent village reappears?

When Derwent reappears, visitors can see remnants of cottage walls, a church, a stone fireplace, and debris from a small bridge.

Home / Environment / Lost Village Re-emerges from Lake

Lost Village Re-emerges from Lake

13 Jan

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Summary

Derwent village, submerged in 1943 for water supply, periodically resurfaces.
Dry summers in 2018 and 2022 revealed church ruins and cottage remnants.
The village now lies beneath Ladybower Reservoir, serving Derby, Sheffield, and Nottingham.

Derwent, a village nestled in Derbyshire's Peak District, was purposefully flooded between 1935 and 1943 to establish the Ladybower Reservoir. This act submerged the community, including its school, church, and manor house, displacing around 50 residents.

The reservoir, crucial for supplying water to Derby, Sheffield, and Nottingham, holds approximately 27,869 mega litres. Despite its vital role, Derwent has a peculiar habit of re-emerging. Exceptionally dry summers, such as in 2018 and 2022, drastically lowered water levels, revealing the village's former structures.

During these resurfacings, remnants like the church ruins, cottage doorways, and even a stone fireplace have become visible. The village's reappearance continues to draw attention, offering a unique glimpse into a community lost beneath the water.