The reservoir was created between 1876 and 1880 as a source of drinking water, primarily to serve the population of Doncaster to the east. In 1980 it was acquired by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council who . In 2006 it won a Green Flag Award for its green spaces.
The Lake
Local and national importance
Today the country park provides an important habitat for birds and other wildlife. Over 155 species of birds have been recorded as well as 20 species of mammals and 170 species of plants.It is popular with anglers (fly fishing) during the summer and walkers all year round. There are level footpaths that provide a circular route around the reservoir and these are suitable for buggies and wheelchairs
During spring and autumn it is an important migration stop-over for birds and during the winter months it holds a large population of wintering ducks, geese and swans.Two public bird viewing hides are available.
The country park covers an area of the reservoir itself covers an area of 35 acres. There are over 2 miles of circular footpaths.
