Reservoir, Aldenham Country Park

Took a trip to Aldenham Country Park today and walked around the reservoir - a lovely walk that takes you through woods, then follows a path that runs alongside the reservoir and past the old pumping station.

Originally, the reservoir totalled 65 acres, but it was reduced to 55 acres after repairs were needed to the dam. It was built by the Grand Union Canal Company to control water levels in the River Colne following the construction of the Grand Union Canal. It was dug by hand by French prisoners of war between 1795 and 1797. It stopped being used for drinking water in 1973 and is now used for recreational purposes.

This is a view across the reservoir, with the Aldenahm Sailing Club in the distance. This photo was taken with a Big Stopper on a twenty second exposure.