The wind whispers secrets only Ballure Reservoir understands. It’s nestled south of Ramsey a picturesque spot surrounded by trees and bushes. Ballure Reservoir isn’t just a pretty face. It holds a fascinating history.
This tranquil scene hides a tale of ingenuity and adaptation. Before 1885 two smaller reservoirs stood here. They couldn’t keep up with the growing tourist influx. The Ramsey Water Works Company acted. Between 1881 and 1884 they built Ballure Reservoir. This impressive feat now holds approximately 18 million gallons of water. The original lower reservoir still exists a silent testament to the past. Imagine the workers toiling to create this haven.
Today Ballure Reservoir offers more than just water. It’s a haven for anglers. Fly fishing and spin-fishing are popular. The reservoir is regularly stocked with rainbow trout some weighing over 2 pounds. You might even catch a wild brown trout. But remember an Isle of Man Government Reservoir Licence is required. The east bank is your best bet for fishing. The west bank is impassable due to dense vegetation.
The walk down to Ballure Reservoir is a short ten minutes from the car park. The return trip uphill takes a bit longer about fifteen minutes. But the stunning views are worth it. The reservoir’s surface area covers 3.5 acres. Its maximum depth reaches an impressive 17 meters.
Ballure Reservoir also shines under the night sky. It’s one of 26 registered Dark Sky Discovery Sites on the Isle of Man. On clear nights you can see the Milky Way and even the Northern Lights. Interpretation boards help stargazers navigate the celestial wonders above. Ballure Reservoir a hidden gem offering fishing fantastic views and a window into the stars.