Ulster
Silent Valley Reservoir
The Silent Valley Reservoir is a reservoir located in the Mourne Mountains near Kilkeel, County Down in Northern Ireland. It supplies most of the water for County Down, surrounding counties and most of Belfast. It is owned and maintained by Northern Ireland Water Limited.
Location
About
Silent Valley Reservoir, located in the Mourne Mountains of Northern Ireland, is a stunning destination for tourists seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This man-made lake offers visitors a serene and tranquil environment surrounded by lush greenery, rugged mountains, and picturesque landscapes. Here’s what you need to know about this natural wonder and why it should be on your must-visit list.
History of Silent Valley Reservoir
Silent Valley Reservoir was built in the 1920s to provide a reliable supply of water to the city of Belfast. The area was selected because of its high rainfall and the fact that it was relatively untouched by industry. The reservoir was constructed using a dam built from granite and concrete, which still stands today.
The lake is approximately 2.5 miles long and is surrounded by the Mourne Mountains, which provide a breathtaking backdrop to the serene waters. The area around the reservoir was designated as a conservation area in 1965, to protect the natural beauty of the region.
Things to do at Silent Valley Reservoir
One of the main attractions at Silent Valley Reservoir is the scenic walk around the lake, which offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. The walk is approximately 3.5 miles long and takes around two hours to complete. It’s a relatively easy walk, suitable for families with young children and individuals of all fitness levels.
Another popular activity at the reservoir is fishing. The lake is stocked with brown trout, and visitors can obtain permits to fish in the lake. There are also several picnic areas around the reservoir where visitors can enjoy a leisurely lunch while taking in the stunning views.
For those interested in learning more about the history and construction of the reservoir, there is a visitor centre on site that offers guided tours. The centre provides visitors with an insight into the planning and construction of the reservoir and its importance to the city of Belfast.
Getting to Silent Valley Reservoir
Silent Valley Reservoir is located approximately 30 miles south of Belfast, and is easily accessible by car. From Belfast, visitors can take the A24 towards Newcastle, then follow the signs for Silent Valley. There is ample parking available at the reservoir, and the visitor centre is a short walk from the car park.
Conclusion
Silent Valley Reservoir is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Northern Ireland. With stunning views of the Mourne Mountains and tranquil waters, this man-made lake offers visitors a serene environment that is perfect for a leisurely walk, picnic, or fishing trip. With easy access from Belfast, there’s no excuse not to add Silent Valley Reservoir to your itinerary.
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Things to do nearby
Silent Valley Reservoir is a stunning man-made lake situated in the Mourne Mountains of Northern Ireland. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. From hiking and cycling to fishing and bird watching, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we will explore some of the best places and things to do nearby Silent Valley Reservoir from a tourist perspective.
1. Hiking and Walking Trails
The Mourne Mountains are known for their breathtaking scenery, and the Silent Valley Reservoir offers some of the best hiking and walking trails in the area. One of the most popular routes is the Mourne Way, a 26-mile long-distance trail that takes you through the heart of the Mournes, offering stunning views of the reservoir and the surrounding mountains. For those who prefer shorter walks, there are also a number of shorter trails around the reservoir, including the Waterfall Walk and the Ridge Trail.
2. Cycling
Cycling is another popular activity in the area, with a number of routes available for all levels of cyclists. The Mourne Cycle Tour takes you through the Mournes, offering some challenging climbs and stunning views. For those who prefer a more leisurely ride, the Carlingford Lough Greenway is a 7.5-mile traffic-free cycle route that takes you along the coast from Newry to Carlingford, passing through some beautiful scenery along the way.
3. Fishing
Silent Valley Reservoir is a popular destination for fishing, with the lake being stocked with rainbow and brown trout. A valid fishing license is required, and there are a number of fishing permits available for purchase from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency. Fishing boats can also be hired from the reservoir.
4. Bird Watching
The Mournes are home to a wide range of bird species, making it a popular destination for bird watchers. The Silent Valley Reservoir is particularly good for spotting buzzards, kestrels, and peregrine falcons, as well as a variety of waterfowl such as swans and ducks.
5. Game of Thrones Filming Locations
Fans of the hit TV show Game of Thrones will be pleased to know that a number of filming locations are located near Silent Valley Reservoir. Tollymore Forest Park, which was used as the location for the Haunted Forest in Season One, is just a short drive away, as is Castle Ward, which was used as the location for Winterfell.
6. Newcastle
The town of Newcastle is located just a short drive from the Silent Valley Reservoir, and is well worth a visit. The town is home to a beautiful beach, as well as a wide range of shops, restaurants, and pubs. It is also home to the famous Royal County Down Golf Club, which is considered one of the best golf courses in the world.
7. Castlewellan Forest Park
Castlewellan Forest Park is another popular attraction in the area, offering a range of outdoor activities including hiking, cycling, and fishing. The park is home to a beautiful lake, as well as a Victorian Castle which now houses a youth hostel.
In conclusion, the Silent Valley Reservoir and the surrounding area offer a wide range of activities and attractions for tourists. Whether you enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing, bird watching, or just soaking up the stunning scenery, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful part of Northern Ireland.