Carr Mill Dam

Carr Mill Dam is Merseyside’s largest water-body which is of regional significance for powerboat racing, fishing and wildlife.

Formed by the damming of the Blackbrook valley, the Dam was used to power industrial mills of the Gerard Estate such as Carr Corn Mill. Carr Mill and the Blackbrook valley was an important area of early industrial development utilising water power to process iron. The water power was also used to grind corn.

Built in 1720, Carr Forges processed iron ore, extracted from the Parr area, into iron ingots, These were transported down the valley to Stanley Iron Slitting Mill where they were heated, rolled and “slit” into flat bar for use in the nail-making and later banding for barrels in the coopering trade.

Later enlarged, the Dam was used as a headwater for the Sankey (St Helens) Canal - England’s first canal of the industrial age dating from 1757.

Carr Mill Dam remained isolated within its rural setting until the construction of the East Lancashire Road immediately to the south of the Dam in 1934 However, it was in the 1960’s that the site became widely known. It was successfully developed into the famous Carr Mill Entertainment Park attracting thousands of visitors, young and old alike, for a fun day out on the lake.

The Public House and the attached hotel were developed at the south-west corner of the Dam in the late 1980’s. This provided modern day facilities for local residents and visitors.

Part of the Garswood Estate owned by the Gerard family, Carr Mill Dam has long been a popular spot for recreation. Over the years, the Dam has been boated upon, fished, swam in, picnicked beside, walked around and even skated upon in bitter winter months.

The circuit around the reservoir is a popular route for walkers and joggers taking around 45 minutes to complete. The scenic views and abundant wildlife make it an ideal place for a family stroll.

Lancashire Powerboat Racing Club Ltd and St Helens Angling Association have shared ownership of the sporting rights over the dam and St. Helens Angling Association has developed the site as a general coarse fishery with the principle fish being Roach Perch, Bream, Carp and Pike Competitions are run throughout the year.

Based at Carr Mill Dam since 1932, Lancashire Powerboat Racing Club Ltd occupies the much extended former fishing cottage on the east bank of the water. The club’s activities include powerboat racing and water skiing. Club and National Championship events are organised and held throughout the year.

Created: 1  January  2021  Edited: 29  November  2023