BBC HomeExplore the BBC

24 November 2009
Accessibility help
Text only
MidHistory

BBC Homepage
Wales Home

Wales SW Mid SE NE NW
»  

Contact Us

Like this page?
Send it to a friend!

 

The Elan Valley

Elan Valley

At the turn of the 20th Century, the face of the Elan Valley in Radnorshire changed for ever as work began on a project to create a series of dams supplying water to Birmingham. Around 100 people had to leave the area as homes, farms, a school and a church were demolished to make way for the new reservoirs. The Elan Valley Dams were officially opened on 21 July 1904 by King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra. To mark the centenary in 2004, local people organised a series of special events.

  • Check out our Rhayader Guide

  • Centenary Exhibition

    Step back in time to the days when the dam was being built

    Royal Ceremony

    Read about the grand opening of the dams by King Edward VII in 1904.

    Memories

    Local people recall how the building of the dam changed lives.

    Facts & Figures

    Some fascinating facts & figures about the Elan Valley Dam.

    Rhayader Guide

    More about the market town and 'the gateway' to the Elan Valley.

    The Lost Valleys

    Watch Betty Davies' mini film about the drowning of the valleys.

    Old Photos

    A photo tour of the Elan Valley today and yesterday.

    Nature Reserve

    The Elan Valley reserve has a wealth of walks and wildlife.

    In Pictures

    James McDarren's photos of the Elan Valley.

    My Elan Valley

    George Gallop on how he discovered the delights of The Elan Valley.

    have your say

    If you'd like to contribute to our Elan Valley pages in any way - with photos or memories, stories or suggestions - get in touch. We'd love to hear from you.


    more from this section

    Relive the series and tell us you or your family's recollections of living through World War Two.

    interact

    Tell us about a website
    Found a website we should know about? Send us the details.
    Email A Friend
    Click here to email this info to a friend

    related bbc.co.uk links

    related www links

    more from Mid Wales

    Entertainment

    Talgarth Festival
    Community Events

    From flower festivals to farmers market, find an event near you. More...

    Your Say

    Street Light
    Street Lights

    Should the lights be going out all over Mid Wales? Join the debate.

    Society & Culture

    National Assembly building
    Democracy Live

    Search, find and watch the politics that affects you in Mid Wales.




    About the BBC | Help | Terms of Use | Privacy & Cookies Policy