The dam's architectural style is often described as 'Edwardian Baroque' due to its decorative bridge arches and ornamental towers.
It was specifically designed with a higher crest level to allow for future height extensions that were ultimately never implemented.
The water travels from the Elan Valley to Birmingham almost entirely by gravity through an aqueduct system with a very shallow gradient.
The masonry incorporates over 100,000 tons of local stone, much of it quarried on-site from the nearby hills.
The reservoir's total surface area reaches approximately 217 acres when fully impounded.
Craig Goch is the most visually recognizable of the Elan Valley dams, frequently appearing in film and television productions due to its aesthetic structure.
Craig Goch Dam is the uppermost reservoir of the Elan Valley chain in Powys, Wales, and serves as the primary catchment for the Birmingham Corporation Waterworks scheme. Completed in 1904, the masonry dam features a distinctive curved design topped with a series of arched bridge piers. It sits at an elevation of 316 meters above sea level, making it the highest of the six dams in the valley. The structure creates a reservoir with a capacity of approximately 9 million cubic meters. The dam's spillway is designed to create a cascading 'waterfall' effect when the water levels exceed capacity. It was constructed to supply fresh drinking water via gravity to Birmingham, located over 70 miles away. The masonry is predominantly local stone, designed to blend into the surrounding moorland landscape. The dam acts as a vital link in the Elan and Claerwen river systems.
From the grass verge on the B4518 road looking toward the bridge arches.
Parking is available at designated areas nearby, but spaces fill quickly during peak summer weekends.
The area is prone to rapid weather changes; bring waterproof layers even if the forecast looks clear.
There are no facilities or toilets at the dam itself, so use the visitor center amenities before driving up.
Attempting to climb or scale the masonry walls, which is strictly prohibited and dangerous.
Keep to marked paths to protect the fragile moorland environment and ensure livestock safety.
