Harrington Nature Reserve

About

Harrington Nature Reserve is one of two Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) in the Workington area and is an area of land protected for its contribution to wildlife, geology, education and public enjoyment.

The reservoir, or the Rezzer as it is locally known, was constructed in 1863 to supply water for nearby iron works. Between the 1880s and 1930s it was used as a boating lake before being left to nature and it was declared an LNR in 1993.

The man-made reservoir itself forms a relatively small part of the reserve, which also includes extensive willow scrub, two meadows and riverine woodland.

A network of paths, steps and bridges, with seating and viewpoints located at various resting points, means the reserve can be explored and enjoyed by the local community. The nature reserve itself is pram accessible with wide, tarmac paths. However, the woodland walk close to Eller Beck is NOT pram accessible, this path can get narrow and wet at times. 

There are many routes that you are able to walk whilst visiting Harrington Nature Reserve and the footpaths are easy to follow. An example would be to enter the reserve by the main entrance opposite St Mary’s RC School, cross the bridge and turn right down a gentle graded path. Here you will be able to follow the path around the park, then take the path up towards the reservoir. Keeping the reservoir on your left hand side as you walk, follow Eller Beck upstream where you will eventually enter some woodlands. Please note this woodland path can get bumpy and this section is not pram accessible. The rest of the walk is accessible for pushchairs.