Set among an outstanding landscape of schist tors, this large irrigation dam built in the early 1900s is a popular spot for fishing, canoeing and swimming, ice skating and walking.

Sorry, no boating is permitted. Manorburn Dam was Alexandra’s sole ice skating venue for many years until the Ice Inline Sports Complex was built in Molyneux Park. Today, typically in early July, the Manorburn is popular with ice skaters who still want a wilderness experience.

In summer the dam is a popular swimming spot particularly for youth who take delight in jumping off the central rock formation into the deep refreshing water below. Before you jump, make sure it’s safe. Check for any logs and jump well out from the edge.