The pool is thought to be the result of excavations by tin miners,[2] and is either a flooded mine shaft, or a reservoir.

He was taking part in a routine training exercise and drowned while crossing the icy waters of the pool.

It was once believed to be bottomless, and according to local legend the parishioners of Walkhampton (or Sheepstor) brought up the bell ropes from the parish church to test its depth.

Even after tying the ropes together—a total length of over 500 feet[5]—and weighting the end, it was claimed they were still unable to reach the bottom.

[5] The pool was also said to be haunted during the Middle Ages by the Witch of Sheepstor, who gave people bad advice.