Sheffield had previously received its water supply from the Crookesmoor dams close to the town centre but by the mid-19th century these were becoming inadequate.

Strines was meant to be the final of the four reservoirs constructed; however, Dale Dike was not completed until 1875, having to be rebuilt after the failure of its dam wall caused the Great Sheffield Flood of 1864.

Today the reservoir is attended by Yorkshire Water staff who can gain vehicular access to the valve house through a locked gate and gravel track that runs along the top of the dam wall.

The reservoir's overflow is located at the south end of the dam wall and takes the form of a 25-foot-wide (7.6 m) concrete spillway which is crossed by a steel footbridge.

From the south walkers may gain access by using part of the Sheffield Country Walk which approaches from Sugworth Road.

The 45-foot-high (14 m) square tower with castellated top and flagpole was built from leftover stone when the nearby Bents House was constructed.

Today the interior is bare but it originally had wood panelling and a large furnished room at the top where the Boot family could enjoy the view.