Whether you’re looking for a shorter stroll along Ladybower Reservoir or a huge hike up Kinder Scout, there isn’t a better city to be in than our beloved Sheffield for National Walking Month.
We’re absolutely spoiled to have The Peak District right on our doorstep, so here’s five walks you could get your fix with this upcoming Spring Bank Holiday Weekend, which is sweeping around on 23 till 25 May.
#1 Bamford Edge – 1.5-2 hours | 3-4km | Easy to Moderate
Starting at Heatherdeane Car Park next to Ladybower Reservoir, head past the public toilets and briefly follow alongside the A6013 before turning up the hill on the well-defined public path.
It’s best to follow a route, especially to find your way through the relatively thick woodland at the beginning of the trail.
But fear not, you’ll quickly emerge onto the open views of the ridge.
From there, walk along the ridge and enjoy the unbroken views across the Hope Valley, Derwent Valley and Ladybower Reservoir.
And it’s an out and back route – ideal for a relaxed early morning or evening walk.
#2 Edale Circular 1.5-2 hours | 5.5-6km | Easy to moderate
One of the most popular walks from Sheffield, this will take you from the picturesque village of Edale and along the base of Kinder Scout, the National Park’s highest peak.
From parking next to Edale’s village hall, head through the town and onto the path to go from Grindbrook Booth to Upper Booth.
The return of this circular route is nice and easy – just follow the paths alongside the Hope Valley railway line.
And if you want to put the Bank Holiday Monday to full use, there is an extended option covering several of the most popular spots in the Peak District.
The five to six hour, 20km hike will take you on a route that has Mam Tor, Lord’s Seat, Brown Knoll, Kinder Scout and Grindslow Knoll.
#3 Riverine Reservoir – 2.5-3 hours | 9-10km | Easy
One of the closest routes to Sheffield, this circular walk is only just beyond the Rivelin Valley and reachable on foot.
The slightly longer, but relatively simple path will take you past the Rivelin and Radmires reservoirs, including everything from woodland to stepping stones along the way.
Its the perfect route if you’re just starting out in some longer walks and want to get that little bit further out of Sheffield, but aren’t quite confident enough for the Peak District yet.
#4 Win Hill – 3.5-4 hours | 10.5-11km | Moderate
This walk is a perfect introduction to elevation gains. Beginning from the car park along Ashopton Road, head through the woodland until reaching the Ladybower Dam.
After crossing the River Derwent, ascend the 450m climb to Parkin Clough, through moorland and up Win Hill, where you can enjoy scenic views back across the valley.
There are a few variations of this route and it can be easily adapted to how adventurous you feel on the day.
Of course, always plan your routes before beginning your journey. If you do need help, dial 999 and ask for Police or Mountain Rescue.