Walks in Ecclesall
From easy city strolls to challenging trails, discover the best of Ecclesall on foot.
Walk: Blue Loop Sheffield Walk
An 8-mile waterside walk taking in both the River Don and Sheffield & Tinsley Canal. The Route what3words for start point: ///firms.birds.sadly Start Point: Blonk Street, Sheffield Finish Point: Victoria Quays, Sheffield Distance: 8.3 Miles GPX Route Map blueloopsheffieldDownload Walk Description Enjoy a long circular walk taking in the industrial heritage and waterways of Sheffield. You begin this walk on the River Don and pass all 5 weirs of the river. The weirs were built to as part of Sheffield industrial evolution. When you reach Meadowhall, you will leave the River Don, and pick up the Sheffield and Tinsley Canal. Once on the towpath you will pass a number of locks and Tinsley Marina. Tinsley Marina came to fame in 1997 by starring in the opening scenes of The Full Monty. As you start heading back into the city centre look out for the street art that has been created. The art represents the range of people that make up the local community and their stories. Due to Sheffield’s industrial past the waterways have historically been badly polluted. Today, the water quality is much improved, and the area has become a haven for wildlife. Look out for butterflies, kingfishers, herons, salmon and otters on your walk. If you are looking for a shorter version, the walk can be broken down into smaller circular sections.
Walk: Sheffield Canal
A fabulous walk through Sheffield's industrial heritage. The Route what3words for start point: ///cloud.equal.sing Start Point: Sheffield Canal Basin Finish Point: Tinsley Distance: 4 Miles GPX Route Map sheffield-canalDownload Walk Description The walk starts at the Sheffield Canal basin and heads out towards Tinsley whilst passing through the centre of the South Yorkshire's industrial heritage. Take in the amazing work of engineering as you pass by locks, industrial building and learn about the culture of the canal. The start point was also filmed as part of the classic Yorkshire film, The Full Monty.
Five Weirs Walk - Sheffield City Centre to Meadowhall
Following national cycle route 6 this is a lovely walk through the city of Sheffield following the River Don to Meadowhall. The Route what3words for start point: ///cling.couches.oiled Start Point: Lady's Bridge Finish Point: Meadowhall Distance: 6 miles GPX Route Map fiveweirswalkDownload Walk Description Winding along National Cycle Route 6, this captivating walk traces the edges of the River Don, leading you from the heart of Sheffield to the bustling Meadowhall area. As you journey along this urban path, you'll not only delight in the serenity of the riverside but also delve into Sheffield's rich industrial history. Ideal for people of all ages, this easy and accessible trail perfectly balances natural beauty with historical discovery. Begin at Lady's Bridge: The Gateway to Adventure Your journey kicks off at Lady's Bridge—a charming spot where you can grab a coffee to accompany your walk. This provides an opportunity to simply soak in the atmosphere, watching as life in Sheffield bustles around you. As you sip your coffee, the gentle sounds of the River Don offer a soothing backdrop, setting the tone for the tranquil experience ahead. Strolling by the River Don: Nature Meets Industry As you commence your walk along the well-maintained National Cycle Route 6, the slow-paced River Don will be your constant companion. Its calm waters flow parallel to the route, providing a harmonious soundtrack to your explorations. Yet the river is more than just a scenic spectacle; it's a symbol of Sheffield's industrial heritage, having played a crucial role in powering mills and transporting goods during the Industrial Revolution. Discover Sheffield’s Industrial Past This walk is akin to a live museum exhibit. Along the way, you'll find various markers and installations that shed light on Sheffield's vibrant industrial history. From steelworks to old factories, the trail offers a unique window into the city's past life as an industrial powerhouse. While the walk is fundamentally leisurely, the educational components make it intellectually stimulating, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the area's historical importance. Meadowhall: A Perfect Mid-Point Stop Midway through your expedition, you'll reach Meadowhall—a bustling hub replete with shops, eateries, and attractions. It's the perfect spot to pause and refuel, perhaps stocking up for a packed lunch for the journey back. With its wide array of dining options, Meadowhall adds a touch of modernity to your historical walk, making it a well-rounded experience. Accessibility and Inclusivity Designed to be an accessible adventure, this route accommodates walkers of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a family with young children in tow, the flat and well-maintained path ensures everyone can participate in and enjoy this historical tour. Conclusion The River Don Promenade is not just a walk; it's a narrated experience that combines the beauty of nature with the allure of history. From the coffee-scented air at Lady's Bridge to the bustling energy at Meadowhall, this walk provides a fulfilling and multifaceted experience, making it a must-do for anyone interested in exploring Sheffield's past and present.
Walk: Sheffield Canalside Street Art Trail
A towpath walk taking you on a street art trail along the Sheffield and Tinsley Canal. The Route what3words for start point: ///gosh.pits.grain Start / Finish Point: Victoria Quays, Sheffield, S2 5SY Distance: 2.75 Miles GPX Route Map sheffieldstreetartDownload Walk Description Starting at Victoria Quays, the canal basin at the start of the Sheffield and Tinsley Canal, this walk follows the towpath and takes you on our street art trail. Victoria Quays was built between 1816 – 1819 to bring the canal to the city and was used as a cargo port until 1970. It then fell into disrepair but now the warehouses and terraces of coal merchant offices have been restored and redeveloped into cafes, bars, offices, and a hotel so a perfect start and end point to the walk. Cross the canal in Victoria Quays and pick up the towpath to follow the canal and street art trail. The street art trail started in 2019 as part of the Sheffield & Tinsley 200th anniversary celebrations. Funding from players of the People’s Postcode Lottery gave us the opportunity to commission a local arts collective, Concrete Canvas, who brought together the artists and planned the creation of the pieces. The first pieces you will see as you leave Victoria Quays have been created by local artist Affix. Continue heading up the canal towards Cadman Street where you will find some more nature related installations. Once you have pasted Cadman Street you will see the street art gallery covering a long wall on the side of the canal. These pieces were painted by 13 street artists during the 2019 Sheffield Waterfront Festival. Carry on along the canal towpath and you will pass a couple art installations. You will pass the Olympic Legacy Park and then cross the canal to follow the towpath to Tinsley Marina. At this point you can either return to Victoria Quays by foot, pick up the tram or extend your walk to continue along the towpath to Meadowhall and beyond.
Lady Canning's Plantation Walk
A woodland walk with plenty of trails that are ideal with four legged friends. The Route what3words for start point: ///stud.closer.moon Start Point: Ringinglow Finish Point: Ringinglow Distance: 2 Miles GPX Route Map lady-cannings-plantationDownload Walk Description Just to the south West of Sheffield is this fabulous woodland that is ideal for a woodland walk. There are multiple walks and trails to follow and this is just perfect for dog walkers. I nice way to get away from the city life and stretch those legs especially the four legged variety. Food afterwards Norfolk Arms, Ringinglow.
Walk: Endcliffe Park
A popular local park with lots of different trails and paths to try. Ideal for a Sunday morning stroll with the family before a hearty lunch. The Route what3words for start point: ///deflection.meant.loud Start Point: Endcliffe Park Finish Point: Endcliffe Park Distance: 2 Miles GPX Route Map endcliffe-parkDownload Walk Description Porter Brook is the centrepiece of this park and the paths follow it as it wanders through the park. There are lovely dams, waterfalls and rock pools and all of these attract local wildlife. This makes this a wonderful urban location for some bird spotting for amateurs and local children. Also close by are the Botanical gardens for a longer stroll.
Walk: Ecclesall Woods
A mix of different trails and paths this area of Sheffield is famous for it's diversity and beauty. Pick one of many routes to wander through the beautiful woodland. The Route what3words for start point: ///shrimp.action.design Start Point: Abbeydale Finish Point: Abbeydale Distance: 3 Miles GPX Route Map ecclesall-woodsDownload Walk Description Wander through the woodland and marvel at the stunning bluebells in in April and May as whilst stumbling upon the various streams and inlets. There are lovely cafes available to keep the kids fuelled or a nice coffee to pick yourself up so make sure you try them before you leave. There are lots of different paths to explore each with little hidden away places to discover
Walk: Rivelin Valley Nature Trail
The Rivelin valley is a beautiful, hidden away gen in South Yorkshire and this walk is a fabulous stroll through it's landscape. The Route what3words for start point: ///unit.hedge.laser Start Point: Malin Bridge / Walkley Bank Tilt car park, Rivelin Valley Rd, Walkley, Sheffield S6 5FY Finish Point: Revlin Mill Bridge Distance: 2 Miles GPX Route Map rivelin-valley-nature-trailDownload Walk Description This walk contains a series of picturesque waterways, ponds and even some stepping stones for the kids (young and old). The industrial heritage of the area is featured through the former milling building you'll see on the way. There is a spacious car park, café and toilets at the starting point of the walk.