The best walks and hikes around Bradfield

Yes, the area is great for families. The Damflask Reservoir loop from Low Bradfield is a popular choice. It's a mostly flat, 3.9-mile (6.3 km) path around the water's edge, making it accessible for a wide range of abilities.

Dogs are welcome on many trails, but it's important to be mindful of the environment. The area includes open moorland and farmland, so you may encounter livestock. Always keep your dog under close control, and on a lead where required by signage, especially during bird nesting season (typically March to July).

Yes, many of the most popular routes are circular, starting and finishing in convenient locations like Low Bradfield. These loops often take you around the scenic reservoirs or up into the hills and back, which makes planning your day straightforward.

Many walks can be combined with a pub visit. A great option is the Agden Reservoir loop via Church of St. Nicholas. This route takes you up into High Bradfield, where you can find traditional pubs like The Old Horns Inn, which is well-regarded for its fantastic views over the valley.

There are several small car parks available, though they can fill up quickly on weekends. You can find parking in Low Bradfield, which is a common starting point for many reservoir walks. Additional parking is often available near the various reservoirs, such as Damflask and Agden. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.

Yes, Bradfield is accessible by bus from Sheffield. Bus services run from the city centre to both Low and High Bradfield, making it a convenient option for a car-free day of hiking. It's best to check the latest timetables for South Yorkshire public transport before you travel.

The reservoir walks vary in character. The path around Damflask Reservoir is generally flat and accessible, making it one of the easiest options. In contrast, walks around Agden or Dale Dike, such as the Dale Dike Reservoir & Boots Folley loop, often involve more varied terrain with some ascents and descents through woodland and fields.

For classic reservoir views, the paths around Damflask and Agden are excellent. For more expansive, panoramic vistas, you'll want to take a route that climbs into the hills. Walks that ascend to High Bradfield offer rewarding views across the valley, and routes that venture onto the surrounding moorlands provide a sense of wild, open space characteristic of the Peak District.

There are over 200 hiking routes to explore around Bradfield on komoot. These range from easy waterside strolls to more demanding moorland treks, offering plenty of options for every type of hiker.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the beautiful reservoir scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the variety of walks available. The mix of gentle valley trails and more challenging moorland hikes is a frequently mentioned highlight.

While the main features of Bradfield are its reservoirs and moorlands, the streams and cloughs that feed them can create small, charming cascades, especially after rainfall. You're more likely to find these on trails that explore the steeper-sided valleys away from the main reservoir paths, such as in the woodlands around Dale Dike.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the area offers longer routes that connect multiple reservoirs or climb onto the high moors. The View of Morehall Reservoir – Broomhead Reservoir loop from Bolsterstone is a moderate 5.4-mile (8.7 km) option. You can also find routes extending over 10 miles that take in trig points like Kirk Edge for a strenuous but rewarding day with significant ascent.