As someone who moved from a very small town to a bigger city, it was definitely quite overwhelming at first; the countryside views replaced by high-rise and university buildings. But, lucky for me, and for you if you’re considering Sheffield as your university city, it is actually a very green city. In fact, one of the greenest, according to NatWest and the University of Southampton’s ‘Green Cities‘ report in 2021. And on top of that, there are plenty of transport links to the Peak District. Whether you’re a new student or have been here for a couple of years, university can be tough on everyone sometimes. That’s why it’s important to know about these beautiful walks near Sheffield for when you just want to run away for a bit; disconnect from your laptop and lectures, and reconnect with the outside world for a bit.
1. Crookes Valley Park
⚲ Location: Old Great Dam, Sheffield S10 2TU
Located right next to the University of Sheffield’s campus, Crookes Valley is a beautiful park that is perfect if you’re looking to just relax and have a bit of fun. It’s probably one of the most convenient walks near Sheffield to do regularly. A lot of students frequent here, some even swim in the lake. It’s not the longest of walks, but it’s a nice place to go and just sit for a couple of hours, and maybe even take a picnic! There are gorgeous trees and a lake, and even a pub.
If you are looking for a bit of a walk around this area, there’s a circular trail that takes you around the three Crookesmoor parks: Crookes Valley Park, Ponderosa, and Weston Park.
These three parks are all fairly small, but close together, making it a nice 2 mile circular walk if you want to keep moving as opposed to just sitting. Within Weston Park, there are several memorials and the Weston Park Museum. And Ponderosa is a nice area of grassland, perfect for some outdoor games.
2. Rivelin Valley Trail
⚲ Location: S6 5FE
This trail is northwest of the city centre, and is easily accessible by tram as it is located next to the Malin Bridge stop. The route follows a beautiful river valley with hundreds of trees, stepping stones, remnants of the area’s industrial past, and a cafe along the trail. It’s a 2 mile walk connecting Sheffield to the Peak District.
3. Grindleford (and Padley Gorge Circular)
⚲ Location: S32 2JA
A return train ticket to Grindleford from Sheffield has never cost me more than £5 with my railcard, which is a very affordable option when it comes to exploring nature outside of Sheffield. Starting at the train station, this area is absolutely breathtaking. There are streams, cliff faces, natural stairs, and unique trees. It is definitely one of my favourite places in the Peak District. There are so many different routes you can take, one leading to an ice cream van and a lovely National Trust cafe that does the most delicious cheese and bacon loaded wedges!
4. Baslow Edge
⚲ Location: S32 3YR
Hop on the 218 bus route in Sheffield for £6 return and stay on until Bar Brook Bridge. This is where you’ll find Baslow Edge. It’s a lovely area in the Peak District with the most breathtaking views! But the best part? The highland cows. They roam in the fields around this area, and they are super friendly. It’s the perfect place to take your mind off of upcoming exams or assignments – it’s hard to think about that sort of stuff when you’re stroking the cutest cow you’ve ever seen.
5. Edale
⚲ Location: S33 7ZQ
With another affordable train journey, Edale is also one of the great walks near Sheffield. I remember visiting during peak assignment season, and it was such a weight lifted to have no service and fully detox from technology for a bit. No lectures or Outlook emails, just a lot of very big hills and gorgeous views.
University can be one of the most amazing times of your life, but it’s a big change, and of course, it might feel a little overwhelming sometimes. So, it is unbelievably important to make sure you take some time away from the readings and the screens. Give yourself a second to breathe in fresh air, and let your mind take a rest. You’ve got to take care of yourself, and the change of scenery is so good for you when things get difficult. Sheffield has so many beautiful parks to offer, and is in such a perfect location when it comes to travelling to the Peak District – these are just a few of my personal favourites, but there are so many to explore, and you’re allowed to take time away from your computer screen to do that!
FAQs on the Best Walks Near Sheffield
Some of the most popular student-friendly walks include Endcliffe Park to Forge Dam, the Peak District’s Stanage Edge, and Ladybower Reservoir. These routes are easily accessible from the city and perfect for both short strolls and day hikes.
The Peak District National Park is less than 20 minutes by car or around 30 minutes by bus from Sheffield city centre, making it one of the most accessible outdoor areas for students in the UK.
Yes. Gentle walks like the Porter Brook Trail, Rivelin Valley, and Endcliffe Park are perfect for beginners. They’re well signposted, relatively flat, and can be enjoyed without specialist walking gear.
Stanage Edge is famous for its dramatic views across the Peak District, while Mam Tor near Castleton offers sweeping hilltop scenery. Closer to the city, walks up to Surprise View or Blacka Moor Nature Reserve provide stunning outlooks too.
Not necessarily. Many of the best walks are accessible by public transport. Buses and trains from Sheffield can take you to destinations like Hathersage, Bamford, and Edale, which all link to scenic walking routes.
