Where can I go for a paddle this weekend which is safe for my dog and children!? As things hot up for the summer holidays, I often get asked where to take children and dogs for a safe paddle. Luckily, we have plenty of options in Sheffield and South Yorkshire to choose from, heres a great list below for inspiration:
Wyming Brook, Sheffield - experience a bit of wilderness of the western edge of Sheffield at this gorgeous nature reserve. Complete with streams, rocks, scenic views and waterfalls. Easy strolls by the river or rockier routes available. Car park available. Rough terrain - not buggy friendly.
Rivelin valley, Sheffield - A good 2.5 mile nature trail to explore with lots of stop offs en route to paddle or watch wildlife along the way. Cafe, playground and car park.
Langsett reservoir, Sheffield - Did you know there is an accessible version of this reservoir walk for wheelchairs and buggies? Perfect for kids and dogs as lots of woodland to explore. There is also a bit to paddle in (it’s down a few steps, but we carried the pram down) so don’t forget your wellies!
Anston stones wood, Sheffield S26 - We parked by Anston Parish Hall/Cricket club, S25 4DL and there is a good playground and field, all open. Even has a sand play area too, climbing wall, and skate park. Plus picnic benches. From here there are paths that venture into the woods, some sections are steep to the water but if you keep walking there are easy access sections, perfect for paddling!
Dam flask reservoir, Bradfield - One of our favourite Reservoir walks. A good 5km circular walk which is good for buggies and dogs. Lots of woodland to explore and “beachy” areas. Don’t forget to feed the ducks in lower Bradfield too.
Porter Brook valley / forge dam, Sheffield - Walk from Endcliffe park up to Forge Dam where a super cafe, playground and stream awaits. The walk is buggy friendly and great for exploring with woodland along the way. Take your wellies for splashing in the Porter valley en route.
Padley gorge, Peak District - Padley Gorge is a deep but narrow valley in the Peak District, Derbyshire between the village of Grindleford and the A6187 road.The gorge is wooded with a stream, the Burbage Brook, at the bottom. Can get busy on a hot, summers day.
Somersall park, Chesterfield - recommended by one of our community group members and has a playground and a river for paddling, complete with ducks to feed.
Dovedale, Peak District - a popular peak district choice on a summers day, so may get busy at peak times. £3 charge for parking.
Glen Howe park, Sheffield - a big hidden gem in Sheffield for paddling. A great area of woodland filled with hidden surprises. A stream (ideal for supervised paddling as some bits quite shallow), bridges, huts and loads of space to explore. There is also a field with picnic benches and a playground.
Millhouses park, Sheffield - Always a firm favourite, and lots of opportunities t paddle in the stream nearby. Boating lake, playground, cafe and toilets.
Shirebrook nature reserve, Sheffield S13 - A vast area of woodland and trails to explore. Great for kids and dogs. Free car park. Opportunities to paddle.
