Damflask Reservoir sits in the Loxley Valley, just west of Sheffield and close to the small hamlet of Lower Bradfield. It is a quiet place, but one with a heavy past. The reservoir covers the site of a village that was lost during the Great Sheffield Flood of 1864, a fact that adds a subtle sense of history to what is now a calm, everyday landscape. During the pandemic, we kept coming back here, walking the full 3.6-mile loop when we needed space, fresh air, and something steady to break up long weeks.
The path around the reservoir follows the water closely for most of the way, with regular views across the dam and out over the valley. It is a well-used route and generally flat, which makes it manageable without much planning or effort. Most of the walk is off-road, though there is a short section along a road that briefly pulls you out of the rhythm. It is not ideal, but it passes quickly and feels like a fair trade for the rest of the loop.
Damflask is around a 20-minute drive from Sheffield city centre, which makes it easy to reach without feeling like you have gone far. Parking is on-street, and we have never had much trouble finding a spot before setting off. Once you are there, the pace naturally slows. It works just as well for a simple walk as it does for a long pause on the grass with food and a flask, watching the water change with the light.
The reservoir is also home to The Sheffield Rowing Club, which brings a different kind of energy to the water. They run events throughout the year and actively welcome people who are new to rowing. In the spring, they usually hold taster evenings, giving first-timers a chance to get out on the water and see what it is like.
Damflask Reservoir is not flashy, and that is part of why it works. It offers a reliable, grounding loop, a bit of local history, and space to spend a few unhurried hours outdoors. It is the kind of place you return to, not because it demands attention, but because it fits easily into real life.
Information
Address: Damflask Reservoir, Loxley Valley, Low Bradfield, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S6 6SQ, England (approximate location used for access and parking)
Latitude: 53.410575 N
Longitude: -1.580247 W
What3Words: sheets.flash.nodded (starting point for circular walk route around the reservoir)
Directions: From Sheffield city centre head west on the A57 towards Manchester then follow signs for Bradfield and Low Bradfield along the B6077. Once in Low Bradfield, park on roadside near The Sands or village centre and follow footpaths to the reservoir edge.
Note: There is no dedicated car park at the reservoir itself so roadside parking in the village or near The Sands is the typical access point.
