Damflask Reservoir sits in the Loxley Valley, just west of Sheffield, close to the small hamlet of Lower Bradfield. It is a quiet place, but one with a heavier past than it first suggests. The reservoir covers the site of a village lost in the Great Sheffield Flood of 1864, which adds a subtle layer of history to what is now a calm, everyday landscape.
During the pandemic, we kept coming back here. It became a steady loop when we needed space, fresh air, and something consistent to break up long weeks. The full circuit is around 3.6 miles, long enough to feel like you have been somewhere, but easy enough to return to without much thought.
The path follows the water closely for most of the route, with regular views across the dam and out over the valley. It is a well-used trail and generally flat, so it does not need much planning. Most of it is off-road, with one short road section that briefly interrupts the rhythm. It is not ideal, but it passes quickly and does not take much away from the walk overall.
At roughly a 20-minute drive from Sheffield city centre, Damflask is easy to reach without feeling like you have gone far. Parking is on-street around Lower Bradfield or near The Sands, and in our experience it has been straightforward to find a space before setting off.
Once you arrive, the pace tends to slow on its own. It works just as well for a simple walk as it does for a longer stop. There is space to sit on the grass with food and a flask, watching the light shift across the water without needing to be anywhere else.
The reservoir is also home to The Sheffield Rowing Club, which brings a different kind of movement to the water. They run events through the year and welcome people new to rowing. In spring, they usually offer taster evenings, giving a straightforward way to try it for the first time.
Damflask is not a place that demands attention, and that is part of why it works. It is a reliable, grounding loop with just enough history and space to spend a few unhurried hours outdoors. The kind of place you return to 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 the roadside near The Sands or in the village centre and follow footpaths down 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 usual access point.
