Grab your walking boots
The public footpath leading from Windy Bank and around the north of the reservoir, is mostly flat and well surfaced but can be muddy. Walking boots are recommended. The villages of Low Bradfield and High Bradfield sit to the south and southeast of the reservoir, offering pubs, cafes and public toilets.
Agden Bog, a Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust Reserve, sits just to the north of the reservoir. Bogs were lost from our landscape as land was drained for agriculture. This site is a classic example of an ancient landscape, featuring birds like nightjar, spotted flycatcher, willow warbler, bullfinch, siskin, lesser redpoll and common sandpiper.
Activities
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agden walk | 3.5 miles | 3 out of 4 |
|
Visitor information
To keep everyone happy and safe, please:
- follow government guidance
- don’t swim
- take your litter home
- stick to the path
- keep your dog on a lead
- clean up after your dog
- don’t light fires or BBQs.
Make a day of it
While you're here, why not visit a nearby reservoir?
Dale Dike Reservoir
Dale Dike Reservoir sits in a chain of reservoirs between Strines and Damflask Reservoirs and was completed in 1864. The reservoir is much loved by walkers offering a peaceful and tranquil 2-mile circular walk.
Damflask Reservoir
Damflask Reservoir is situated in the Loxley Valley, near the village of Low Bradfield. It sits just within the boundary of the Peak District National Park, giving it a beautiful countryside setting whilst still being easily accessible from the centre of Sheffield, just 5 miles to the east.
How to get there
By car
The walking route begins at the public car park, off The Sands in Low Bradfield (S6 6LA). There is also some roadside parking in Low Bradfield.
From Loxley
Head west on the B6077/Loxley Road for 3 miles to High Bradfield. Turn left onto Woodfall Lane and down the hill to Low Bradfield. At the T-junction with Mill Lee Road, turn right and then right again onto the Sands. The car park is on the right after about 100 metres.
By public transport
Low Bradfield is accessible by bus. There is a bus stop where Smithy Bridge Road meets Mill Lee Road; just a two minute walk away from the start point of the route.
More things to do near Sheffield
Whether you fancy a gentle stroll around a reservoir, a challenging hike or an afternoon of fishing and sailing, there's plenty to do around Sheffield.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Agden Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Agden Reservoir. Reservoirs are really dangerous places and have lots of dangers hidden under the surface. We don't allow anyone to swim in our reservoirs, even if you’re a great swimmer!
Why can’t you swim in Agden Reservoir?
Agden Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Agden Reservoir supplies water to be treated, so there's machinery and strong currents under the water. There may also be blue-green algae, which causes rashes and severe illnesses.
Can dogs swim in Agden Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Agden Reservoir and they shouldn’t drink the water. Blue-green algae can form on the surface, which is poisonous and can kill them. There’s also dangerous machinery and strong currents under the water.
Is wild swimming allowed in Agden Reservoir?
No, Agden Reservoir is dangerous. Reservoirs aren't the same as natural lakes, they’re man-made and have large machinery that’s working 24/7 just below the surface. They’re also very cold, have strong currents and might have blue-green algae which causes rashes and severe illness.