Escape the city
Less than 6 miles from the centre of Sheffield, Rivelin is a peaceful natural retreat from inner city life. The surrounding woodlands are managed by the Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust and play host to all kinds of wildlife. The two reservoirs finished construction in the 1840s.
Facilities
Activities
Walks
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rivelin and Redmires walk | 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?
Redmires Reservoirs
Redmires Reservoirs are a series of three reservoirs less than 10 miles away from the centre of Sheffield. Despite their proximity to a large city, the reservoirs are situated in stunning open moorland.
How to get there
By car
This route begins at our free car park at Rivelin Dams (S6 6GH). Alternative parking is available at the public car park at S10 4QZ (this is not owned or managed by us), where the road bends at the north-western edge of the Redmires upper reservoir. There is also some roadside parking along Redmires Road – please park carefully and with consideration for other road users.
From Sheffield
Head west out of Sheffield City Centre on the A57 (keeping right after 1 mile where the A57 leaves Fulwood Road). After 5 miles, turn left to cross Rivelin Reservoir embankment – the car park is on the left before the bend in the road.
Parking
The car park is open 8am to 6pm.
Please make sure you allow plenty of time to get back to your car as the gate is locked at 6pm.
There are only 9 parking spaces at the reservoir car park and they fill up quickly most days.
By public transport
There are bus stops along the A57, such as Wyming Brook Drive bus stop.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Rivelin Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Rivelin 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 Rivelin Reservoir?
Rivelin Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Rivelin 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 Rivelin Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Rivelin 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 Rivelin Reservoir?
No, Rivelin 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.