Enjoy a peaceful circular walk at Dale Dike Reservoir
The reservoir is much loved by walkers offering a peaceful and tranquil 2-mile circular walk. This route is quite muddy and uneven so walking boots are recommended. There is no car park, but some roadside parking is available. Please park safely and considerately.
Activities
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dale Dike walk | 2.5 miles | 2 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?
Agden Reservoir
Agden reservoir, completed in 1869, sits above Damflask Reservoir with Dale Dike and Strines Reservoirs to the south-west.
Damflask Reservoir
Damflask 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
There is no car park at Dale Dike Reservoir, however some roadside parking is available (such as at points 1, S6 6LE, and 7, S6 6JE, on the route) – please park carefully and with consideration for other road users.
From Sheffield
Head west/north-west out of Sheffield via Loxley Road (B6077), past Loxley and towards High Bradfield. After about 4 miles, when you reach High Bradfield, turn left down Woodfall Lane and around the village green at Low Bradfield. Go over the bridge and right onto Fairhouse Lane, which then becomes Annet Lane. Keep right as Annet Lane becomes Dale Road and then continue for another ¾ mile to where this walk begins.
By public transport
There is a bus stop where Fair House Lane becomes Annet Lane, about a mile away from the start 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 Dale Dike Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Dale Dike 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 Dale Dike Reservoir?
Dale Dike Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Dale Dike 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 Dale Dike Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Dale Dike 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 Dale Dike Reservoir?
No, Dale Dike 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.