Walk leader: Serena Saligari
Date: 07/03/2026
Difficulty: Moderate
Start time: 11:15
End time: 15:30
Start and end point: Joni Cafe, 1 Langsett Rd S, Oughtibridge, Sheffield S35 0GY
Distance (in miles): 8
Ascent (in meters): 190
Is your walk dog friendly?: Yes, well-behaved dogs kept on a lead
Full description:
We’ll be setting off from Oughtibridge, heading out of the village and gradually climbing up through the trees into Wharncliffe Woods. The path winds uphill through peaceful woodland, with the sound of the River Don below and the valley slowly opening up behind us as we gain height.
At the top, we’ll reach Wharncliffe Crags – a long stretch of dramatic gritstone cliffs that run along the edge of the valley. The rocks here are over 300 million years old, and the views from the top are well worth the climb, stretching out across Stocksbridge and the Upper Don Valley.
There’s plenty of history here too. The name Wharncliffe is thought to come from “quern cliff,” as the stone was once used to make quern stones for grinding grain, dating back to Iron Age and Roman times. There are even old quarry remains hidden among the trees. And if you like a bit of legend, this is also where the famous Dragon of Wantley was said to live!
It’s a great walk with a bit of everything – woodland trails, big views, and a fascinating slice of local history.

Public transport or car sharing options:
The bus 57 leaves from Paternoster Row/SS2 (Stop SS2) at 10:32 and arrives in Oughtibridge at 11.06. Return journeys with either bus 57 or 57A are every half hour.
If you are driving, please offer lifts in the comments. There is on street parking near the start point; please get considerate of local residents.