Upper Derwent Valley

This valley close to Sheffield is extremely popular with visitors who come to enjoy the attractive mix of water and woodland within the surrounding moorland. The road winds up the left flank of Ladybower, Derwent and Howden Reservoirs for nearly 8 miles to a turnaround at King’s Tree.

On Sundays throughout the year, and Saturdays and Bank Holidays from Easter until the end of October, the road beyond Fairholmes is closed to motor vehicles to provide a more relaxing environment for walkers and cyclists. A frequent minibus service operates between Fairholmes and King’s Tree at these times, and blue badge holders may continue to drive up the valley respecting other road users.

Due to its popularity and the limited parking available, a roundabout has been constructed near the entrance to the valley together with a sign indicating when full parking capacity has been reached. At peak times in the summer it may not be possible to park.

Hurst Clough

Map ref: SK 187876

This scenic lay-by overlooks Ladybower Reservoir and provides a tranquil spot to sit in the car or on the grass. The stone surfaced parking is fairly smooth.

There are no easy walks from here except along the road/footway.

Bridge End

Map ref: SK 180885

This car park lies across the road from Ladybower Reservoir so does not provide a good viewpoint.

There are no facilities here, and the car park has a loose stone surface.

There is a relatively easy path from Bridge End to Derwent Overlook.

Derwent Overlook

Map ref: SK 173890

This car park overlooks Ladybower Reservoir, although the view is partially screened by trees in the summer. The surface is of fairly smooth tarmac, but the only level routes from here are along the roadside. There is a pavement all the way from Fairholmes to the A57.

There is a relatively easy path from Derwent Overlook to Bridge End.

Upper Derwent Visitor Centre, Fairholmes

Map ref: SK 173894
Phone for opening hours Tel: 01433 650953

This is the main car park and facilities base in the Upper Derwent Valley, situated in woodland at the northern end of Ladybower Reservoir.

The car parking (pay and display, free to blue badge holders) is on two levels, the lower level incorporating parking for disabled people close to the facilities, and a picnic area.

The car park is surfaced in smooth tarmac with gritstone paving slabs around the information centre, toilets and refreshment kiosk area.

The toilets are open during the day and include one suitable for disabled people together with baby changing facilities.

The visitor centre has been refurbished to improve access and can accommodate wheelchair users; refreshments can be bought from the adjacent kiosk window.

The main picnic area is on grass but there are 2 wheelchair accessible picnic tables next to the parking for disabled people.

There is a level tarmac path around the edge of the site with seats giving views over the reservoir.

Derwent Cycle Hire

Map ref: SK173893
Tel: 01433 651261

The cycle hire centre lies behind the visitor centre at a slightly higher level. There is a paved side path from the information centre, past the public phone and the ranger office.

More severely disabled visitors wishing to hire cycles should arrange with the staff to park close to the building. The cycle hire centre stocks a comprehensive range of bikes suitable for all abilities, provided in association with 'Wheels for All!' (phone to check availability).

More cycle hire centre information