Forge Dam Park: A Serene Urban Oasis in Sheffield
A tranquil Sheffield park featuring a historic millpond, family playground, scenic trails, and a welcoming café for nature lovers and families.
Forge Dam Park in Sheffield is a picturesque green space centered around a historic millpond, offering scenic walking trails, a family-friendly playground, and a popular café. Known for its tranquil pond with abundant wildlife, including ducks, it provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and families alike. Recent restoration efforts have enhanced the pond’s natural beauty, making it an inviting spot for picnics, photography, and leisurely outdoor activities.
A brief summary to Forge Dam Park
- 9 Whiteley Ln, Sheffield, S10 4GL, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere, especially if visiting with children.
- Check the Forge Dam Café opening hours before your visit, as they may vary seasonally.
- Combine your visit with a scenic walk from Endcliffe Park along the Porter Brook trail for a longer nature experience.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas while watching the ducks and other wildlife around the pond.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take bus services from Sheffield city center to Fulwood or nearby stops, then enjoy a 15-20 minute walk along the Porter Brook trail to Forge Dam Park. Bus fares range from £2 to £4 depending on the route and ticket type. Service frequency varies but generally runs every 15-30 minutes during the day.
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Car
Drive to Forge Dam Park with parking available on nearby residential streets such as Whiteley Lane and Ivy Cottage Lane. Parking is free but can be limited during weekends and good weather. Expect a 10-20 minute drive from Sheffield city center.
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Walking
For a scenic approach, walk from Endcliffe Park to Forge Dam Park via the Limb Valley path. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes over well-maintained trails suitable for families and casual walkers.
Forge Dam Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Forge Dam Park
A Historic Millpond with a Natural Charm
Forge Dam Park is nestled in the Limb Valley area of Sheffield, centered around a historic millpond that once powered local industry. Unlike typical industrial millponds, Forge Dam uniquely traps the river and silt it carries, a feature that required regular dredging during its working days. The pond and surrounding area have undergone significant restoration, including a major desilting project completed in 2023, which removed thousands of square meters of silt to restore the pond’s depth and ecological health. This restoration has revitalized the habitat, supporting abundant wildlife and enhancing the park’s natural allure.Family-Friendly Recreation and Amenities
The park is especially popular with families, offering a safe and engaging environment for children. A dedicated playground with a distinctive slide built into the hillside provides hours of fun, while the shallow pond area allows kids to safely observe ducks and other wildlife. The Forge Dam Café, located conveniently near the pond, serves refreshments including popular ice creams, making it a perfect spot to relax after outdoor play. Public toilets and picnic areas further enhance the convenience for visitors spending a leisurely day outdoors.Scenic Walks and Wildlife Watching
Forge Dam Park is ideal for peaceful walks along well-maintained trails that follow the water’s edge and the surrounding woodland. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can enjoy spotting ducks, robins, and other local wildlife. The park’s setting in the Limb Valley provides a tranquil atmosphere, with the gentle sounds of flowing water and rustling leaves creating a soothing backdrop. Many visitors combine their visit with a walk from nearby Endcliffe Park, following the Porter Brook trail through scenic green corridors.Community Efforts and Environmental Stewardship
The park’s recent improvements owe much to the dedicated efforts of the Friends of the Porter Valley (FoPV), who raised funds and partnered with Sheffield City Council to restore and maintain the dam and its surroundings. Their work has ensured the pond remains a vital habitat and recreational resource for the city. The restoration project focused on ecological health and visitor experience, deliberately excluding the return of boating to preserve the pond’s tranquility and wildlife.A Year-Round Urban Escape
Accessible from dawn till dusk throughout the year, Forge Dam Park offers a refreshing escape from urban life regardless of season. The café operates daily with seasonal hours, providing a welcoming hub for visitors. The park’s layout and amenities support a variety of activities including picnicking, photography, cycling, and casual wildlife observation. Its location within Sheffield makes it a convenient green refuge for locals and tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty and community spirit.Preserving a Sheffield Treasure
Forge Dam Park stands as a testament to Sheffield’s commitment to preserving its natural and industrial heritage. The blend of historic significance, ecological restoration, and family-friendly facilities creates a unique urban park experience. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful pond views, engage with local wildlife, and appreciate the ongoing community dedication that keeps this green space vibrant and welcoming for all ages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Endcliffe Campus
2.8 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Lost & Found Sheffield
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Friesday Belgian Fries
3.9 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
4.3 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Sheffield War Memorial
5.3 km
A solemn and iconic Grade II* listed cenotaph in Sheffield city centre, honoring the city's wartime sacrifices with striking sculptures and historic symbolism.
Green Police Box
5.5 km
Sheffield’s unique green and white police box, a charming relic of early 20th-century policing, stands proudly outside the Town Hall as a symbol of local heritage.
The Museum
5.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Museum, Sheffield's beloved pub and restaurant, where local flavors meet a lively social scene.
Carl Wark
5.6 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Crucible Theatre
5.7 km
Experience the vibrant arts scene at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre, home to world-class performances and the iconic World Snooker Championship.
Sheaf Square
5.7 km
Explore Sheaf Square: A vibrant public space in Sheffield, blending modern design with historical charm, perfect for relaxation and social gatherings.
Victoria Hall
5.7 km
Explore Victoria Hall in Sheffield, a historic events venue with stunning architecture and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for concerts, weddings, and more.
Kelham Island Walks
5.8 km
Discover Kelham Island, Sheffield’s historic steelmaking heart transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, craft beer, and urban charm.
Kelham Island Museum
5.8 km
Uncover the fascinating industrial history of Sheffield at Kelham Island Museum, featuring interactive exhibits, a café, and a unique gift shop.
The River Don Engine
5.8 km
Explore the River Don Engine in Sheffield, a fascinating museum celebrating the city's industrial heritage and engineering marvels.
Kelham Central
5.8 km
Experience modern urban living at Kelham Central, Sheffield's innovative housing development, blending sustainability with community spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shepherd Wheel
1.4 km
Discover Sheffield’s 16th-century water-powered grinding workshop nestled in tranquil Porter Valley woodland, where history and nature meet.
The Stylists - Lifestyle Store & Coffee
1.9 km
Curated homeware, local gifts and a cosy coffee counter in a compact, creative Fulwood Road shop — small-batch finds and neighbourhood charm.
Endcliffe Park
2.5 km
Victorian heritage park with woodland walks, historic monuments, and the poignant Mi Amigo memorial.
Turnip & Thyme
2.6 km
Cozy Sheffield bistro serving creative modern British dishes with seasonal flair and welcoming service on Ecclesall Road.
Endcliffe Park Playground
2.8 km
A beautifully refurbished, inclusive playground set within the historic and scenic Endcliffe Park, perfect for family fun and nature exploration.
Chelsea Park
3.0 km
A serene Victorian-era garden turned public park, Chelsea Park offers peaceful green spaces and modern play areas in the heart of Nether Edge.
Sheffield Makers Hunters Bar
3.0 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures from Sheffield’s finest local makers at this vibrant Hunters Bar gift shop.
Holly Hagg Community Farm & Alpaca Treks
3.0 km
Experience peaceful alpaca treks and community farming in Sheffield’s scenic Rivelin Valley.
The Beer House
3.1 km
Sheffield’s pioneering micro pub offering cozy charm and an exceptional selection of real ales and craft beers on Ecclesall Road.
The Well Sheffield
3.2 km
A welcoming Baptist church in Sheffield’s Sharrow district, blending modern worship with community spirit since 2015.
Bear pit
3.3 km
Discover the Bear Pit in Sheffield, a historical attraction that offers a glimpse into the city's past and a serene escape in a beautiful green setting.
Ecclesall Woods
3.3 km
Discover Sheffield’s largest ancient woodland, a tranquil haven of wildlife, history, and scenic trails just minutes from the city centre.
Rose Garden
3.3 km
Explore the Victorian elegance and fragrant beauty of Sheffield Botanical Gardens’ Rose Garden, featuring historic roses and the iconic Pan statue.
The Glass Pavilions
3.3 km
Discover the historic Glass Pavilions in Sheffield Botanical Gardens, a Victorian masterpiece showcasing global temperate plants in stunning glasshouses.
Botanical Gardens
3.4 km
A Victorian-era oasis of themed gardens, rare plants and elegant glass pavilions, just a short walk from Sheffield city centre.
Essential places to dine
Rafters Restaurant
1.6 km
Discover Sheffield’s refined modern British dining at Rafters, where rustic charm meets innovative flavors and impeccable service.
Borgo Antica Osteria
1.7 km
Experience authentic Italian hospitality and cuisine in Sheffield’s warm and welcoming Borgo Antica Osteria.
Urban Choola
2.5 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with a modern twist at Urban Choola, Sheffield’s vibrant dining destination on Ecclesall Road.
La Luna Restaurant
2.5 km
Authentic Italian flavors and a warm BYO atmosphere await you at La Luna on Sheffield’s vibrant Ecclesall Road.
Olive
2.6 km
Mediterranean-inspired dining with Italian and Moroccan flair, set in a warm, rustic Sheffield venue with artistic charm and attentive service.
Brocco Kitchen
3.0 km
Elegant Nordic-inspired dining in a charming Edwardian villa, offering fresh, seasonal dishes in Sheffield’s peaceful Brocco Bank neighborhood.
Mowgli Street Food Sheffield
3.1 km
Experience authentic Indian street food flavors in a vibrant, market-inspired setting on Sheffield’s Ecclesall Road.
Bella Donna Sicilian Restaurant
3.1 km
Authentic Sicilian flavors and warm hospitality combine in this cozy Sheffield gem, perfect for a genuine Italian dining experience.
Nonna's Sheffield
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Nonna's Sheffield, a vibrant culinary gem on Ecclesall Road.
Akentannos
3.3 km
Discover authentic Sardinian cuisine in Sheffield’s Sharrow district, where tradition meets warm hospitality and inclusive dining.
Zaap Thai Street Food Sheffield
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of authentic Thai street food in the heart of Sheffield’s Ecclesall Road.
Koko Restaurant
3.4 km
Sophisticated Pan-Asian dining with fresh sushi, vegan options, and warm service in Sheffield’s vibrant Sharrow district.
Thyme Café
3.4 km
Lively rustic café in Sheffield’s Broomhill serving seasonal modern European dishes with a warm, casual atmosphere and attentive service.
Joni at The Botanical Gardens
3.4 km
Garden café bliss: fresh brunches, lush views, and dog-friendly vibes in Sheffield's Botanical haven.
Butcher & Catch
3.5 km
Savor Sheffield’s finest modern British meat and seafood dishes in a warm, wood-panelled setting with bold flavors and generous portions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifted
2.4 km
Discover Sheffield's premier spot for unique gifts and artisanal treasures on vibrant Ecclesall Road South—perfect for thoughtful finds.
The Village Store
2.7 km
Discover The Village Store in Sheffield: Your go-to convenience stop for snacks, drinks, and local treats in a cozy atmosphere.
The Stock Exchange
3.0 km
A compact, curated women's boutique in Hunters Bar offering distinctive clothing and accessories in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
Trove
3.3 km
Uncover Sheffield's creative treasures at Trove, where local artistry and quirky gifts await on Sharrow Vale Road's charming stretch.
Ringinglow Toys and Gifts
3.4 km
Explore the enchanting world of Ringinglow Toys and Gifts, where creativity and fun come together in Sheffield's beautiful Botanical Gardens.
SAYPALOMA
3.5 km
Ibiza-inspired ladies' fashion on Sheffield's trendiest stretch—discover boho-chic treasures at Saypaloma amid Ecclesall Road's indie buzz.
The Famous Sheffield Shop
3.5 km
Discover authentic Sheffield-forged cutlery and gifts at this iconic shop, preserving the city's steelmaking mastery since 1983 amid Ecclesall Road's vibrant charm.
Cocoa Wonderland
3.5 km
Step into Sheffield's magical chocolate emporium, where handmade treats and cozy hot chocolates await in a wonderland of sweets and whimsy.
Space 205
3.6 km
Whimsical gifts, decadent chocolates, sparkling jewelry, and expert framing in Sheffield's Crookes—a treasure trove of creative delights awaits.
Sister
3.7 km
Discover designer elegance at Sister, Sheffield's chic haven for women's fashion on lively Ecclesall Road.
Mookau
3.7 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures in the vibrant heart of Sheffield’s Ecclesall Road at Mookau.
Spirals
3.8 km
Discover unique gifts and exquisite greeting cards at Spirals, Sheffield's eclectic haven on bustling Ecclesall Road—perfect for thoughtful, one-of-a-kind treasures.
Oliver Bonas
3.9 km
Quirky British style on Sheffield's Ecclesall Road: gifts, fashion, jewellery, and homewares that spark joy in every discovery.
Sheffield Store
4.4 km
Affordable, stylish clothing with a charitable spirit at the heart of Sheffield University’s Students' Union.
The Walkley Press
4.6 km
Explore The Walkley Press in Sheffield for unique gifts, handmade crafts, and local art that capture the essence of your visit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dark Horse Bar
2.5 km
Sheffield's cozy fusion of pub warmth, cocktail flair, and burger bliss on vibrant Ecclesall Road—perfect for craft drinks and casual nights out.
Wildcard Bar and Grill
2.5 km
Sheffield's ultimate sports bar: 40+ screens, giant Jumbotron, epic American grill, shuffleboard, pool, and cocktails in luxury style.
The Edge Bar
2.8 km
Vibrant University of Sheffield bar buzzing with pub grub, craft drinks, pool, darts, quizzes, and live sports in the heart of student residences.
The Harritt wine bar
3.1 km
Cozy Sheffield wine bar with exceptional selections, cheeseboards, and personal service on vibrant Ecclesall Road – ideal for intimate evenings.
The Lescar
3.2 km
Vintage Sheffield pub pouring local ales, serving roasts and comedy in cozy wood-paneled rooms with a sunny beer garden—your Hunters Bar local gem.
Porter Brook
3.2 km
Traditional Sheffield pub with hearty grub, buzzing events, sunny beer garden, and dog-friendly vibes on lively Ecclesall Road.
Monk Bar
3.3 km
Cool cocktail haven on Sheffield's trendy Ecclesall Road, serving inventive drinks, 2-for-1 happy hours, and industrial-chic vibes for intimate nights out.
The Local
3.6 km
A cosy Ecclesall Road microbar serving local ales, craft beers and neat cocktails in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
The Portland House Bar
3.9 km
Sheffield's cozy micro pub gem: craft beers, live tunes, and quiz nights in a vibrant Ecclesall Road hideaway.
The Nursery Tavern
3.9 km
A friendly Ecclesall Road pub mixing classic tavern vibes with modern touches, a big beer garden and regular events for a casual Sheffield night out.
Kettle Black
3.9 km
Sheffield's premier cocktail haven with expert mixology, exclusive late license, and chic private spaces on vibrant Ecclesall Road.
Bar Lujo - Sheffield
3.9 km
Vibrant Sheffield cocktail bar with live DJs, terraces, and eclectic drinks on lively Ecclesall Road.
Picture House Social
4.4 km
A retro-inspired social hub in Sheffield blending great pizza, lively bar games, a mini cinema, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Revolution Sheffield
4.8 km
Lively bar and grill in Sheffield’s West One Plaza with four unique bars, rooftop views, and expertly crafted cocktails.
Green Room Bar
4.9 km
A lively independent bar and live music venue in Sheffield’s city centre, known for great beers and a welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Family Friendly
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
