6k Run Low Bradfield: Scenic Loop at Damflask Reservoir

Route Overview & Local Insights

If you're looking for a PB-friendly surface in the heart of the Peak District's foothills, the Damflask Reservoir loop is a standout choice. Starting from Low Bradfield, this 5.9km circuit is remarkably flat for the Sheffield area, featuring a minimal 10m ascent that allows you to focus purely on your stride. The terrain is a reliable mix of tarmac near the start and across the impressive dam wall, transitioning into well-maintained hardpack trails that hug the water’s edge. It’s an ideal route for tempo runs or a steady recovery session, offering shelter from the wind thanks to the surrounding woodland while providing sweeping views across the water.

Beyond the trails, Damflask holds a storied place in South Yorkshire’s history, having been completed in 1867 as part of the massive engineering effort to supply water to the growing industrial powerhouse of Sheffield. The reservoir takes its name from a local corn mill that was tragically swept away during the Great Sheffield Flood of 1864. Today, the atmosphere is far more serene, with the village of Low Bradfield serving as a quintessential post-run hub. Runners often finish their loop and head straight to the local delis or the nearby School Rooms for a well-earned coffee, making this spot a favorite for the Sheffield running community every weekend.