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The walk is largely along a canal towpath which follows the River Don for eight kilometres and gives you an insight into Sheffield’s industrial past.

Ramblers in Sheffield

Terry Howard and Les Seaman from Sheffield Ramblers led the walk, which set off from the Queens Head pub next to Sheffield Interchange. We didn't call in to try the produce as it was a 10am start!

The group of 20 of us made our way past Ponds Forge down to the Wicker where Les gave us a great insight into the demise of Sheffield Castle.

Not long after, we were back on track heading down past the Wicker Arches to the first weir - the Walk Mill Weir - which on a sunny morning was peaceful as the water flowed down the Don.

Gasworks

Next up it was Burton Weir after we had crossed Norfolk Bridge. At this point along the Don, the plants were growing wild and beautiful and the sun came through the shade.

Everyone was having fun chatting, and the group of Ramblers - all older than myself - put me to shame as I was the only one who really appreciated the 10 minute break after about three miles!

Salmon Pastures Schools plaque

Quickly approaching was Salmon Pastures, which was once a school. Les and another Rambler called Stan told me they had both studied there; Les to train as an engineer and Stan as an apprentice plumber. The school is no longer there, nor are the salmon which another Rambler, Terry Howard, told me used to swim there (hence the name!)

Sanderson's Weir was our next port of call after walking down an old cobbled street. We were fortunate enough to see some wildlife on this part of the walk; a Kingfisher flew low over the river and what a beautiful sight to see in an area which runs concurrently where the old steel mills used to be.

Walkers at Wards Brewery, Sheffield

Something else which surprised me about the walk was that starting from Blonk street we could occasionally hear cars and some building work, but after a while there was peaceful tranquility despite going through Sheffield's former heavily industrialised area. I doubt it was so peaceful 70 years ago.

Following our trail on the lower Don, we headed towards the Brightside Weir after passing over Huntsman's Bridge and past Forgemasters. Along that part, the path is straight leading towards our fifth and final weir. With the greens of the trees and the rumbling of the river it was surprising to think we had founf this small piece of heaven in an urban area.

Weir on the River Don

Finally we see the turquoise tops of Meadowhall growing nearer and we know that our eight mile walk is coming to an end. One thing I never knew is that there were fig trees growing along the Don and a lot of them are near the Hadfield Weir.

While on this ramble I met some fascinating people who Ramble for many different reasons. Next up... our visit to the old Iron Age fortress at the top of Wincobank Hill - another jewel in Sheffield's crown which is a diamond in the rough.