SSW #015: Blue Loop

The Blue Loop is a long circular walk “taking in the industrial heritage and waterways of Sheffield.” We’ll start at Castlegate, walk along the River Don passing all five of its weirs of the river, and then when we reach Meadowhall we’ll leave the Don and head back along the Sheffield and Tinsley Canal, stopping into IKEA for half an hour to grab a quick lunch (equally, feel free to bring lunch with you, we’ll take a break regardless).

The full walk as described above is 14km, but if you would like a shorter route or have young ones with you, you’ll be able to get the tram back into Sheffield Centre once we reach Meadowhall, which is about 7km into the walk. The choice is up to you!

This is a longer, medium-paced walk open to all ages with a couple of stopping points - we’ll be aiming to walk partially in silence, partially chatting. The canal path is easy to walk along but is obviously next to a canal, so please make sure you’re comfortable with this and looking out for your own safety (plus the safety of your children/pets etc). There’ll be chance to pop into a toilet about halfway round when we reach IKEA. Wear weather-appropriate clothing, bring snacks/water, and please also bring something to make listening notes, such as a notebook and pen, or an audio recorder if you have one. I’ll provide printouts for everyone with a map, listening prompts, and some info about the area.

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