Take a secluded stroll along the Moss Valley to the south of Sheffield, and discover some of the rare flora and fauna that distinguish this beautiful, and in some parts, ancient, woodland. 

Wonderful Woodland

From Coalpit Wood at the western end of the reserve with its sycamores, occasional horse chestnuts and oaks, to the varied canopy of Newfield Spring Wood at the eastern side, there are several distinct areas of woodland at the reserve.  At Long Wood oak and beech predominate, and dog’s mercury and other woodland plants thrive in the rich stream-side soils, while Bridle Road Wood has been extensively coppiced to provide sheltered sunny spots, ideal for feeding butterflies.  Wild flowers like yellow pimpernel, St John’s wort, wood speedwell and sweet woodruff all indicate areas of ancient woodland.

Teeming Grassland

Thanks to its south-facing aspect, unimproved soils, and wide variety of plants and habitats, the grasslands of Dowey Lumb at the south-eastern corner of the site are teeming with invertebrates – some of them rare.  There are 85 species of moth, including the slender brindle, whilst the rare white-letter hairstreak is numbered among the many butterflies. 

Flora and Fauna

Brown and bullhead trout, and even the extremely rare white-clawed crayfish have been found in the two streams which run through the reserve, while moschatel, a locally rare flower, also grows here.  The 46 species of fungi found at the reserve provide food for birds and small mammals, and, by causing decay in trees, create nesting holes for bats and birds.  The increasingly scarce birds - linnet, song thrush and bullfinch are found in the woods; grey wagtails and kingfishers by the streams; and tawny owls and sparrowhawks hunt small birds and mammals.  Adders, slow worms and greater crested newts have all been spotted, as have larger mammals like badgers, hares and roe deer.

How to get there

By Foot
There are various footpaths to the reserve from Bochum Parkway, Birches Lane, Hazelhurst Lane and Eckington Road.

By Bus
Buses 659, 253, 43 and 75 from the city centre all stop a short distance away. For full details, phone on Travelline 01700 515151 or visit www.travelsouthyorkshire.com.

By Car
You can park in the surrounding streets, and take the footpaths to the reserve.

• Parking
• Picnic Area

• Heathland
• Woodland