Walks from Rotherham Central

A great mix of nature, old and new industrial architecture. An easy and flat walk almost entirely along the canal towpath. The Sheffield half is a little uneven and can be slightly muddy underfoot; after Rotherham it is well-surfaced as part of the cycle route. Off-road for almost the whole way with no steps. Lined with interesting industrial archaeology and some street art at the Sheffield end. Suitable for dogs, buggies and cyclists. The Sheffield canal basin (off the published route) has the famous straddle warehouse plus shops, cafes and toilets.

Warnings: Sections of the towpath have been subject to temporary closures with diversions; check before relying on a continuous route.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

A view of the stunning Wentworth Hall and it's delightful associated village; one of the grandest stately homes in the country. A typical mix of roadside pavements, quiet lanes without pavement, field, wood and grassy-lane paths, including a long and almost traffic-free tarmac section through the grounds of a grand estate. Some gentle climbs; mostly easy going.

Lunch: Shops and cafes at the Elsecar heritage centre, and a shop, inn and post office just off route at Wentworth.

Warnings: Cattle may be present where the route crosses estate parkland. The lane approaching Wentworth can be overgrown. Munsbrough Rise/Munsborough Lane can be busy and is a hazard on car-boot-sale days.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

A mostly flat, well-surfaced walk on towpath, old railway cycle track and pavement and following the Don and the canal through a green corridor between industrial sites. A few unsurfaced but compacted sections and some steps; one significant climb early on. Follows the Trans Pennine Trail along the canal. No services on route. Rotherham Central station building is notably impressive.

Lunch: No services on the route.

Warnings: A major road crossing on Meadow Bank Road needs care; use the pelican crossing as the pavement runs out beyond the residential area. The route also negotiates subways and level crossings beneath the M1 at Tinsley.

Walk details: Slow Ways.