Rivelin Valley Circular Walk, Sheffield

Rivelin Valley is rated 9 out of 10 for dog friendliness and is a well-loved local dog walk for good reason. The wooded trail is shaded for much of the route, there are no livestock to worry about on the trail itself, and the river offers plenty of safe spots for a splash. Rivelin Park Cafe near the middle of the valley makes a handy stop along the way.

Dogs can be off lead along most of the trail, and many make straight for the river to paddle at the various safe entry points. It's worth having a reliable recall at busier times, as the route is popular with joggers and families as well as dog walkers. A lead is sensible near the road crossings at either end of the route.

The circular starts near Malin Bridge and follows both banks of the river upstream and back, passing old mill ponds, stepping stones and small weirs — all great for a curious dog to explore. There are free car parks at Walkley Bank Tilt (S6 5FY), Rails Road (S6 6GF) and Rivelin Dams (S10 4LJ) if you want to vary your start point. Facilities including a cafe, toilets and picnic tables are available at Rivelin Park, roughly in the middle of the valley.