Sprotbrough Falls - Barnburgh Cliff - Denaby Ings - Conisbrough

Sam Roebuck

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Sprotbrough Falls - Harlington - Barnburgh Cliff - High Melton - Denaby Ings - Conisbrough

This 'figure-of-eight' walk starts at the popular beauty spot of Sprotbrough Falls, on the River Don, near Doncaster. After a walk around Sprotbrough Flash Nature Reserve, we pick up the Don Gorge section of the Trans Pennine Trail. At the majestic Conisbrough Viaduct there are great views of Conisbrough Castle, as we follow the trail onwards to Denaby Ings Nature Reserve.

Leaving the Don Valley, we follow its tributary, the Dearne for a short while, before breaking away to Harlington and Barnburgh Villages, both having pubs where you can refresh yourself ready for the steady climb up to Barnburgh Cliff.

From Barnburgh Cliff, the views over the Dearne Valley extend for miles and it's said that on a clear day, the distinctive white frontage of Barnsley Town Hall can be seen. After running for a while along the sandstone cliff edge, we cross to High Melton and drop back to the Don Valley for a second visit to Denaby Ings, where there is alternative parking. Here we once again pick up the Trans Pennine Trail and backtrack through the Ings. Now, you have a choice. It is easy to continue along the Trans Pennine Trail all the way back to Sprotbrough Falls. Alternatively, you can leave the Trans Pennine Trail into Conisbrough and visit the castle. Passing Conisbrough Station (a good alternative start), the route takes us up to Conisbrough Castle, an impressive stone motte and bailey, with its unique 12th Century buttressed keep. Now, it's back down to the River Don, to return through woodland to Sprotbrough Falls, where you can reward yourself with a drink in the Boat Inn.

Dog Walkers
Apart from the length of the walk, it is ideal for dogwalkers. There should be no livestock present and there are only two stiles along the entire route (both at Waymark 23). Please keep dogs on a lead around Sprotbrough Flash and Denaby Ings Nature Reserves and also along the road stretches (most especially at the bridge between Waymarks 24 and 25, where there is no footpath and the road is quite busy).

England - North England - Yorkshire - Countryside

Features

Ancient Monument, Birds, Butterflies, Castle, Church, Food Shop, Gift Shop, Great Views, Lake/Loch, Pub, Public Transport, River, Wildlife, Woodland

8/4/2014 - Graham Barthorpe

A really good walk without having to go up to the hills. Plenty of variety in the terrain and interest.Took a neighbours Lab who loved the wet bits. We by-passed Harlington and took St Helens Lane instead. We still clocked just over 15 miles!! Walked this on a Sunday and found the Trans Pennine way busy with bikes. Suggest midweek would be better.

1/16/2011 - Alun Windle

We do this walk about every 4 weeks and the dogs think it's great too.

10/20/2009 - robert hayes

Great walk, took my dog no real problems with stiles only with other dog owners. Kept mine on lead, others did not. All paths easy to find. Would do this walk again.