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Beginning at Dore & Totley railway station, From the station, we proceed along Dore Road, gradually ascending through this attractive residential area characterised by traditional stone houses and leafy surroundings.

After a short distance, turn right into Ecclesall Woods, one of the largest and most significant ancient woodlands in South Yorkshire. Here the route follows tranquil woodland paths beneath mature oak and beech, offering a peaceful contrast to the village streets and an opportunity to enjoy the rich natural character of the woods.

The walk then leads to the delightful Whinfell Gardens, situated beside Whinfell Hall. These charming gardens provide an unexpectedly secluded and almost enchanted setting, making them a particularly pleasant point at which to pause and appreciate the surroundings.
Continuing onwards, the route concludes at Whirlowbrook Farm, where we may enjoy a well-earned drink and take in the calm and attractive setting, providing a fitting end to a gentle and rewarding walk through some of Sheffield’s most appealing green spaces. 🌿🍷

Whinfell gardens

Whinfell Quarry Garden in Sheffield is a tranquil, sunken, and sheltered, 2.5-hectare (approx. 6-acre) woodland garden established in 1895 in a former 19th-century flagstone quarry. Created by steel industrialist Samuel Doncaster to complement his nearby Whinfell House, it features exotic plants, Giant Redwood trees, and specialized rock gardens. It was gifted to the city in 1968 and is now maintained by volunteers.

Key Historical Details

  • Original Site: Known as Whirlow Quarry until the 1880s, the site was a source of flagstones before becoming derelict.
  • Creation (1895-1902): Samuel Doncaster leased the land from the Fitzwilliam Estate in 1895, converting the "Big Quarry" into a garden featuring around 10,000 trees, including Rhododendrons and Japanese Acers.
  • Whinfell House (1902): The garden served as the grounds for Whinfell House, a half-timbered house built for1902 (later destroyed by fire in 1971).
  • Development (1912-1915): Renowned plant collector Clarence Elliott designed the "Small Quarry" in 1912 as a limestone rock garden with a cascade. In 1915, the James Backhouse & Co Nursery designed paths, steps, and pools.
  • Change of Ownership & Conservation: After Samuel Doncaster died in 1934, the estate was bought by the Neill family, who later gifted the gardens to Sheffield City Council in 1968.
  • Restoration (2001-Present): Following a period of neglect, the Friends of Whinfell Quarry Garden was formed in 2001 to restore the site, including the 1912 cascade

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