Bradfield: A Historic Village on the Edge of the Peak District
The village of Bradfield lies just 7 miles out of Sheffield but is surrounded by beautiful, wild moorland countryside, on the border of the South Yorkshire Peak District. It has the distinction of being the largest civil parish in England, although in fact it is made up of two villages, High Bradfield, which is situated on the hillside, and Low Bradfield, which sits down in the valley alongside the River Loxley.
Planning a visit? Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from top attractions and walking routes to practical tips for making the most of your trip to this beautiful South Yorkshire village.
High Bradfield
High Bradfield is a historic place, dominated by a beautiful Grade I listed church, St Nicholas, built in the 1480s in the Gothic Revival style. It includes parts of an earlier 12th Century church, and is thought to stand on the site of an even earlier Anglo-Saxon place of worship.
High Bradfield also contains extensive ancient earthworks at Bailey Hill on the northwest edge of the village. The earthworks consist of a 10.5m high mound surrounded by a 95m long curved trench. It is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, although its exact origins are unclear and it is not known whether it is a Norman motte and bailey castle or a Saxon fort. Excavations from the 18th Century revealed squared stones that had been cut using tools. In the opposite direction on the southeast edge of the village is Castle Hill, a ringwork site marked on old maps as a Saxon encampment, although again the precise purpose of the construction is unknown.
Notable Buildings
The village today is a picturesque place, perfect for a day out. High Bradfield boasts some notable old buildings, including the original parish workhouse. This was operational as a workhouse from 1759 to 1847, but in the 1870s was converted into private homes. There is also a Grade II listed building known as The Old Post Office, built in 1835 of local gritstone with a slate roof.
High Bradfield also has a lovely pub, The Old Horns Inn, which serves good food and has a pub garden that overlooks the Upper Derwent Valley.
Low Bradfield
Low Bradfield is less historic, much of it having been destroyed in the Great Sheffield Flood of 1864, but no less beautiful. It is centred around a beautiful village cricket ground and park. It also has a great pub, The Plough, and a lovely shop and tea room in Flask End.
Bradfield is also the home of the Bradfield Brewery, renowned locally for its fabulous ‘Farmers’ ales.
The Surrounding Countryside
There are numerous walks from the village into the surrounding Peak District countryside. The parish of Bradfield includes a number of picturesque reservoirs, including Agden, Damflask, Dale Dike and Strines. It also covers extensive areas of wild moorland, including Bradfield, Midhope and Broomhead Moors.
Where to Stay in Bradfield
Bradfield offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From The Old Horns Inn to charming guest houses and self-catering cottages, there is something for every visitor.
Accommodation Options
- The Old Horns Inn – lovely pub with rooms
- The Plough – great pub in Low Bradfield
- Charming guest houses and B&Bs
- Self-catering cottages in the surrounding countryside
- Camping and caravan sites nearby
Top Tips for Your Bradfield Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the moorland and reservoirs. Autumn brings stunning colours to the countryside.
- Getting There: Bradfield is accessible by car from Sheffield via the A6101, just 7 miles from the city centre.
- Parking: There is parking available in both High Bradfield and Low Bradfield.
- Don’t Miss: St Nicholas Church, the ancient earthworks at Bailey Hill, and the Bradfield Brewery’s ‘Farmers’ ales.
- Explore: The surrounding moorland and reservoirs offer excellent walking opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bradfield
Is Bradfield worth visiting?
Absolutely! Bradfield is a beautiful village with fascinating history, ancient earthworks, a historic church, and stunning moorland countryside.
What is Bradfield famous for?
Bradfield is famous for being the largest civil parish in England, its historic St Nicholas Church, the ancient earthworks at Bailey Hill, and the Bradfield Brewery.
What are High Bradfield and Low Bradfield?
Bradfield is made up of two villages: High Bradfield, situated on the hillside, and Low Bradfield, which sits in the valley alongside the River Loxley.
How old is St Nicholas Church?
St Nicholas Church was built in the 1480s in the Gothic Revival style, and includes parts of an earlier 12th Century church.
What is Bailey Hill?
Bailey Hill is a Scheduled Ancient Monument on the northwest edge of High Bradfield, consisting of a 10.5m high mound and a curved trench. Its exact origins are unknown.
Is there a brewery in Bradfield?
Yes, Bradfield is home to the Bradfield Brewery, renowned locally for its ‘Farmers’ ales.
For more information about visiting the area, explore the official Peak District National Park visiting guide and plan your adventure in this remarkable part of South Yorkshire.
🥾 Explore Near Bradfield
Discover walks, attractions, pubs, and more within the local area
- Castleton Visitor Centre 9.1 miles
- Bradfield via Dale Dike Reservoir Walk (5.3 miles) 0.3 miles
- The Secret Side of Ladybower Walk (8.1 miles) 5.5 miles
- Derwent Edge (2.5 miles) 5.5 miles
- Stanage Edge Walk (2 miles) 5.8 miles
- The Yorkshire Bridge Inn 6.2 miles
- The Scotsman’s Pack 6.7 miles
- The George 6.9 miles
- Colemans Deli 6.9 miles
- Cintra’s in Hathersage 6.9 miles
- Holly Cottage 2.5 miles
- Oak Cottage 2.5 miles
- 4 Pheasant Lane 2.6 miles
- 3 Pheasant Lane, Bolsterstone 2.6 miles
- Peveril Castle 9.2 miles
- Peak Cavern 9.3 miles
- Treak Cliff Cavern 9.7 miles
- Speedwell Cavern 9.7 miles
🎪 Coming Up
Distances are straight-line and approximate. Actual travel distances may vary.
