Christmas opening times 2024: We are closed to all but essential services over the Christmas period. You can still use our online services to report, apply and pay 24/7.
Ecclesall Woods
Ecclesall Woods is the largest ancient semi-natural woodland in South Yorkshire and the "jewel in the crown" of our 1,500 hectare woodland estate.
The J G Graves Woodland Discovery Centre is located at its heart and is a bespoke indoor and outdoor facility, perfect for hosting a spectrum of events or simply as a starting point for enjoying a walk in the woods. When you visit, immerse yourself in towering trees, Q-pits, and the soothing sounds of birdsong. No matter which path you choose, there are numerous trails to explore.
Ecclesall Woods is open at all times and there is no admission charge.
The Woodland Discovery Centre is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm.
Features and facilities
The Woodland Discovery Centre
- craft courses
- public events
- family activities
- meetng rooms
- social hire
- weddings
Woodland Coffee Stop
- hot and cold drinks
- snacks
- light lunches
- outdoor and sheltered seating areas
Toilets
- inside Woodland Discovery Centre during opening hours
- in car park
Abbeydale Miniature Railway
- rides for children
Getting to the park
Walking and cycling
The woods are a 30 minute cycle from the city centre.
Public transport
The nearest tram bus stop is on Abbey Lane and takes around 30 minutes to get to from the city centre.
About the landscape
Ecclesall Woods is a beautiful site managed for the benefit of both wildlife and visitors. With over 15km of public footpaths weaving through the forest, there is plenty to explore and enjoy.
Ecclesall Woods is considered ancient, with its history traceable on maps dating back to the 1600s. The woodland's unique ecology is shaped by soils containing seeds linked to ancient habitats, making it a living testament to the region's natural heritage. Dominated by native oak—both English and sessile—and birch—downy and silver—Ecclesall Woods also hosts a variety of other native species, including alder, ash, elm, hawthorn, hazel, field maple and rowan.
In addition, non-native species such as beech, hornbeam, larch, Scots pine, sweet chestnut and sycamore were introduced during the early 19th century.
The site is also of significant archaeological and historical interest, with evidence of human activity dating from pre-history to the Middle Ages. The woods are rich in features that reflect centuries of traditional woodland management and industries. For over 200 years, Ecclesall Woods was managed as "coppice with standards", playing a key role in the industrial development of Sheffield.
