Best attractions and places to see around Oxspring include a blend of natural beauty and historic sites, with many options for outdoor activities. The village is situated within Barnsley, offering access to reservoirs, riverside walks along the River Don, and scenic countryside trails. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes ranging from woodlands to moorlands, providing varied experiences throughout the seasons.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
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Langsett Reservoir boasts well-maintained paths suitable for various abilities, making it ideal for walking, cycling, or even a leisurely stroll. The surrounding woodland and moorland offer diverse landscapes, changing beautifully with the seasons. The dam wall itself is an impressive feat of engineering, and walking across it provides great views of the reservoir and surrounding countryside.
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An Ethel summit at 548m above sea level with stunning views over the moorlands
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The embankment of Langsett Reservoir is 352m/1, 156ft long and has a depth of 35m/117ft, to the old river bed beneath. When full, the reservoir holds 59 million m3 or 1,409 million gallons of water. The castellated valvehouse at the northern end of the dam wall is supposed to have been modelled on the gatehouse of Lancaster Castle. The reservoir took 14 years to build, between 1889 and 1904. The reservoir is now controlled by Yorkshire Water, and its naturally acidic, brown water is treated at the modern Langsett Treatment Works just below the embankment wall to the right.
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I definitely prefer riding the Strines from north to south, rolling down to Ladybower Reservoir at the end. Do visit this road when the heather is in bloom. The purple moors are stunning.
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Plank Gate is a lot of fun and you can use it to get to and from Stocksbridge
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Oxspring is surrounded by natural beauty. You can enjoy peaceful walks and stunning views at Broomhead Reservoir and More Hall Reservoir. The River Don flows through Oxspring, offering pleasant riverside walks, and locals even identify spots suitable for swimming. Langsett Reservoir is another popular spot, providing a moderate loop walk with great views and serving as a base for longer excursions into the Peak District.
Yes, the area around Oxspring features several interesting historical sites and landmarks. You can visit the historic Thurgoland Tunnel, known for its echo, or the impressive Hartcliff Tower, a folly offering panoramic views near Penistone. In Barnsley, Locke Park features a charming historic bandstand and a tower with views of the parkland. Additionally, Castle Dam in Sheffield is a historic reservoir now popular for wildlife and scenic views.
For families, Oxspring offers the local Oxspring Playground and a Riverside Picnic Area at Bower Dell, perfect for a relaxed outing. Nearby, Langsett Reservoir is considered family-friendly with its accessible paths. The Plank Gate section of the Trans Pennine Trail is also suitable for families, offering a wide, groomed gravel path through woodland.
The region boasts several spots for breathtaking views. Margery Hill Trig Point, a 1,791-foot (546 m) summit, offers far-reaching views over Howden Edge. Similarly, High Stones Summit, the highest point in Sheffield and South Yorkshire, provides stunning 360° views of the rugged moorland. Both locations are great for a picnic while enjoying the scenery.
Oxspring is an excellent base for outdoor activities. You can find a variety of routes for different sports. For easy hikes, explore options like the Cycling Sheep Sculpture loop or the Thurgoland Tunnel loop. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the Bretton Country Park loop or the Thurgoland Tunnel loop. Gravel biking enthusiasts have challenging options like the Elsecar Heritage Centre loop or the Derwent Reservoir loop. You can find more details on these routes in our guides for easy hikes, cycling, and gravel biking around Oxspring.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Margery Hill Trig Point is a challenging summit offering extensive views, though be aware the area can be very boggy. The Cranberry Clough Descent is another challenging spot, particularly popular with mountain bikers for its steep and rocky sections.
The natural landscapes around Oxspring, including woodlands and moorlands, offer diverse experiences that change with the seasons. While specific conditions vary, spring and summer generally provide the most pleasant weather for walking and cycling. However, the area's beauty can be appreciated year-round, with autumn offering vibrant colors and winter providing a stark, tranquil landscape, though some areas like Margery Hill can be very boggy and wet in colder, wetter months.
Oxspring is home to welcoming local pubs perfect for a meal or refreshment after exploring the countryside. Popular choices include The Wagon & Horses, Traveller's Inn, and Smithy Arms. Additionally, near Langsett Reservoir, there is a nice cafe and pub close to the parking area.
While Oxspring itself is more focused on natural beauty, the wider area offers cultural sites. Cannon Hall Museum, Park and Gardens in Barnsley provides a blend of museum exhibits and parkland. A bit further afield, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park (approximately 10.5 km from Oxspring) features numerous sculptures by various artists within a large park setting, offering a unique connection with nature and art.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural beauty and the variety of outdoor activities available. Many enjoy the peaceful walks around reservoirs like Langsett Reservoir and the sense of wilderness found on trails like the Trans Pennine Trail. The far-reaching views from summits such as Margery Hill Trig Point and High Stones Summit are also highly praised, offering great spots for picnics and admiring the landscape.
When exploring trails around Oxspring in winter, it's important to be aware of potential conditions. Areas around summits like Margery Hill Trig Point can become very boggy and wet, with some peat bogs being quite deep. Proper waterproof footwear and appropriate gear are highly recommended for comfort and safety during winter walks.
Parking is available at several key locations. For exploring the River Don and the Oxspring Playground, there is a car park nearby. Langsett Reservoir also has a free car park with toilets, though it can get busy, especially on weekends. For other trails, it's advisable to check specific starting points for available parking facilities.


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