There’s nothing quite like a big dose of fresh air to bring things back in order.
Us Yorkshire folk are seriously blessed to live so close to the Peak District and all its rolling hills.
The walk we’re bringing you today is something a little different, and looks like it’s been lifted straight from a Lord of the Rings set, reports The Manc.
The focal point of this Peak District stroll is Lud’s Church, a deep, almost eerie chasm in the heart of the woodland near Gradbach.
Image: Wikicommons
The chasm itself was caused by a landslip, and over the ages the walls have been covered in bright green moss.
The base of the 18-metre deep gorge has been lined with steps and boards so that visitors can stroll right through it.
You’ll notice the temperature drop suddenly as you walk down, and a strange dampness and darkness will greet you.
It’s not hard to imagine you’ve blinked and been transported to Middle Earth.
There are myths aplenty shrouding this area – one tale says that Robin Hood and Friar Tuck hid from the authorities in Lud’s Church.
Others say the chasm was actually created by the devil’s fingernail as he dug through the earth.
Image: Pixabay
The landmark was historically used as a place of worship in the 15th Century.
Lud’s Church is, however, only around 100m long, so while it’s awe-inspiring, you might want to extend your walk to see what else the area has to offer.
A short distance away is The Roaches, a rocky ridge with staggering views of the surrounding countryside.
There’s loads of wildlife to spot too, including grouse, buzzards and sparrowhawks.
If you take on the walk in late summer, you’re treated to miles of bright purple heather – but it’s pretty special all year round.
Countryfile has pulled together this six-mile circular to try.
Feature Image- Wikipedia Commons
The Sheff
The Kooks, Miles Kane and Milburn to open Rock n Roll Circus as the festival expands to four days
Just when it you thought that the Rock N Roll Circus Sheffield line-up was complete, organisers have confirmed a major expansion for 2026.
That's right, the festival will now open a day earlier on Thursday 27 August.
The brand-new opening night will be led by The Kooks, Milburn and Miles Kane - this is going to be a bank holiday weekend you'll never forget.
Further artists for Thursday 27 August - and across the entire four-day weekend - will be announced in the coming weeks, so keep your eyes peeled.
It's a welcome addition to what was already shaping up to be one of the standout festival weekends of the summer.
Image: Supplied
Friday will see The Streets headline with a special performance of A Grand Don’t Come For Free in full. Saturday will be led by one of the UK’s most exciting modern guitar bands, Wunderhorse, supported by Baxter Dury, Mercury Prize winners English Teacher, and London favourites Fat Dog, whilst Sunday will be closed by the one and only Richard Ashcroft.
Festival Director Ali O’Reilly said:“Opening the weekend with The Kooks performing Inside In / Inside Out in full, Milburn returning home and Miles Kane joining the bill feels like a statement night for Sheffield.
“What makes Rock N Roll Circus special is that we can celebrate iconic albums and artists that shaped a generation, while also giving space to the next wave of talent coming through. That mix of heritage and hometown pride is exactly what this festival is about.
“Sheffield has always brought an incredible atmosphere to Don Valley Bowl, and expanding the programme this way gives us even more room to create something memorable for the Bank Holiday weekend.”
Rock N Roll Circus Sheffield takes place at Don Valley Bowl from Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 August 2026, and you can get your tickets here.
Iconic Sheffield music venue The Leadmill launches Crowdfunder to secure a permanent new space
Clementine Hall
The Leadmill has launched a relocation Crowdfunder after leaving its original home.
You may remember last year the trials and tribulations The Leadmill endured to try stay on Eyre Street where it had been stood since 1980.
From absolutely legendary gigs to unforgettable moments, The Leadmill provided some of the best nights in Sheffield for over 45 years, before the team unfortunately had to vacate the premises.
There is now hope though, as The Leadmill has set up a Crowdfunder and is asking the people of Sheffield to help hit a £30,000 goal to relocate to a new premises.
You can donate as little or as much as you’re able to, and all donations will go towards securing a new venue, building infrastructure, ensuring full accessibility, and even preserving the legendary neon sign.
Posting to their social media, The Leadmill wrote: "Following the departure from our original home, we’re working towards securing a new permanent venue - a space where The Leadmill can continue to grow and bring people together.
"We’re still presenting live music, comedy, club nights, cinema and talks, in various other venues but what we’re wanting to build now is our long-term future. To help make that happen, we’ve launched a public crowdfunding campaign which you can access using the link in our bio.
"This isn’t about starting over from scratch. It’s about continuing something that matters to people. If The Leadmill has ever meant something to you, we’d love you to be part of what comes next.
"Whether you’re able to donate, share the campaign, or simply send support we really appreciate the help and will not forget it. With love always, Team Leadmill ❤️"
If you want to bring The Leadmill back just as much as we do, you can donate here.
Clementine Hall -
1st August 2025 
