Explore Sheffield's largest ancient woodland through scenic trails, family activities, and seasonal workshops at this free Discovery Centre.

The J G Graves Woodland Discovery Centre is nestled in the heart of Ecclesall Woods, Sheffield's largest ancient woodland, offering both indoor and outdoor facilities for families and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can begin their experience at the Discovery Centre's central atrium, which features views of a wildlife pond and bird feeding station, where seasonal guides help plan explorations through the woodland. The venue provides numerous walking trails suitable for all abilities, winding through ancient woodlands, towering trees, and Q-pits while visitors enjoy birdsong and natural surroundings. Free resources including seasonal spotter guides and archaeological trails enhance the experience for curious explorers of all ages. The Woodland Coffee Stop, located at the Discovery Centre, offers refreshments including hot and cold sandwiches, jacket potatoes, cakes, and beverages, with both sheltered and outdoor seating available. Regular activities cater to families with young children, featuring weekly walking and run groups, toddler groups, seasonal family workshops, and outdoor craft courses. The woods remain open year-round, with the Discovery Centre, car park, and café operating Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm, plus bank holiday Mondays. This makes it an ideal destination for families seeking free outdoor exploration, educational activities, and community engagement.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

I

Ian Warwick

2 months ago

A great place for coffee and ice cream after a walk through the fabulous woods. The coffee is excellent 👍.

C

Cathal Lindsay

5 months ago

Always something new to enjoy here. My favourite woods and just on my doorstep too

H

HC

a year ago

I got married here in August and had a wonderful day! Yvette, the venue coordinator, is amazing and worked so hard to make our day perfect! A beautiful venue, I would definitely recommend for a relaxed wedding day

M

Marianne Morgan

3 years ago

Perfect setting for an early Autumn walk. Note the leaves on the map! Gorgeous sunlight filtering throught the trees. Blackberries ripe for picking. Birdsong clear and calming away from traffic noise I'd forgotten how wonderful the woods are

E

Ernesto Felix

6 years ago

This natural area is within the city 10 min drive. The discovery centre has periodically events and tour through the woods. What I like is that all the staff is nice and that they are inclusive when it comes to the events. I went to the fungi walk tour and I learned a lot since experts were with us during the tour. They also have bird and olant tours.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026