Its status was even confirmed in 2017 when Sheffield was named the UK’s sixth greenest city by mapping company Esri UK – the study found that more than 22 per cent of the local landscape was made up of greenery.
Fifteen of Sheffield’s parks have been deemed to be so well-managed that they have been given Green Flag Awards for 2020/21, some for the fifteenth year running.
The scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, is designed to set a benchmark for the UK and the rest of the world.
To win one of the annual awards, parks must meet the highest environmental standards, have exceptional facilities and be excellently maintained.
These are the sites with Green Flag Awards in Sheffield – and they’re all free to visit.
1. Wyming Brook
Wyming Brook, managed by the Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust, is a protected nature reserve. It was once set aside for the exclusive use of the nobility when it was part of the hunting and hawking grounds of Rivelin Chase.
Photo: Andrew Partridge
2. Devonshire Green
Devonshire Green, off Devonshire Street in the city centre, covers around 1.5 hectares and is grassed and landscaped to create an amphitheatre. Events are held there throughout the year, and there is a skate park too.
Photo: Dean Atkins
3. Ecclesall Woods
Ecclesall Woods, off Abbey Lane, is the largest ancient semi-natural woodland in South Yorkshire.
Photo: Andrew Roe
4. Meersbrook Park
Meersbrook Park - home to Bishops' House, one of Sheffield's oldest buildings - offers some of the finest views of the city skyline.
Photo: Chris Etchells