So when I took over the blog last week one of my first jobs was to think of something which I would like to feature as a series, I instantly thought of my two nieces who have just broken up from school and like so many of our mini Finance and Planning peeps will be looking for something to do over the summer, which doesn’t involve a trip to Cineworld and a call to the bank manager!

The series will be looking at the whole of Sheffield North, South, East and West. For the first I will be focusing on an area of Sheffield which is quite close to my heart as I live this way, Sheffield North!

Here I have picked out some of the best low cost activities from a great part of the city where, if you go far enough, it all gets a bit wild! And I’m not talking about the raves in Greno Woods.

If you would like to get involved in writing a post, you like me may feel passionate about the area you live in, or you have a suggestion for a great day out in the Sheffield area please let me know!

The first place on my pit stop of the north is Rivelin Valley which is located in Hillsborough just at the back of Malin Bridge, it’s a beautiful part of the city nestled right in the valley between Cross Pool and Stannington.

For the younger kids there is a water park, a shallow area in the river for paddling and an adventure playground, which I’m glad to see has been updated since the late 80’s early 90’s when I used to frequent it.

Let’s not forget the amazing countryside where Rivelin presides which offers some great opportunities for those of us that prefer to not play in the water, such as running, walking or tackling some of the river stepping stone obstacles to get to the Iron Throne.  Yes you heard it right, Rivelin has an Iron Throne. When you’re done there’s a park café, a chippy and come rain or shine always an ice cream van.

The second on my list is Lower Bradfield which is an absolutely breath taking part of the city. Famous for its rolling hills and reservoirs and now more recently the Bradfield Brewery there is plenty of free fun to be had and a few lovely pubs to visit when you are done.

Damflask Reservoir is perfect for long strolls with pushchairs and prams, and at this time of year it’s great for paddling too.  Why not take a picnic to enjoy at one of the many designated rest points.

For those who fancy a challenge there is the 10k Agden and Damflash Reservoir loop which is deceptively tough with its undulating pathways it follows the parameter of both reservoirs.

And finally Grenoside Woods a large ancient woodland close to the residential village of Grenoside jam packed with places to eat and drink, atop the Sheffield hills it has quite the reputation if you are a mountain biker, and annually hosts Steve Peat’s Steel City Downhill.

There are woodland walks and mountain bike trails for those of all abilities. On the 17th August there is a Wild Play and Woodland Skills Wild Side event run by the Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust where you can use hand tools and natural woodland materials to make a mallet and a tent peg or find out about trees and make a shelter.

Tune in for more next week where we will be discovering what Sheffield South has on offer!