Graves Park, Sheffield Review For Families

Graves Park in Sheffield is one of those places that really does have something for everyone. From the free animal farm to the big playgrounds, woodland walks and wide open fields, it’s a great place to enjoy a day out if you are in and around the Yorkshire area.

We’ve taken Matilda and Barney a few times now, usually making a beeline for the animals, but the rest of the park is just as good for letting off steam and enjoying time outdoors.

Where is it located?

Graves Park is in the south of Sheffield, sitting between Norton, Woodseats and Meadowhead. It’s around three miles from the city centre and really easy to get to by car or bus. The main entrance for the animal farm is on Hemsworth Road, but there are other car parks dotted around the park too.

History of the Park and Animal Park

The park was developed between 1926 and 1936 by Alderman J.G. Graves, who donated over 240 acres of land to Sheffield to stop it from being built on. Over the years, the park grew to include sports pitches, woodland trails and eventually the animal farm, which has been running since the 1970s. Today, the farm is home to all sorts of rare and native breeds, from Highland cattle to Tamworth pigs, and is one of the main reasons families flock here (pun intended).

Volunteers from the Friends of Graves Park group also help keep the park looking its best.

What is there to do?

Animal Farm

The animal farm is the highlight for many families, and the best bit is that it’s completely free. You’ll find goats, pigs, donkeys, cattle, sheep and plenty of chickens and ducks. The barns and outdoor pens make it easy for children to see the animals up close. There’s plenty to do and you can easily spend an hour or two here.

Play Areas

There are two playgrounds to choose from. The main one next to the café is big and well equipped, with swings, a sandpit, climbing frames, a zip wire and toddler-friendly kit. There’s a smaller playground on the far side of the park too if you fancy a change of scenery.

Trails and Nature

Graves Park is a mix of meadows, woodland and streams, which makes it perfect for a family wander. Some paths are smooth and tarmacked, while others take you deeper into the woods and can get muddy after rain, great for wellies and a bit of exploring. 

Sports and Events

The park is packed with sports facilities, including tennis courts, bowling greens, football pitches and cricket pitches. There’s also a golf practice area. On top of that, Graves Park hosts a popular Country Show each year, with animals, stalls and rides, plus a food festival that brings in loads of local traders. On quieter weekends, it’s just a lovely place to kick a ball around or enjoy a picnic.

Facilities

• Café: The Rose Garden Café is right next to the main playground and serves hot and cold drinks, snacks and ice creams.
  
• Toilets and Baby Changing: Toilets, including disabled facilities, are available at the café. Baby changing is provided.
  
• Parking: The main car park on Hemsworth Road (next to the farm) is pay-and-display, while the smaller car parks at Cobnar Road and Charles Ashmore Road are free but can fill quickly. On big event days, it’s best to arrive early.
  
• Shops/Stalls: There is a little gift shop inside the Animal Park.

Would you recommend it?

Definitely, Graves Park is one of those classic family days out where you can spend as much or as little time as you want. The fact that the farm is free makes it a big draw, and as a result, it can get really busy. It’s incredibly varied too, with animals, playgrounds, trails, sports, and open fields, which means both younger and older kids are entertained.

There are a couple of things to bear in mind: it can get very busy during big events, and some paths are muddy or uneven, so sturdy shoes are a good idea. The café is handy but quite simple, so we’d recommend bringing some snacks or a picnic too. Overall, though, it’s a fantastic spot for families and we’d happily go back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a café?

Yes, the Rose Garden Café is right by the main playground and serves drinks, snacks and ice creams.

What is your favourite part?

For us, it’s the animal farm. Barney loves seeing the pigs and donkeys up close, and Matilda enjoys spotting some of the rarer animals. The playground is a close second!

How much is it?

Completely free. Both the park and the animal farm are free to enter. You’ll just need to pay for parking in the main car park, and any extras if you go during events.

Are there bike trails?

There aren’t dedicated mountain bike trails, but many of the paths are suitable for cycling. It’s best for gentle family rides rather than serious off-road cycling.

Is there suitable parking?

Yes, there are several car parks around the park. The main farm car park is pay-and-display, while the smaller ones are free but often busier. People also park all around the vicinity, but it’s a suburban area, so please be mindful of the people who live there.

Do they run Parkruns or regular runs?

While Graves Park doesn’t currently host a weekly Parkrun, it’s used for plenty of organised walks and running events. It’s also part of the Sheffield Round Walk, which passes through the park.

Is it good for both younger and older children?

Yes, the variety of playgrounds, trails and animals makes it ideal for both. Little ones can enjoy the farm and toddler play equipment, while older children can explore the woods, take on the bigger play frames and run around the open fields. We have a five-year age gap with our kids, and both enjoyed it. 

Pros & Cons

Park enjoyment rating

Last Updated on October 1, 2025 by Ryan