Rotswa one

Slow Way not verified yet. Verify Rotswa here.

Fairly well plotted but the paths on the ground don’t always match the map, only a fault that is discovered by a walk. Rather a lot of road walking and the green blue sections are challenging so difficult to see who this route would appeal to. I can’t fail it but I didn’t enjoy it.

I left Swallownest along the same road as Sheswa and the colourful planters again brighten up the otherwise nondescript location. The new houses at the top of the hill appears to have an identity crisis. The developers have erected a wall with the name Millstone Park while the road has been named Milestone Way. A typing error or spoiling tactics?

The pavement moves away from the east side so one or two road crossing are required to reach the cross field footpath. It emerges onto a quiet lane and we climb to community woodland where the paths fail to follow what’s on the map. I did consider a replot but there are other issues and I’ve not walked an alternative. Take care is all I can offer.

Back down alongside the river the path is mostly good including an excellent section of concrete boardwalk. Another climb which could be avoided but limited services at Treeton may be appreciated, although there are more on the road walking sections.

The viaduct and glass kiln dominate Catcliffe, that is if you ignore the motorway and A630 which fly over the village their concrete supports looking in need or attention. More shops here as we climb again as the river takes a course around the hill to the east.

The Trans Pennine Trail alongside the river looks good on the map but I didn’t find it a welcoming route alongside a high security factory fence. The river here had much evidence of recent flooding but the path is mostly above the high water line. The scoured river banks gave the appearance of tidal waters.

Hitting the edge of Rotherham I was attracted by the impressive competing architecture of former public houses with the brewery names on some to make clear what to expect when stepping inside.

While the final bit of riverside path is the best on offer for this walk and passes the rail and tram station, it does create an unnecessary loop so I question it’s benefit. I had visited Rotherham on other Slow Ways but on this occasion I had a wait for the tram so took a walk during which I discovered a thriving street market.

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