Location: 53.4811665, -1.6878572
The WW2 Tank Training Target Winch in Sheffield stands as a rare and tangible reminder of the city’s involvement in wartime military preparation. Located in the rural outskirts, this historic feature is a relic from the Second World War when parts of the Peak District and South Yorkshire landscapes were repurposed for armoured training exercises. The winch mechanism itself was used to pull or reposition mock targets across open ground, helping tank crews refine their aim and coordination.
Today, this remnant of wartime engineering is a point of interest for history enthusiasts and military researchers. Although small and unassuming at first glance, it carries great historical weight. Visitors can combine a trip to the winch with nearby countryside walks, allowing them to appreciate the contrast between the region’s peaceful nature and its past strategic utility. Information signage is minimal, so guided tours or local heritage group resources can provide deeper insights. Its preservation contributes to Sheffield’s broader narrative of industrial and military heritage, underscoring the city’s multifaceted role during one of the most pivotal periods in modern history.