Dovedale Walk and Map

This first Dovedale walk is a simple stroll up and down either side of the wonderful River Dove, with a little stepping stone bridge to enjoy half way around.

This option is for those of you that don't have too much time but still want to enjoy the wonderful scenery that this site offers. Heading from the car park, the left side of the river is flat hard surface and suitable for wheels, but the other side on the way back is too bumpy, so if you have a wheelchair or buggy, take the path on the left side of the river there and back instead.

In stark contrast to the first casual route option, this second short walk option is for the adventurous amongst you!

It is basically a very steep climb up to the ridge of the Thorpe Cloud, which actually requires a bit of scrambling at the top, and it rewards you with some breathtaking panoramic views of the entire area.

Please be very careful on all aspects of this route as there are dangerous drops, and make sure you have the appropriate clothing and good weather conditions when you go up.

This third beautiful walk is an alternative to the main and popular Dove Dale routes, but it's still a wonderful adventure in this lovely area.

If you head clockwise, the walk heads along the main River Dove initially, where you can enjoy the river and then cross the picturesque stepping stones.

Then, instead of heading deeeper into the Dove Dale, it continues around the base of the majestic Thorpe Cloud hill and then through countryside onto the village of Thorpe. The walk consists of woodland, open fields and the scenic River Dove.

There is a little section of road walking on a quiet lane, some mild hills to climb at times, and the option of refreshments at the cafe near the start.

This fourth route option is a beautiful but very strenuous and adventurous walk that heads a lot deeper into the Dove Dale valley.

If you head clockwise, you'll first enjoy a long walk through lovely countryside and around the base of Bunster Hill. There is an optional shortcut marked on the map where you can scramble over the top of this hill, but this isn't for the faint hearted!

You don't get off scott free though as eventually, you'll start climbing a very steep hill anyway and then after a while you'll cut into the woods and descend a very steep woodland path until you reach the iconic Ilam's Rock and then head back to the start along the picturesque River Dove Path.

This fifth option is basically the glory walk of Dove Dale valley and takes you all the way along the river and through the majestic valley until you reach the little village of Milldale.

After a little explore of the village, you'll then head back on the other side of the river, joining up with the path you used on the way there after a while.

There will be plenty of photo opportunities as you walk within this beautiful scenery and you'll visit the Dove Holes, the intriguing Ilam Rock, Lovers Leap and the iconic stepping stones as you go.