Dovedale – The Limestone Gorge of the Peak District
A dramatic limestone gorge in the Peak District, famous for its river, crags, stepping stones and ancient caves – a timeless landscape of natural beauty and legend.
Dovedale is a dramatic limestone ravine in the Peak District National Park, famed for its towering crags, the River Dove, and the iconic stepping stones. Owned by the National Trust and designated a National Nature Reserve, it offers ancient woodland, rare flora, and caves that have sheltered humans for over 13,000 years. A magnet for walkers, anglers, and nature lovers, it combines geological wonder with centuries of literary and romantic history in a quintessentially English landscape.
A brief summary to Dovedale
- Ashbourne, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds, especially around the stepping stones.
- Wear sturdy footwear with good grip; the paths can be rocky, muddy, and slippery, particularly near the river and stepping stones.
- Bring binoculars to spot kingfishers, dippers and other birds along the river, and look for wildflowers in the ash woods.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Tissington Trail or a trip to nearby Ilam Park for a longer, more varied day out.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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By car
Drive to the Dovedale Car Park, located about 7 km north of Ashbourne. The car park charges a fee and can fill up quickly on weekends and in peak season; arrive early for the best chance of a space.
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By public transport and walk
Take a bus to Ashbourne and then walk about 4.5 km north along quiet country roads and footpaths to reach the southern end of Dovedale near Thorpe Cloud.
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By foot from Ilam Park
Start from Ilam Park and follow a scenic 5–6 km walking route along the River Manifold and River Hamps, joining Dovedale near the stepping stones; this is a moderate walk with some elevation.
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By bike via Tissington Trail
Cycle along the Tissington Trail from Ashbourne or nearby villages; the trail runs close to Dovedale and provides access points to the valley on a well‑surfaced, traffic‑free path.
Dovedale location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Dovedale
A River Carved Through Time
More than 360 million years ago, this valley lay beneath a shallow tropical sea, where coral reefs and marine life left behind layers of limestone. Over millennia, the River Dove cut through this rock, carving a deep, narrow gorge flanked by sheer crags and pinnacles. The result is Dovedale: a dramatic limestone ravine where the river flows clear and cool over gravel beds, framed by steep wooded slopes. The name itself may come from an ancient word meaning 'black', likely referring to the river’s dark, shadowed course through the gorge. Today, the river remains a haven for trout, immortalised in Izaak Walton’s 17th-century classic *The Compleat Angler*, which helped make this stretch of water a legendary spot for anglers.Walking Among Crags and Caves
The heart of Dovedale is a walker’s paradise, threaded with well‑maintained paths that follow the river between towering limestone formations. Thorpe Cloud, a prominent hill at the southern end, rises like a sentinel above the valley, its summit offering sweeping views across the White Peak. Along the river, natural caves such as Reynard’s Cave and the Dove Holes have sheltered humans since the Upper Paleolithic, with evidence of hunters, Neolithic tomb use, and later Bronze Age occupation. Some of the artefacts found here, including a hoard of Late Iron Age and Roman coins, are now displayed in local museums. The caves and crags create a sense of wild, ancient mystery, even as the valley remains easily accessible to modern visitors.The Stepping Stones and Victorian Charm
One of Dovedale’s most beloved features is the set of stepping stones that cross the River Dove. Laid in the 1890s to help Victorian tourists navigate the river, these flat limestone slabs form a picturesque, slightly wobbly path across the shallow water. They’ve become an attraction in their own right, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year who delight in hopping from stone to stone. In 2010, controversy erupted when limestone slabs were added on top of most stones to reduce slipping, but the original character of the crossing has largely been preserved. Nearby, the narrow medieval packhorse bridge at Milldale, once used for transporting fabrics from local mills, adds to the valley’s timeless, storybook atmosphere.A Landscape of Legends and Romance
Dovedale is rich in local tales and romantic associations. The dramatic Lover’s Leap, a limestone promontory accessed by steps built by Italian prisoners of war in the Second World War, is said to be the spot where a young woman, believing her lover lost in the Napoleonic Wars, leapt to her death – only to survive when her skirt caught in a tree. Her later reunion with her still‑living lover has turned the crag into a symbol of enduring love. The valley’s beauty also attracted Romantic‑era painters and writers, who captured its crags, dells, and woodlands in art and verse. This blend of natural drama and human story gives Dovedale a uniquely evocative character.Nature, Wildlife and Conservation
Dovedale is not only a geological and historical treasure but also an ecological one. Designated a National Nature Reserve in 2006 and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, it protects some of England’s finest ash woodland and a rich variety of rare plants, including wild lily of the valley. Along the river, keen eyes may spot kingfishers darting over the water, dippers bobbing on rocks, and shy water voles along the banks. The National Trust’s ownership since 1934 has helped safeguard this fragile ecosystem, balancing public access with conservation. The old Ashbourne to Buxton railway line, which once brought Victorian tourists to Thorpe Cloud station, has been converted into the Tissington Trail, a quiet footpath and cycle route that now serves walkers and cyclists exploring the wider White Peak landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Peak District National Park Authority
18.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Kedleston Hall
20.4 km
Explore the stunning Kedleston Hall, a historical mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, perfect for a family day out in Derbyshire.
Lud's Church
20.8 km
Discover Lud's Church, a stunning natural chasm in the Peak District, perfect for hiking and immersing in nature's beauty.
Millers Dale Viaduct
21.0 km
Experience the breathtaking Millers Dale Viaduct on the Monsal Trail, a stunning bridge offering rich history and picturesque views in the heart of the Peak District.
Chatsworth House
21.2 km
Explore the grandeur of Chatsworth House, a historical manor in the Peak District boasting stunning gardens and rich heritage.
Solomon’s Temple
21.6 km
A scenic Victorian folly atop Grin Low Hill offering breathtaking 360-degree views over Buxton and the Peak District.
Hob Hurst's House
22.1 km
Explore the mystique of Hob Hurst's House, a captivating historical landmark set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Beeley Moor.
Poole's Cavern
22.5 km
Discover the enchanting underground world of Poole's Cavern, a geological marvel nestled in the heart of Buxton's scenic country park.
Wingfield Manor
22.9 km
Explore Wingfield Manor, a stunning heritage site in South Wingfield, where history meets picturesque landscapes and architectural beauty.
Tutbury Castle
23.8 km
Uncover the rich history and stunning beauty of Tutbury Castle, a medieval marvel in England, where the past meets the present.
Eagle Stone
24.6 km
A dramatic gritstone outcrop on Baslow Edge, offering sweeping Peak District views and a touch of ancient legend.
Birchen Edge
24.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views and exhilarating adventures at Birchen Edge, a premier viewpoint in the scenic Peak District.
Baslow Edge
25.1 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Derby Ghost Walk and Jail
25.3 km
Explore Derby's haunted history with the Derby Ghost Walk and Jail, where chilling tales and historical intrigue collide.
Pickford's House
25.4 km
Explore the stunning architecture and rich history of Pickford's House Museum, a Georgian gem in the heart of Derby, perfect for history enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stepping Stones, River Dove
1.0 km
Iconic limestone stepping stones crossing the River Dove in a stunning Peak District valley, blending natural beauty with rich history and adventure.
National Trust - Ilam Park
1.9 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and historic charm of Ilam Park, a National Trust gem in the Peak District with stunning views and woodland walks.
Tissington
3.0 km
Four centuries of continuous family ownership in a progressive Jacobean mansion set within a picturesque Peak District estate village.
Thor's Cave
5.5 km
Explore the majestic limestone cavern of Thor's Cave, a historic and scenic highlight in the Manifold Valley of the Peak District.
Peak Wildlife Park
9.4 km
Discover exotic wildlife and immersive animal encounters on the edge of the Staffordshire Peak District.
Carsington Water
9.5 km
Explore Derbyshire’s scenic reservoir with walking, cycling, watersports, and wildlife watching around a vast 8-mile trail.
The Kugel Stone
9.5 km
Discover the mesmerizing one-tonne granite Kugel Stone at Carsington Water, effortlessly spinning on a thin film of water in a serene natural setting.
National Trust - The Old Manor
10.0 km
Discover the medieval charm and tranquil gardens of The Old Manor, a historic stone hall nestled in Derbyshire’s scenic countryside.
Harboro Rocks
10.1 km
Explore the dramatic limestone cliffs and panoramic views of Harboro Rocks, a natural gem in Derbyshire’s Peak District.
Alton Towers Waterpark
11.0 km
Splash into year-round aquatic thrills with water coasters, slides, and lazy rivers at Alton Towers Waterpark.
Sharkbait Reef
11.1 km
Explore the enchanting underwater world of Sharkbait Reef, a pirate-themed aquarium featuring sharks, rays, and interactive marine experiences at Alton Towers.
Alton Towers
11.3 km
Experience the thrill and magic of Alton Towers, the UK’s ultimate theme park destination blending adrenaline rides with enchanting landscapes.
Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow
11.5 km
Explore the ancient Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow in Derbyshire, a fascinating historical landmark steeped in British history and natural beauty.
Oblivion
11.7 km
Experience the world’s first dive coaster with Oblivion’s heart-stopping vertical drop and smooth thrills at Alton Towers.
Catholic Youth Retreat Centre - Alton Castle
12.1 km
A majestic Gothic Revival castle blending medieval heritage, spiritual sanctuary, and scenic views above the Churnet Valley.
Essential places to dine
Lamplight Restaurant Ltd
6.4 km
Discover innovative Anglo-French cuisine in a cozy, family-run setting at Ashbourne’s charming Lamplight Restaurant.
The Manifold Inn
8.1 km
Charming 3-star inn and restaurant in Hulme End, perfect for exploring the scenic Peak District and Manifold Valley trails.
The Bulls Head
14.4 km
A beloved village pub in Monyash serving hearty British classics with generous portions in a warm, rustic setting.
The Bull I' Th' Thorn Pub & Pizzeria | Peak District
14.5 km
Historic Peak District pub and pizzeria in Buxton, cherished for its heritage, lively atmosphere, and scenic countryside setting.
The Tasting Club Restaurant
15.4 km
An intimate tasting menu experience blending rustic charm and refined flavors in Ashbourne’s historic Buttermilk Coffee House.
The Seafood Cave & Grill
16.1 km
Discover premium Scottish seafood in a cozy cave-like setting, where warm hospitality and exquisite flavors meet in Matlock Bath.
The Orangery Restaurant
16.7 km
Refined British dining in a historic setting within Audley St Elphin’s Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil gardens near the Peak District.
The Lighthouse Restaurant
16.8 km
An intimate fine dining gem in Derbyshire offering inventive seasonal British cuisine with impeccable service and a cozy countryside setting.
Stones
17.1 km
Elegant modern British dining with Mediterranean flair beside Matlock’s scenic River Derwent, perfect for relaxed yet refined meals.
The Peacock at Rowsley
17.5 km
Historic riverside inn offering refined rooms, acclaimed dining, and exclusive fishing on Derbyshire’s scenic Haddon Estate.
The Manners, Bakewell
17.6 km
Traditional Robinsons pub in Bakewell serving excellent local ales and renowned pub food, with dog-friendly rooms and a spacious beer garden.
Piedaniel's
17.9 km
A charming family-run French restaurant in Bakewell offering refined cuisine, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service for memorable dining experiences.
Restaurant Lovage by Lee Smith
17.9 km
Innovative modern English cuisine with Michelin-starred finesse in a cozy Bakewell setting, blending local heritage with contemporary elegance.
The Woodyard
18.0 km
Historic marble works turned vibrant restaurant with fresh homemade food and a scenic riverside beer garden in the heart of Bakewell.
The Ship Inn
18.1 km
A cozy British pub in Tean offering hearty traditional dishes, friendly service, and excellent value in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Handmade Design
6.4 km
Discover unique, sustainable handmade gifts from UK artisans in the charming heart of Ashbourne’s Market Place.
Shop&Museum
14.4 km
Discover railway heritage, a charming bookshop, and vintage café at Wirksworth Station on the scenic Ecclesbourne Valley Railway.
Little Bow
15.6 km
Discover unique fashion accessories and gifts in the charming village setting of Little Bow Boutique, Cromford’s stylish hidden gem.
Equatorial Shop
15.8 km
Discover vibrant fair trade fashion and crafts at Equatorial Shop, Matlock’s hub for ethical, colorful, and culturally rich shopping.
The Old Apothecary Shop
16.1 km
Step into Victorian charm and natural wellness at The Old Apothecary Shop, Matlock Bath’s historic haven for handmade beauty and nostalgic gifts.
Punnydukes
17.0 km
Whimsical gift shop brimming with unique treasures across multiple enchanting floors.
Ashgate Hospice Matlock Shop
17.3 km
Discover bargains with heart at Ashgate Hospice Matlock Shop, supporting vital palliative care across North Derbyshire.
The Original Factory Shop (Matlock)
17.4 km
Affordable shopping with big-brand discounts in the heart of Matlock, offering fashion, beauty, and homeware under one roof.
The Lost Cauldron
17.4 km
Where an antique cauldron sparked a magical dream, now a beloved destination for enchanted treasures.
Bella Figura
17.6 km
Matlock’s bespoke bridal and vintage boutique offering personalized wedding dresses and expert alterations with a vintage charm.
Bon Voyage Bakewell
17.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Bon Voyage Bakewell, nestled in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
The Derbyshire Emporium
17.8 km
Local artisan gifts and homemade refreshments in the heart of Bakewell's charming town centre.
Edge of the World
17.8 km
Boutique clothing and accessories shop in Bakewell offering quality fashion with a welcoming atmosphere and expert service.
Perfect Gifts Bakewell
17.8 km
Discover unique local gifts and heartfelt treasures in the cozy charm of Perfect Gifts Bakewell, your go-to shop for thoughtful souvenirs.
The Works
17.8 km
Affordable arts, crafts, books, and toys in the vibrant Peak Village outlet near Matlock.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Flying Childers Inn
15.3 km
A cozy, dog-friendly country pub in Stanton in Peak offering fresh, mostly vegan fare and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
Twenty Ten
17.1 km
A rustic and lively bar in Matlock, offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Monk Bar
17.1 km
Monk Bar Matlock: Stylish cocktails, vibrant nights, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Derbyshire.
The Tipsy Toad
17.1 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Matlock with funky vibes, great drinks, and friendly staff, open late for memorable nights out.
The Thorn Tree Inn
17.6 km
A traditional Matlock pub offering hearty homemade food, excellent ales, and stunning views over the Derbyshire Dales and Riber Castle.
The Newsroom
17.7 km
A cozy micro pub in Matlock offering an excellent selection of local craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere for all beer lovers.
The Lazy Trout
17.8 km
Experience authentic English countryside charm with hearty meals and fine ales at The Lazy Trout in Meerbrook.
Wheatsheaf Pub and Pantry
17.9 km
Cozy Bakewell pub blending traditional charm with modern pantry dining, serving generous portions in a warm, dog- and child-friendly setting.
Castle
18.0 km
A classic Greene King pub in Bakewell serving hearty British fare in a warm, historic setting near the Peak District.
The Jug And Glass
18.8 km
Historic 18th-century pub and inn in Lea, Matlock offering traditional British fare, real ales, cozy rooms, and a gateway to the Peak District.
Cliff Inn
19.9 km
Cozy traditional pub in Crich serving hearty Derbyshire classics with stunning countryside views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Packhorse Inn
20.0 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
The Old Black Swan Public House
20.5 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Crich serving hearty British fare and well-kept ales in a cozy, community-focused setting.
Anglers Rest
21.2 km
A cozy riverside pub in Millers Dale offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a tranquil garden in the heart of the Peak District.
The Joiners Arms
22.0 km
A cozy gastropub in Quarndon blending rustic charm with creative pizzas and classic British fare, perfect for casual dining and social gatherings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
3D Leek - Bar & Nightclub Experiences
16.7 km
Experience Leek’s vibrant nightlife at 3D Leek, where lively music, great drinks, and dynamic events create unforgettable evenings.
Base 95
16.8 km
Leek’s vibrant nightclub and bar at Market Place, Base 95 offers lively late-night entertainment for a diverse crowd every weekend.
The Loft
17.2 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Matlock offering lively music, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the town center.
Level 2
22.8 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
Great Rocks Social Club
25.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
The Association Nightclub
25.3 km
Ripley's vibrant weekend nightclub offering late-night music, dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Regal Nightclub
25.5 km
Experience Ripley’s vibrant nightlife at The Regal Nightclub, where lively music and a welcoming atmosphere keep the party going late into the weekend.
Mosh
25.7 km
Three floors of diverse music and affordable drinks make Mosh a lively, student-friendly nightclub in Derby’s city center.
Together
25.9 km
Vibrant Afrobeat nightclub and cocktail bar in Derby’s city centre with affordable drinks and lively events.
Bar Fever Derby
25.9 km
Experience Derby’s vibrant nightlife at Fever Derby, a dynamic three-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and exclusive VIP areas.
MooMoo Nightclub Derby
26.0 km
Experience Derby’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, premium booths, and affordable drinks at MooMoo Nightclub on St James's Street.
Pink Nightclub - Stoke on Trent
26.7 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Pink Nightclub, Hanley’s lively late-night venue with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Reflex - Hanley
26.7 km
Energetic and inclusive nightclub in Hanley, offering classic 80s/90s tunes, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Gossip!
26.7 km
Stoke-on-Trent’s premier gay nightclub with vibrant bars, dance floor, and beer garden offering lively, inclusive nightlife in Hanley.
TTL Nightclub
26.8 km
Experience Stoke-on-Trent’s vibrant nightlife at TTL Nightclub, Hanley’s energetic hub for dance, music, and social nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Romantic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- National Park
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
