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Trail Venturers
Trail Venturers - UK Hiking Blog
Dovedale and Lovers Leap Circular (Via Milldale)
Where To Park
Stanshope (Road Parking)
For this route, the recommended parking spot is the Dovedale Car Park. While there is a fee for non-National Trust members—£5 for up to 4 hours, £7 for over 4 hours—parking is free for members. This car park offers ample space, making it a convenient choice for many hikers.
Alternatively, we opted to park in Stanshope, a quaint village along the route. Parking outside Stanshope Hall worked well for us. We noticed that both Stanshope and a car park just outside Milldale were quieter options and, in our opinion, served as better starting points for the hike. These spots provide a more serene atmosphere, perfect for beginning your outdoor adventure.
Tips to note before starting this walk
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Be prepared for a challenging climb with a steep gradient along a small 3/4 mile section of the trail.
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Following rainfall, be cautious as the stepping stones may be submerged, potentially requiring an earlier river crossing.
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Expect muddy conditions on the trail after rainfall.
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Watch out for sections where the trail runs perpendicular to steep slopes, which can strain the ankles.
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Consider alternative parking options if the Dovedale Car Park is full, especially on weekends. Parking in Milldale or Stanshope could be a better choice.
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Don't forget to visit the charming café in Milldale for a delightful break during your hike.
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1/4 mile from the Tissington spires is a cave, definitely worth a exploration
The Route
This Hike take you through the picturesque Dovedale National Nature Reserve nestled within the Peak District National Park, and features stunning limestone dales
Depending on your start location traditionally it commences at the Dovedale car park, leading you alongside Thorpe Cloud, tracing the curves of the River Dove. You'll encounter a cave (Definitely worth an exploration) and cross the legendary stepping stones, an iconic gateway to the reserve crafted in the late 19th century.
Meandering through this captivating dale, there is impressive limestone formations. The route includes interesting stories including Dovedale Castle across the water, and hear tales of Lover's Leap, where a miraculous twist of fate unfolded during the Napoleonic Wars.
Across the river, is the Twelve Apostles, towering limestone sentinels, and catch sight of Tissington Spires, Jacob's Ladder, and Dovedale Church on the horizon. Explore Reynard's Cave, echoing with ancient whispers, and admire Ilam Rock, a monumental pillar beckoning climbers.
Venture beyond the valley, traversing tranquil country roads and verdant fields to Stanhope. You then Reenter Dovedale Nature Reserve, ascending along the valley's edge for panoramic vistas before winding through the slopes of Bunster Hill back to the car park.
The Gallery
