There are countless areas to explore through the Peak District, from beautiful waterfalls to mysterious ruins hidden in the landscape. Yet one area in particular is a popular destination with walkers - and it’s easy to see why.
With intriguing limestone formations, a winding river and several caves, Dovedale valley is a breathtakingly beautiful spot in the southern end of the national park. The River Dove cuts through the landscape and flows between steep, green slopes creating a landscape which feels like you've stepped into a different world.
The area is famous for its charming stepping stones which cross the river and have attracted visitors for decades. But they're not the only thing that makes this area so special.
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Formed during the Ice Age when glacial meltwater carved up the limestone, the valley contains several stunning features. It’s overlooked by Thorpe Cloud, an isolated limestone hill which stands at nearly 300 metres and offers incredible views of the area from the summit.
There’s several caves you can explore in the area which are easy to reach from the path. The Dove Holes are two perfectly-formed limestone caves which were reportedly used as shelter by hunters during the Ice Age.
Then there's Reynard’s Cave, which boasts a spectacular archway and is a favourite spot with climbers. In 2014 a hoard of coins dating back to the Late Iron Age and the Romans were found within the cave - so who knows what you could discover there.
Other formations to look out for are Ilam Rock, an impressive limestone column standing at 25 metres tall and Lover’s Leap, a rocky headland. The latter earned its name based on the story that a woman jumped from the rock believing her lover was killed in the Napoleonic Wars, but was saved when her skirt caught on a tree. She later returned home to discover he had been alive all along.
Thanks to the flat path which follows the river, Dovedale is the perfect place to go for a walk with the whole family, and there are lots of spots to enjoy a picnic too. It can become busy at weekends and during school holidays, if that's the case there are walks you can follow in nearby Hall Dale and Milldale.
Dovedale is just under two hours’ drive from Manchester and there are car parks operated by the National Trust at Dovedale and in the nearby village of Ilam. It costs £4.50 for up to four hours or £6 all day - only cash is accepted - and National Trust members can park for free.
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