A Peak District Summer Classic - Ilam and Dovedale
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A walk though Dove Dale is worth doing at any time of year - but especially on a summer's day. We'll start at the picture postcard village of Ilam and head upstream along the wooded valley of the River Manifold before climbing out past Casterne Hall. We will cross a typical White Peak landscape of grass fields and dry limestone walls to the small hamlet of Stanshope.
From here the walk descends down the beautiful dry valley of Hall Dale to meet the River Dove at the north end of Dove Dale. We then follow the Dove downstream past the spectacular pinnacles of Ilam Rock, Pickering Tor and Tissington Spires. We'll then climb to the popular resting place at Lover’s Leap high above the river, to see if we can count 12 apostles on the valley-side opposite. Descending again we come to the famous (but busy!) stepping-stones and to the mouth of the dale. We will then leave the crowds behind as we cross the fields back to Ilam.
If you're not too tired why not join us at the summer social in Nottingham afterwards.
What to bring
Walking shoes are ideal, but sturdy trainers are also fine in good weather. Depending on the forecast, either suncream or a raincoat are advised.
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch for the walk, together with at least a litre of water and/or a flask of tea/coffee. There is a tea room at Ilam Hall, where we will end the walk with a cream tea perhaps.