The River Dove rises on high ground at Axe Edge, near to Buxton. Its clear waters meander southwards for 45 miles to eventually join the River Trent. For much of its course, the river runs through stunningly attractive countryside.

Dovedale, with its steep-sided limestone sides and tree-covered slopes is the stretch of the valley that runs from the tiny hamlet of Milldale, down to the large car park close to the road linking Ilam and Thorpe. In some places the water has eroded the limestone into spectacular rock formations, like the Lion's Head and the natural archway in front of Reynard's Cave.

A high proportion of the 22 million people who annually visit the Peak District National Park, include the Dove Valley in their itineraries.  

ASHBOURNE

The historic market town of Ashbourne, lies in an attractive valley divided by the Henmore Brook and is frequently referred to as the ‘Gateway to Dovedale’.

The town has managed over the centuries to preserve much of its architectural character, most of which has been protected since 1968, by Conservation Area status.

It is a lively town with regular events and good shopping facilities. The cobbled  market place is particularly attractive, though, it has been encroached by buildings, and is now much smaller than the original design.

A great place just to relax by the water’s edge, but do leave time to look round the Visitor Centre with its shops and restored exhibition area. The more adventurous can hire a sailing dinghy, or a mountain bike. Alternatively, if you have plenty of energy left, why not walk the seven miles or so round the reservoir? Open daily all year.

The small town of Wirksworth does not perhaps make much impact on the busy traveller driving through. All those visitors, however, with time to explore the narrow streets and maze of interesting alleyways, to admire the old buildings and lovely views, to visit the ancient church and the cathedral–like close, will soon find themselves falling in love with this fascinating old town.

For those wanting to know more about Wirksworth a visit to the highly acclaimed Heritage Centre is essential. The Heritage Centre is housed in what once was a Silk and Velvet Mill where the ’Wirksworth Story’ is explained on three floors. This takes you on a fascinating journey through time from pre-historic days, when the bones of a Woolly Rhino were found, through the lead mining era to the present day. Excellent views over the town are obtained from the windows.

MANIFOLD

The Manifold Valley has some of the most spectacular scenery in the Peak District and is rich with wildflowers, butterflies and birds. Surprisingly, the river beds of the Manifold and Hamps that flow through the valley are frequently dry, as the waters soak away into the porous limestone rocks below and only reappear in wet weather. 

The Leek and Manifold Light Railway used to run through the valley. Swainsley Tunnel, which forms part of the route, was constructed for the railway to keep the noise and fumes away from Swainsley Hall. Lack of sufficient business forced the closure of the line and it has subsequently been turned into a trail for walkers and cyclists, only two miles of which is not car-free.