Lover’s Leap and Dove Hole Walk

The Lover’s Leap and Dove Hole Walk is a fantastic trek through Dovedale National Nature Reserve that will take you from the foot of Thorpe Cloud to the village of Milldale and back. While out on the trail, you will pass several highlights in the area, including the Stepping Stones across the River Dove, Lover’s Leap, the massive Ilam Rock, and of course the Dove Holes. If you find yourself exploring the Derbyshire/Staffordshire border, this walk should definitely be on your list.
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Route Description for Lover’s Leap and Dove Hole Walk
If you are looking for an ultra-scenic walking route that is packed with enough highlights to keep you busy for the day, then the Lover’s Leap and Dove Hole Walk is the perfect adventure to end your searching. The trail follows closely along the winding River Dove and crosses over the Stepping Stones under the shadow of Thorpe Cloud. From here, you will continue north along the banks of the river and visit the lookout known as Lover’s Leap. Further north, you will pass by a series of caves and the giant rock formation known as Ilam Rock before visiting the twin caves of the Dove Holes and arriving in the village of Milldale. After stopping for a quick rest, retrace your footsteps back through the Dovedale National Nature Reserve to experience the sights all over again on the return journey to the car park.
Getting to the Lover’s Leap and Dove Hole Walk Trailhead
To get to the car park for the Lover’s Leap and Dove Hole Walk from Thorpe, make your way north for 1.3 km along Thorpe Road and turn right to continue towards Dovedale for 0.5 km. After making a right turn you will arrive at the car park.
Route Information
Lover’s Leap and Dove Hole Walk Elevation Graph
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Nearby Trails
- Wolfscote and Biggin Dale Circular Walk
- Hartington Short Circular
- Hartington to Wolfscote Dale
- Lover’s Leap Circular Walk
- Pilsbury Castle and Tissington Trail
- Pilsbury Castle via Upper Dove Valley Circular Walk
- River Dove Circular Walk
- Birchover and Stanton Moor Walk
- Manifold Track Circular Walk
- Thorpe Cloud Walk
- Dovedale Walk
- Thor’s Cave and The Manifold Valley