Highlight • Historical Site
Dove Holes Caves
Hiking
5.0
(327)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
October 12, 2018
Hiking
June 4, 2022
Hiking
According to 'Lets Go PeakDistrict' These caves have seen human inhabitation since 13,000BC, when the first Upper Paleolithic hunters used them for shelter. In more recent history, there is evidence that Neolithic farmers used the caves as tombs about 4,500 years ago. Some of the items found from within the caves are displayed in Buxton Museum.
May 8, 2021
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Dove Holes Caves
4.6
(295)
1,163
hikers
12.9km
03:41
280m
280m
Embark on a moderate 8.0-mile (12.9 km) hike through the famously pretty Dovedale valley, a journey that typically takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes to complete. You will gain about 929 feet (283 metres) in elevation as you follow the River Dove, encountering dramatic limestone cliffs and unique rock formations like the iconic Dovedale Stepping Stones and the imposing Ilam Rock. The trail offers a tranquil experience, winding through one of England's most beautiful valleys with varied terrain.
When planning your visit, be aware that while some paths are well-maintained, other sections can be uneven, rocky, and potentially muddy or slippery after rain. The route includes fields and slopes, with some parts, like the path through Hall Dale, having rocky sections. Proper footwear is highly recommended due to these conditions, and certain areas are not suitable for pushchairs or prams.
Dovedale is one of the Peak District's most beloved natural sites, renowned for its unique geology and rich history. The valley's dramatic limestone formations, including Lover's Leap and Reynard's Cave, are fossilised remains of ancient sea creatures. Owned by the National Trust since 1934 and designated a National Nature Reserve, the area has inspired artists and writers for centuries, adding a layer of cultural significance to its natural beauty.
4.6
(240)
998
hikers
11.5km
03:26
330m
330m
Embark on the Dove Dale, Mill Dale & Hall Dale loop, a moderate hike that guides you through the heart of the Peak District's White Peak. This 7.2-mile (11.5 km) route features dramatic limestone cliffs, serene wooded sections, and the gentle flow of the River Dove. You will navigate the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones and explore the charming hamlet of Milldale, experiencing a diverse landscape with 1077 feet (328 metres) of elevation gain over approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes.
To make the most of your visit, consider starting your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially on sunny weekends or during school holidays, as the Dovedale area can become quite busy. Parking is available at the Dovedale car park and within Milldale, offering convenient access to the trailhead. Planning your timing can help ensure a more peaceful and enjoyable experience on the trail.
This loop offers a quintessential experience of the Peak District National Park, showcasing its unique limestone geology and varied terrain. The route thoughtfully combines well-known riverside paths with more secluded valley sections, providing a balanced perspective of the region's natural beauty. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the distinctive character of the White Peak landscape.
4.4
(34)
114
hikers
15.5km
04:27
370m
370m
Hike the 9.6-mile Dovedale and Tissington Trail Loop, a moderate route through the Peak District's dramatic gorges and charming villages.
Details
Informations
Elevation 210 m
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Wednesday 12 August
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Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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