The best walks and hikes around Ilam

Most hikes start from the National Trust - Ilam Park, which has a large visitor car park, a tea-room, and toilet facilities. It's the most convenient starting point for many trails into Dovedale and the surrounding area. For some routes, Blore Pastures Car Park is another option, though it has fewer facilities.

Yes, the area is well-suited for families. Many trails follow relatively flat riverside paths, particularly along the River Dove. You can find over 25 easy-rated walks around Ilam. A good option is the Carlton & Musden Low loop from Ilam Park, which offers a shorter walk through fields and gentle hills away from the busiest paths.

The hiking around Ilam is characterized by its limestone dales, woodlands, and scenic riverside paths along the rivers Manifold and Dove. You'll find a mix of gentle, flat sections and some moderate climbs up the dale sides for rewarding views of the Peak District landscape.

The trails are very highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning scenery of the limestone valleys, the well-maintained paths through Dovedale, and the variety of routes available directly from Ilam Park.

While Thor's Cave is a prominent feature in the nearby Manifold Valley, it is not directly on the main circular routes starting from Ilam Park. Reaching it typically requires a separate, dedicated walk starting closer to the village of Wetton. However, longer hikes like the Throwley Old Hall & Wetton loop pass through the same valley system.

Yes, dogs are welcome on most trails, especially in open areas like Ilam Park and along the river paths. However, you will likely encounter stiles and fields with grazing livestock (sheep and cattle), so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas.

The walk through Dovedale is famous for its scenery. Key features include the iconic Dovedale Stepping Stones across the River Dove, the impressive limestone pinnacle of Ilam Rock, and the beautiful woodlands of the Dovedale National Nature Reserve.

There are over 70 curated hiking routes to explore around Ilam. They range from short, easy circuits suitable for an afternoon stroll to more challenging full-day hikes that explore multiple dales.

You can hike in Ilam year-round. Spring and summer offer lush green landscapes and pleasant weather. Autumn provides beautiful colours in the woodlands. Winter can be very picturesque, but be prepared for muddy paths and potentially flooded sections near the river after heavy rain.

The main hub for refreshments is the Manifold tea-room located at Ilam Park, which is a perfect start or end point for a walk. For pubs, you will generally need to venture into nearby villages like Thorpe or Fenny Bentley, which are a short drive from the main trailheads.

Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential as paths can be rocky, uneven, and muddy, especially by the river. It's also wise to bring waterproof clothing, as the weather in the Peak District can change quickly. Pack water and snacks, as there are few facilities once you are deep into the dales.