Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Derbyshire
Derbyshire Dales

Kniveton

Attractions and Places To See around Kniveton - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Kniveton offer a blend of historical richness and natural beauty within Derbyshire. This village serves as a gateway to the Peak District, featuring diverse landscapes from rolling hills to gritstone outcrops. The area is characterized by its significant natural features, historical landmarks, and numerous trails for outdoor exploration. Visitors can discover a variety of sites, from ancient churches to expansive reservoirs and dramatic valleys.

Best attractions and places to see around Kniveton

  • The most popular attractions is Black Rocks, a forest that features an impressive gritstone outcrop and superb hiking territory. A steep ascent leads to the top, offering views towards Matlock Gorge and the Derwent Valley.
  • Another must-see spot is Thorpe Cloud, a climb and natural monument. This distinctive conical hill rises from Dovedale and provides 360-degree views of the surrounding areas.
  • Visitors also love Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove, a river feature and natural monument. This site offers a unique crossing of the River Dove amidst stunning scenery, including ancient ash woodland and wildflower-rich grasslands.
  • Kniveton is known for its natural features, historical sites, and walking routes. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from impressive caves to picturesque villages and scenic trails.
  • The attractions around Kniveton are appreciated by the komoot community, with nearly 200 upvotes and over 120 photos shared across the highlights.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Thorpe Cloud

Highlight • Climb

Thorpe Cloud rises proudly from Dovedale and affords breathtaking views over the River Dove, Bunster Hill, Ilam and beyond. It has a distinctive conical shape and is a popular summit for hikers in the area. That said, it can get extremely busy up here so choose your moment to climb it.

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Dovedale's stepping stones

Highlight • River

The Stepping Stones make for a quirky crossing of the River Dove. In the middle of the stones, be sure to look around and admire the stunning scenery. The stones were placed in the middle of the 19th century and were an instant hit with visitors. There are lots of fossils in the stones, too.

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Black Rocks

Highlight • Forest

An impressive gritstone outcrop, Black Rocks and its surroundings are superb hiking territory. A steep ascent from the car park and the trails below bring you to the top. From there you can explore the Forestry Commission woodlands of Cromford Moor or stride out along the High Peak Trail for glorious views towards Matlock Gorge and the Derwent Valley.

Tip by

Save

Dove Holes Caves

Highlight • Historical Site

Dove Holes are a series of three impressive caves beside the River Dove. They were formed around 350 million years ago by glacial meltwater. It’s great fun climbing up into the caves but take care as the rocks are slippery.

Tip by

Save

Milldale

Highlight • Settlement

Milldale is a secluded village in an attractive location. Lots of visitors come up from Dovedale though. There's a small local shop that sells sandwiches, ice creams and hot drinks. It's great for a relax after a days hike and a good starting point for exploring Dovedale, Biggin Dale and Wolfcote Dale. There's a free car park not far from the village centre.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Kniveton.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Kniveton

Hiking around Kniveton

Cycling around Kniveton

MTB Trails around Kniveton

Running Trails around Kniveton

Gravel biking around Kniveton

Road Cycling Routes around Kniveton

Tips from the Community

Ian
December 14, 2025, Thorpe Cloud

The car park is free for National Trust members. I love climbing but I don't like heights....confusing I know! I really enjoyed this short climb but I found myself on a small scramble which got my blood pumping a little!

0

0

Ben
October 12, 2025, Thorpe Cloud

Car park isn’t free but costs £6.60 for the day or £4 for 4 hours

0

0

Beth
July 13, 2025, Black Rocks

Can be quite exposed and windy on top

1

0

Beth
July 13, 2025, Black Rocks

Gorgeous view :)

1

0

Grace Mulligan
November 21, 2024, Black Rocks

This prominent rocky outcrop is an important crag in the world of climbing, and attracts rock climbers who appreciate a challenging route. It juts out from the hillside and forms a beautiful view of the valley below.

1

0

Excellent views from atop. A worthy waypoint when hiking past.

0

0

Black Rocks is a weathered outcrop of Ashover grit which can be reached by a short, but steep climb, from the car park. The climb up onto the gritstone outcrop of Black Rocks is rewarded with superb views. Waymarked walks guide you through the Forestry Commission woodlands of Cromford Moor. You can access beautiful and varied countryside, including the High Peak Trail. The Black Rocks site was mined for lead, the spoil on the scree slope leading up to Black Rocks supports many interesting lead tolerant plants (leadworts). The scree slope is an ideal place to search for a variety of rocks and minerals. Other interesting habitats can be explored from Black Rocks, since it is near the boundary between limestone and gritstone. Cromford Moor has heather moorland and various types of woodland.

1

0

kris
October 19, 2023, Milldale

Lovely place for a hike with a family and a dog. I did it on a gravel bike recently but there are some serious hike a bike sections where you’re required to dismount of your bike

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore around Kniveton?

The area around Kniveton is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Black Rocks, an impressive gritstone outcrop offering superb hiking and views. Another distinctive natural monument is Thorpe Cloud, a conical hill providing 360-degree views. Don't miss the iconic Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove, set amidst stunning scenery. Further afield, you can find Carsington Water for leisurely strolls, and the adventurous Dove Holes Caves.

Are there any historical or cultural sites near Kniveton?

Kniveton and its surroundings offer several historical sites. The village itself is home to the Grade I listed St Michael and All Angels' Church, with Norman origins and 13th-century architecture. The Former Kniveton Methodist Church, dating from 1832, is also a Grade II listed building. Nearby, you can explore Tissington Hall, a splendid 17th-century Jacobean mansion.

What kind of walking and cycling trails are available near Kniveton?

The region boasts excellent trails for walking and cycling. The Tissington Trail, a picturesque path converted from an old railway line, offers stunning countryside views. For more challenging hikes, the High Peak Trail provides views towards Matlock Gorge and the Derwent Valley. You can find various routes for different sports, including easy hikes and gravel biking. For detailed routes, explore the easy hikes around Kniveton, general hiking routes, and gravel biking tours.

Are there family-friendly attractions around Kniveton?

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove are a popular spot for all ages, offering a unique crossing and beautiful scenery. The village of Milldale is also family-friendly, with facilities and a pleasant setting for a rest after a walk. Carsington Water provides a peaceful setting for leisurely strolls and water-based activities.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Kniveton?

Visitors particularly enjoy the breathtaking views from summits like Thorpe Cloud and Black Rocks. The unique experience of crossing the Dovedale Stepping Stones is also a highlight, often described as a fun, nostalgic activity. The overall blend of stunning natural landscapes, opportunities for outdoor adventure, and the charm of picturesque villages like Milldale are highly appreciated.

Where can I find food and drink in Kniveton?

In Kniveton, The Red Lion is an 18th-century village free-house offering traditional food and local ales, serving as a social landmark. For those exploring further, the village of Milldale has a small local shop that sells sandwiches, ice creams, and hot drinks, perfect for a quick refreshment.

Are there any caves to explore in the area?

Yes, the Dove Holes Caves are a series of three impressive caves located beside the River Dove. Formed by glacial meltwater, they offer an adventurous climbing experience, though care should be taken as rocks can be slippery. These caves have a rich history, with evidence of human inhabitation dating back to 13,000 BC.

What are some good viewpoints around Kniveton?

For impressive views, consider climbing Thorpe Cloud, which offers 360-degree panoramas of Dovedale, Bunster Hill, and Ilam. The summit of Black Rocks also provides glorious views towards Matlock Gorge and the Derwent Valley. Additionally, Haven Hill, an 800ft eminence, offers rewarding views, especially towards Carsington turbines with Harboro Rocks.

Can I find easy walking routes near Kniveton?

Yes, there are several easy walking routes available. For example, you can find routes around Carsington Water, such as the 'Roadford Lake Dam – Carsington Water loop from Hognaston CP' which is approximately 5.5 km. The Tissington Trail also offers relatively flat sections suitable for easy strolls. You can find more options in the easy hikes around Kniveton guide.

What is Carsington Water like?

Carsington Water, close to Kniveton, is a large reservoir surrounded by rolling hills. It provides a peaceful setting for leisurely strolls and offers various water-based activities like sailing and fishing. The Carsington Water Visitor Centre is also a nearby attraction, making it a great spot for a relaxed day out.

Are there any specific tips for visiting Dovedale?

Dovedale, home to the Stepping Stones, is incredibly popular. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit early on a midweek morning, especially outside of school holidays. The further you venture from the car park and Stepping Stones, the quieter it tends to be. The area features an internationally important ancient ash woodland, wildflower-rich grasslands, and abundant wildlife.

What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Kniveton?

The terrain around Kniveton is varied, ranging from rolling hills and picturesque valleys to gritstone outcrops. Trails like those leading to Black Rocks can involve steep ascents, while paths like the Tissington Trail are generally flatter. Good footwear is recommended for most hiking routes, especially on uneven or rocky paths.

Most popular routes around Kniveton

Hiking around Kniveton

Most popular attractions around Kniveton

Natural Monuments

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

HathersageOffertonAbney and Abney Grange CPHathersageHazlebadgeFoolowGrindlow CP CPBradwellGrindlefordEyamStoney MiddletonGreat HucklowHighlowWardlowWhestonLittle Hucklow CP CPTideswellLittonFroggattCalverBaslow and Bubnell CPCurbarGreat LongstoneGrattonRowsleyNether HaddonEdensorBeeleyBakewellStanton CPHartington Middle QuarterChelmortonChatsworth CPTaddingtonMiddleton And SmerrillAshford In The WaterHartington Nether Quarter CPBrushfieldHartington Town Quarter CPHassopSheldonOver HaddonLittle LongstoneHarthillPilsleyYoulgreaveNorthwood and Tinkersley CPFlaggMonyashWinsterRowlandBallidonAldwarkBirchoverSouth DarleyBlackwell in the Peak CPParwichDarley DaleBrassingtonEltonMatlock TownBonsallIvonbrook Grange CP CPBradbourneIbleCarsingtonHoptonEaton and Alsop CPMiddletonMatlock Bath CP CPTansleyWirksworthCromfordCallowHognastonNewton Grange CPTissington and Lea Hall CPAtlowKirk IretonHulland CPBradley CPFenny BentleyHulland WardBigginThorpeMapletonOffcote and Underwood CPClifton And ComptonAshbourneEdlaston and Wyaston CPSnelstonYeldersleyOsmastonBrailsfordShirleyNorbury and Roston CPMercastonYeaveleyCubleySomersal HerbertDoveridgeMarston MontgomeryFroggatt WoodRodsleyLongford CPHollingtonAlkmontonBoylestoneSudburyHungry Bentley CPCarsington Water

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Bradbourne

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy