The Dovedale stepping stones are a series of natural river crossings on the River Dove in Dovedale Valley, a popular Peak District walking destination in Derbyshire, England. This guide covers opening hours, access, transport or parking, accessibility, and practical visitor tips to plan your visit.
This guide was updated in February 2026 to confirm car park charges.
Quick facts
| Opening hours | Stepping stones and valley open 24 hours; nearby car parks typically 9am–7.30pm |
|---|---|
| Ticket prices | Free to visit; parking charges apply (from £6; see section) |
| Address | Dovedale Valley, Ashbourne, Derbyshire DE6 area |
| Nearest transport or parking | Dovedale National Trust car park (DE6 2AY), Ilam Park car park |
| Typical time needed | 1–3 hours (short stop or extended walk) |
The Dovedale stepping stones opening hours
The Dovedale stepping stones and valley paths are open to visitors 24 hours a day. There is no admission charge to walk to the stones on foot.
Nearby car parks, including the main National Trust Dovedale car park, generally operate from about 9am to dusk. If arriving earlier or later, plan to walk, cycle or park at alternative designated areas.
The Dovedale stepping stones ticket prices
Visiting the stepping stones themselves is free of charge. There is no admission fee to enter Dovedale Valley or to walk along the riverside paths.
Parking at the National Trust Dovedale car park is free for National Trust members. Everyone else pays £6 for up to four hours, £8 for over four hours.
How to get to the Dovedale stepping stones
The Dovedale stepping stones are in the Dovedale Valley in the Peak District, reachable by car and foot.
By car:
- The main access is via the National Trust Dovedale car park, postcode DE6 2AY. Follow brown tourist signs for Dovedale.
- Alternative parking options include Thorpe village car parks and Ilam Park car park, which involve longer walks into the valley.
By public transport:
- There is no direct public transport service to the stepping stones.
- Buses run to nearby towns such as Ashbourne, with onward walking required from there.
Parking at the Dovedale stepping stones
Parking to access the stepping stones is available at several locations near the Dovedale Valley.
- National Trust Dovedale car park: Closest access for the stepping stones; charges apply for non-members. This site can fill early on busy days.
- Ilam Park car park: Further away and often quieter; involves a longer scenic walk (about 1.5 miles one way) to reach the stones.
Parking spaces are limited, especially on weekends, bank holidays and during school holidays. Arrive early or later in the day to secure spaces.
How long to spend at the Dovedale stepping stones
Visits to the stepping stones and immediate riverside area generally take between one and three hours. A short walk from the main car park to the stones and back can be under an hour.
If you plan to explore further along Dovedale Valley or include nearby trails (such as routes up Thorpe Cloud or towards Milldale), allow additional time.
Accessibility at the Dovedale stepping stones
Access to the stepping stones area and valley paths varies with surface and weather conditions.
- The initial path from the main car park to the stepping stones is relatively flat and suitable for a range of walkers, but surfaces may be uneven and can flood or become muddy after rain.
- Some gates or stiles may be present on alternate routes.
- Wheelchair and pushchair access to the stones themselves is limited due to natural footing, but nearby paved or firm paths offer alternatives close to the river.
- Obviously, the stones themselves are not wheelchair accessible.
- Mobile phone reception is limited in the valley. Prepare accordingly.
Paths beyond the immediate access route may require good footwear and be unsuitable for wheeled equipment.
Inside / what to see at the Dovedale stepping stones
The Dovedale stepping stones provide a simple scenic stopping point within the natural landscape of Dovedale Valley.
- A short walk along the River Dove from the main access points leads to the stepping stones crossing, used by walkers to cross the river at low water levels.
- River levels vary with weather and can cover the stones after rain, in which case alternate crossing paths or routes are used.
- The surrounding valley features limestone ravines, riverside paths, and views of Thorpe Cloud and surrounding countryside.
- You can continue beyond the stepping stones on longer valley walks towards Milldale or undertake circular routes via higher ground.
Practical visitor tips
| Topic | Practical information |
|---|---|
| Timing | Arrive early or later in day to avoid peak parking demand. |
| Crowds | Weekends, bank holidays and school holidays attract more visitors. |
| Walking surfaces | Paths can be uneven and muddy after rain; wear suitable footwear. |
| River levels | The stepping stones can be submerged after heavy rainfall; plan alternative crossings. |
| Facilities | Public toilets and refreshment options are available near the main car park (charges may apply). |
Frequently asked questions about the Dovedale stepping stones
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are the Dovedale stepping stones suitable for children? | Yes; the short walk from the main car park is generally manageable, but supervision near water is recommended. |
| Do you need to book to visit the Dovedale stepping stones? | No booking is required; access and parking are first-come, first-served. |
| Are the Dovedale stepping stones open at night? | The valley and stepping stones are technically open 24 hours, but car park hours restrict vehicle access. |
| Is there a charge to cross the Dovedale stepping stones? | No charge to walk to or across the stones; charges apply only for parking vehicles. |
Things to do near the Dovedale stepping stones
Nearby attractions and activities that can be combined with your visit:
- Thorpe Cloud: A hill walk offering wider views of Dovedale Valley.
- Milldale and Milldale car park: Further valley walks and routes.
- Ilam Park: Scenic National Trust estate with trails and picnic areas.
- Tissington Trail: Converted railway path for walking and cycling.
- Ashbourne town centre: Local shops, cafés and services near Dovedale access.
Attractions further north in the Peak District include the Eyam Plague Village, Peveril Castle in Castleton and Mam Tor.
More East Midlands travel
Other East Midlands travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- 9 reasons to visit Nottingham.
- First time visitor’s guide to the City of Caves in Nottingham.
- Planning a visit to the Cromford Mills in Derbyshire.
- Lincoln Cathedral ticket price guide.
- Visit Sir Isaac Newton’s family home – Woolsthorpe Manor in Lincolnshire.
