Lover’s Leap Circular Walk
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Route Description for Lover’s Leap Circular Walk
With the majority of the Lover’s Leap Circular passing through the ultra-scenic landscape of Dovedale National Nature Reserve, it is little wonder that it is such a popular walking destination for walkers of every skill level. Setting out from the car park, the trail follows alongside the flowing River Dove under the shadow of Thorpe Cloud and crosses over to the opposite bank via a series of stepping stones that were installed during the Victorian Era when travel here really began to boom. From there, continue along the edge of the water and take in the breathtaking views of the dale before you arrive at the steps leading up to the lookout called Lover’s Leap.
After taking in the views of lower Dovedale, continue north to pass by a series of limestone caves and the imposing Ilam Rock, before crossing over to the other side of the river. After climbing uphill, make your way south through the forest to skirt around the edge of Bunster Hill and eventually arrive back at the car park where you began.
Other amazing walks in Peak District National Park
Check out our guides to Kinder Scout, Mam Tor, Stanage Edge, Dovedale, and Padley Gorge. Or see all of our Peak District walks on 10Adventures.
Getting to the Lover’s Leap Circular Walk Trailhead
To reach the car park for the Lover’s Leap Circular from Thorpe, drive north on Thorpe Road for 0.8mi and turn right to continue towards Dovedale for 0.3mi. Make a right turn to arrive at the car park.Route Information
When to do:
March-November
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Older Children only
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Circuit
Lover’s Leap Circular Walk Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
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