Lover's Leap Circular
Lover's Leap Circular map

Lover's Leap Circular Walk

Peak District
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Lover's Leap Circular Walk

Distance: 4.6mi
Elevation: 945ft
Time: 2-3h

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The Lover’s Leap Circular is a great adventure along the Derbyshire/Staffordshire border that takes you through the Dovedale National Nature Reserve to experience some of the best highlights in the Peak District. While out on this trail, you will pass by the unique limestone hill known as Thorpe Cloud, cross a series of stepping stones that span the River Dove, and of course visit the lookout known as Lover’s Leap. There is a lot to unpack on this route, so what are you waiting for?

Please note this area is seeing a significant increase in litter, illegal fires, off-lead dogs, irresponsible parking, and overcrowding. Due to this, we encourage you to consider visiting another area in the Peak District at this time or ensure you are respecting the rules outlined by Peak District National Trust during your visit.

Lover's Leap Circular Walk hike Map

Getting there

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.

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About

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


Lover’s Leap Circular Trail Description

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.

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