Bakewell & Dovedale

Set in the beautiful countryside of the White Peak,the ten delightful routes in this guide are all located in the south-eastcorner of the Peak District, clustered within easy reach of Bakewell, Matlockand Ashbourne. All but three of them are well served by local buses, so you canleave the car behind in this popular area of the national park. Thewalks offer something for everyone, from the superb dale views at Monsal Headand a gentle exploration of idyllic Dovedale, to the glorious parkland at England’sgrandest stately home, Chatsworth, and discovering much humbler quarrying andlime-making heritage on the accessible High Peak Trail. Easy-going, accessiblepaths are also followed on sections of the Monsal Trail, along the colourfultowpath of the Cromford Canal, and on theTissington Trail. The most energetic walk climbs Sugarloaf and runs on throughWetton Hill Dale, with the promise of delicious refreshment at the Mill TeaRooms. The more daring might tackle the challenge of the stepping stones inDovedale, while the fascinating history of the plague and the custom of welldressing are revealed on the outing from Eyam. Speaking of traditions, do enjoya slice of Bakewell Pudding at the end of Walk 4, relaxing near the ancientbridge over the River Wye.