What to expect

The stepping stones cross the River Dove at the southern entrance to Dovedale, providing a series of large limestone blocks that visitors can use to cross the river. The stones were first laid in around 1890 as Victorian tourism brought increasing numbers of visitors to the valley.

Dovedale is a National Nature Reserve, with the River Dove running between dramatic limestone formations, wooded slopes and open meadows. From the stepping stones, a popular riverside route continues into the valley, passing some of the area’s most recognisable scenery and wildlife habitats.

The stones themselves can be slippery, particularly when wet, and the river level can rise significantly following heavy rainfall. When water levels are high, the crossing may become completely impassable, so visitors should never attempt to cross when conditions are unsafe. The surrounding paths also include uneven ground, slopes and areas of loose rock, making suitable footwear advisable.