Popular Peak District attraction reopened to the public after lengthy closure

By Tom Hardwick

Trainee reporter

Published 5th Sep 2024, 15:29 BST
Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com 
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Visit Shots! now
A Peak District attraction is now open to visitors once again – following a lengthy period of closure.

The stepping stones at Dovedale, near Ashbourne, have now reopened - after being closed following damage caused by Storm Babet in October 2023.

The lengthy period of closure was extended further by the need to delay any assessment of the damage caused until the summer, when water levels in the River Dove had dropped.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The plans for the repair work also required approval from Natural England, as the area is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Dovedale is a valley in the southern part of the Peak District - known for its picturesque stepping stones over the River Dove.Dovedale is a valley in the southern part of the Peak District - known for its picturesque stepping stones over the River Dove.
Dovedale is a valley in the southern part of the Peak District - known for its picturesque stepping stones over the River Dove.

A National Trust spokesperson told the BBC: “Dovedale is a national nature reserve where the local community and visitors alike can enjoy the beautiful scenery and the great outdoors.

"The stepping stones at Dovedale have been successfully repaired by Derbyshire County Council, who are responsible for this public right of way.

READ THIS: Green light to fell two ‘healthy’ Derbyshire trees due to ‘trip hazard’

"It's great to see that the stones have been reinstated and that they are now open again so that walkers can again explore the incredible surrounding landscape."

Related topics:DovedalePeak DistrictNatural EnglandNational TrustDerbyshire

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.