Ilam Park
A Victorian-style estate park on the River Manifold with views of the Dove Dale hills, linked to the Dovedale stepping stones by footpath.
Ilam Park is managed by the National Trust and lies just west of the entrance to Dovedale. Its main features are the Gothic Revival Ilam Hall (partly a youth hostel), an Italianate garden, and woodland paths along the River Manifold. From the grassy lawns you can see Thorpe Cloud and the Dovedale hills. The village of Ilam has Alpine-style cottages and a memorial cross. Entry to the park is free (parking is charged), and a tearoom and visitor centre are available for a rest. From here it is a 20-minute walk across fields to the Dovedale stepping stones, making an easy loop.
Opening hours
Park open all day; tea house approx. 10:00–16:00
Nearby sights
- Dovedale & Stepping Stones
- Thor's Cave
- Alton Towers
- Monsal Head & Monsal Trail
- Bakewell
- Haddon Hall
- The Roaches
- Poole's Cavern