Stepping Stones, River Dove

Dovedale Stepping Stones is one of the classic dog-friendly days out near Ashbourne, and for good reason. This famous Peak District walk follows the River Dove through one of the area’s best-known valleys, with the stepping stones sitting at the foot of Thorpe Cloud and an easy riverside route leading out from the main car park. It is the sort of place that makes a dog immediately think the holiday has become very serious indeed: water, woodland, limestone scenery and endless new smells in every direction.

You can keep it short with a simple wander to the stones, or stretch the day out with a longer walk towards Milldale, Lover’s Leap or Reynard’s Cave. Expect big scenery, lots of sniff stops and a dog who would quite happily keep going long after the humans start discussing snacks.