Dovedale National Nature Reserve

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Overview

Dovedale, created an NNR in 2006, had long been appreciated for its stunning scenery and wildlife, and the names of the crags, such as Lion Head Rock, Ilam Rock and Tissington Spires, originated with Victorian tourists, as did the famous Stepping Stones. It’s one of the best examples of an active ravine in the country, carved out of the limestone by the River Dove after the last Ice Age. Large areas of flower-rich grassland including the rare Jacob’s ladder are among its floral highlights. The steep woodlands are dominated by ash, with less common species such as field maple, yew and rock whitebeam. Dovedale is of special ecological interest for its plant life, particularly those calcareous ash woods, which are considered among the best in England. Other unusual plants include Solomon’s seal, lily of the valley, herb Paris and small and large-leaved limes. Birds found here include kingfisher, grey heron and dipper. You can spot 350-million-year-old fossils at places like Lover’s Leap and explore the caves at Reynard’s Cave and Dole Holes.

Location

Ilam

About the area

Staffordshire features lofty moors, deep dales and tremendous views of both. Further south are the six sprawling towns that make up Stoke-on-Trent, which historically have had such an impact on Staffordshire’s fortunes, not to mention its culture and countryside.

Area image

Ilam Staffordshire Things To Do in Staffordshire

Dovedale National Nature Reserve

Ilam

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Dovedale National Nature Reserve

Recommended by

Overview

Dovedale, created an NNR in 2006, had long been appreciated for its stunning scenery and wildlife, and the names of the crags, such as Lion Head Rock, Ilam Rock and Tissington Spires, originated with Victorian tourists, as did the famous Stepping Stones. It’s one of the best examples of an active ravine in the country, carved out of the limestone by the River Dove after the last Ice Age. Large areas of flower-rich grassland including the rare Jacob’s ladder are among its floral highlights. The steep woodlands are dominated by ash, with less common species such as field maple, yew and rock whitebeam. Dovedale is of special ecological interest for its plant life, particularly those calcareous ash woods, which are considered among the best in England. Other unusual plants include Solomon’s seal, lily of the valley, herb Paris and small and large-leaved limes. Birds found here include kingfisher, grey heron and dipper. You can spot 350-million-year-old fossils at places like Lover’s Leap and explore the caves at Reynard’s Cave and Dole Holes.

Location

Ilam

About the area

Area image

Staffordshire features lofty moors, deep dales and tremendous views of both. Further south are the six sprawling towns that make up Stoke-on-Trent, which historically have had such an impact on Staffordshire’s fortunes, not to mention its culture and countryside.

Explore Staffordshire

Ilam Staffordshire Things To Do in Staffordshire