'Its all Downhill from Here" in Dovedale

Service Description

This magnificent scenic tour starts at the source of the Manifold River close to Flash (1519 ft) the highest village in the UK. It closely follows the path of the meandering river down to Dove Dale. As you would imagine the route is predominantly downhill and easy on the battery! From Flash Bar Café minor roads take you steeply down into the remote village of Hollinsclough (secret views of dales that you won't find on any postcards) and then pass between the Manifold and Dove to reach the market town of Longnor. A tour of the village and the route then follows rarely used farm roads to a cafe and visitor centre at Hulme End or maybe take a slight detour to the Manifold Inn! Beyond the Manifold Trail which is mainly traffic free providing a flat trail previously used as a narrow-gauge "milk" railway line. The peaceful secluded route crosses both sides of the Manifold passing through a tunnel, bypassing old mines, happening upon Wetton Mill (now a lovely café) and Thor's Cave. Upon leaving the Manifold Track minor roads climb steeply for a mile or so to allow access to the adjacent valley of Hopedale and allow perhaps another detour to the Watts Russell seen temptingly below. Then back through the villages of Stanhope and Ilam before finishing at the Isaac Walton Hotel "the gateway to Dovedale". Amazing scenery that only Dovedale can offer. Difficulty - Easy Blue Tour Theme - Rivers & Reservoirs, Geology & Landscapes Surface - Minor roads and cycle trails Distance - 19 miles Time allocated - 6 hours Refreshment stops - Flash, Longnor, Hulme End, Hopedale & Dovedale Tour Ref - 13