Beresford Dale Peak District
A serene riverside walk through dramatic limestone dales, offering a peaceful escape in the Peak District.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Beresford Dale Peak District
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene riverside walk through dramatic limestone dales, offering a peaceful escape in the Peak District.
"It’s Heavenly. If you wanted God to paint a picture of a riverside walk in summer, this would be very close to it."
🚗 Parking in Hartington
Park in Hartington village or near the cafe/farm shop and enjoy a 30-min walk to the dale.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Paths can be rocky and muddy; wear good walking shoes. Not pram-friendly!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
River Dove Serenity
Along the River Dove
Experience heavenly riverside walks with gentle, flat trails and picturesque bridges. A true natural masterpiece.
Dramatic Limestone Scenery
Beresford Dale
Explore prehistoric-feeling landscapes with striking limestone cliffs and hidden medieval towers.
Peaceful Alternative to Dovedale
Beresford Dale
Enjoy a less crowded, tranquil dale that offers a beautiful walking experience, perfect for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Footwear and Navigation Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking in Hartington
Park in Hartington village or near the cafe/farm shop and enjoy a 30-min walk to the dale.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Paths can be rocky and muddy; wear good walking shoes. Not pram-friendly!
🗺️ Carry a Map
Essential for navigation, especially on higher sections or if exploring beyond the main dale path.
🏞️ Combine with Wolfscote Dale
Beresford Dale is a great starting point for longer walks into Wolfscote Dale and beyond.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking in Hartington
Park in Hartington village or near the cafe/farm shop and enjoy a 30-min walk to the dale.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Paths can be rocky and muddy; wear good walking shoes. Not pram-friendly!
🗺️ Carry a Map
Essential for navigation, especially on higher sections or if exploring beyond the main dale path.
🏞️ Combine with Wolfscote Dale
Beresford Dale is a great starting point for longer walks into Wolfscote Dale and beyond.
💧 Wild Swimming Spot
Pike Pool in Beresford Dale is a known spot for adventurous wild swimming.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Beresford Dale to be a heavenly riverside walk, offering a peaceful and beautiful experience, especially when compared to busier nearby locations like Dovedale. While not a full-day destination on its own, it's highly praised as part of a longer route or a lovely alternative for a gentle stroll. The limited accessibility and occasional rougher paths are minor drawbacks for some.
"Worth it once.
You wander down from Hartington, through the trees, and eventually arrive by the river. And it’s Heavenly. If you wanted God to paint a picture of a riverside walk in summer, this would be very close to it
In terms of wandering, it’s flat all the way along the river, easy trails, with a narrow bridge at the southern end on the way to Wolfescote Dale.
So why the worth it once? It’s not the easiest to get to, and whilst it is absolutely gorgeous, it’s not a day out. It’s something you walk along as part of a longer route."
DavidStaGr
"Had a lovely from Harrington via Beresford Dale. It's a nice easy trail that's easy to follow an leads to many other circular or point to point walks. We accessed the Dale from near the public toilets in Hartington before looping round in the direction of Biggin and the Tissington trail but want to explore the route onwards to Milldale at later date."
Scott Follows
"Really nice alternative to Dovedale, and Hartington is a nice little village for a day out."
Gulcan Garip
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is from Hartington village. Park in the village and follow a pleasant 30-minute walk down to the dale. Limited parking is also available via Beresford Lane.
While direct public transport to the dale itself is limited, you can reach Hartington village by bus, from where you can walk into the dale.
From Hartington, follow signs towards the river. The paths leading into the dale are generally well-trodden, but carrying a map is always advisable.
Walk down from Hartington village, often near the public toilets, towards the River Dove. This leads you directly into the dale.
The Peak Sightseer bus (Blue Route) offers stunning views across the Peak District, connecting areas like Chatsworth to Castleton, providing a scenic way to explore the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Beresford Dale is a natural area within the Peak District National Park and is free to enter.
As an open natural landscape, Beresford Dale does not have set opening or closing hours. It is accessible at all times.
The Peak District National Park itself is free to enter. Charges may apply for specific car parks or attractions within the park.
No booking is required for general access and walking in Beresford Dale.
Visiting on weekdays, especially in the early mornings, or during off-peak seasons like spring or autumn will offer a more tranquil experience.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Beresford Dale offers gentle, flat riverside walks perfect for easy strolls. It's also a starting point for longer, more challenging hikes into Wolfscote Dale and surrounding areas. +1
The flat riverside paths are good for families, but the rocky and uneven sections mean it's not suitable for prams. Keep a close eye on young children near the river.
The primary attractions are the serene River Dove, dramatic limestone scenery, and the peaceful atmosphere. You might also spot a medieval tower.
Yes, Pike Pool in Beresford Dale is known as a spot for wild swimming for those seeking an adventurous dip.
Dogs are generally welcome in the Peak District National Park, including Beresford Dale, but should be kept under control, especially near livestock and wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no facilities directly within Beresford Dale. However, Hartington village offers several pubs, cafes, and a farm shop for refreshments.
Hartington village is the closest hub for food, with options ranging from traditional pubs to cafes and a farm shop.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. You can find scenic spots along the River Dove or even in a cave mouth for a unique experience.
The Hartington Farm Shop and Cafe is highly recommended for lunch or treats after your walk.
Hartington offers typical pub fare, light lunches, and local produce, including cheese, which is a local specialty.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene River Dove, dramatic limestone formations, misty mornings, and the lush greenery. The interplay of light and mist is particularly beautiful.
Early mornings often provide beautiful mist rising off the river, while late afternoons can offer softer light. Golden hour can be stunning.
Look for the picturesque bridges over the River Dove, the striking rock and cliff formations, and any hidden medieval towers.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can help capture details of the cliffs. A polarizing filter can enhance the water and sky.
Drone usage in national parks can be restricted. Always check the latest regulations for the Peak District National Park before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Hikers & Dog Walkers
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Dales: Beresford, Wolfscote, and Beyond
+5These walks are renowned for their natural beauty and relative tranquility compared to the more famous Dovedale. The paths are generally well-maintained, though some sections can be rocky or muddy, requiring appropriate footwear. The landscape is characterized by limestone cliffs, ancient woodlands, and the meandering River Dove. Keep an eye out for wildlife and the unique geological features that define the area.
For those seeking a longer adventure, routes can extend to Milldale or connect with the Tissington Trail, offering varied walking experiences. The combination of easy riverside strolls and more challenging ascents makes this area a versatile destination for hikers of all levels. Remember to always carry a map and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Hartington: The Gateway to Beresford Dale
+2The village itself is worth exploring, with its charming stone buildings and central duck pond. From Hartington, the walk down to Beresford Dale is relatively short, typically around 30 minutes, and offers a gentle introduction to the Peak District's natural beauty. This accessibility, combined with its amenities, makes Hartington a popular base for exploring the White Peak area.
For those relying on public transport, Hartington is accessible by bus, making it a viable option for car-free exploration of Beresford Dale and the wider Peak District. The village's location provides easy access to various walking routes, catering to both leisurely strolls and more ambitious hikes.
Wild Swimming and Adventure in Beresford Dale
Beyond swimming, the dramatic limestone scenery provides a backdrop for exploration. You can find picnic spots in secluded areas, or even within cave mouths for a truly memorable experience. The rugged terrain and natural features encourage a sense of discovery, making it feel like an expedition into a prehistoric land.
While the main riverside paths are gentle, the surrounding areas offer more challenging terrain for hikers. Combining a walk with a wild swim or a picnic in a unique location transforms a simple hike into an adventure. Always prioritize safety, be aware of water conditions, and respect the natural environment.
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