Ilam Park and Ilam Hall Staffordshire
A picturesque National Trust parkland in the Peak District, perfect for family adventures and walks to the iconic Dovedale Stepping Stones.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Ilam Park and Ilam Hall Staffordshire
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque National Trust parkland in the Peak District, perfect for family adventures and walks to the iconic Dovedale Stepping Stones.
"A beautiful and clean place to visit for the day, kids loved every moment!"
🚗 Parking Payment Tip
Bring coins for the parking machines or be prepared to pay by card at the cafe. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Dovedale Walk
Combine your visit with a walk to the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones for a complete experience. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ilam Hall Grounds
Ilam Park
Expansive green spaces perfect for picnics, games, and exploring with kids. Enjoy the charm of the historic buildings.
Dovedale Valley & Stepping Stones
Short walk from Ilam Park
Iconic stepping stones across the River Dove, leading to caves and stunning valley views. A must-do for walkers.
Ilam Village Church
Adjacent to Ilam Park
A beautiful and historic church offering a moment of quiet reflection amidst the natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Access
What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Payment Tip
Bring coins for the parking machines or be prepared to pay by card at the cafe. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Dovedale Walk
Combine your visit with a walk to the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones for a complete experience. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe Comforts
The cafe offers food and drinks, but be aware the chairs can be hard. :coffee:
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun
Plenty of open space for kids to play, with occasional organised activities. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Payment Tip
Bring coins for the parking machines or be prepared to pay by card at the cafe. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Dovedale Walk
Combine your visit with a walk to the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones for a complete experience. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe Comforts
The cafe offers food and drinks, but be aware the chairs can be hard. :coffee:
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun
Plenty of open space for kids to play, with occasional organised activities. :child:
🏞️ Peak District Gem
Often overlooked, Ilam Park is a beautiful spot in the Southern Peak District. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ilam Park for its beautiful landscapes, family-friendly atmosphere, and the exciting adventure of Dovedale Valley. While parking can be a minor inconvenience with coin-only machines, the overall experience is highly positive, with many enjoying the open spaces and the charm of the historic buildings.
"Visited Ilam (eye-lam) park today with the family.. we had a amazing time.
The kids loved every moment of it.. they were chasing the sheeps around, climbing hills, exploring the vast acres of landscape.
A beautiful and clean place to visit for the day.
Car parking is £6 for up to 4 hours or £8 for the day, the machines only accept coins or you can walk to the cafe and pay by card."
Nazrul Islam
"Nice large car park and looks like a overflow when very busy. There is a small cafe and information centre.
Short walk up Dovedale to stepping stones,or you can go further to caves etc."
ian foster
"Lovely park with lots of walking routes, we only came to look around briefly as it was late. Got surprised as we found a small eatery inside the Ilam hall that serves food till late evening, also a bar available with lots of drinks. Outdoors had lots of areas for kids to play in."
Jovita L.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ilam Park is located in Staffordshire, within the Peak District National Park. It's accessible by car, with the nearest major towns being Ashbourne and Bakewell. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
While buses do run to nearby villages, direct public transport to Ilam Park can be infrequent. It's best to check local bus timetables in advance if you plan to rely on them.
From Ashbourne, take the B5032 towards Ilam. The park is well-signposted. Be aware that some of the country lanes can be narrow.
The park itself offers beautiful cycling routes, and it's a popular area for cyclists exploring the Peak District.
Ilam Park has a caravan site, suggesting it can accommodate larger vehicles. However, it's always wise to check specific size restrictions and book in advance if possible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Ilam Park itself is free for National Trust members. Non-members will need to pay for parking, which covers access to the park.
Parking costs £6 for up to 4 hours or £8 for the full day. The machines typically accept coins, but you can also pay by card at the cafe.
Yes, National Trust members get free parking and access to Ilam Park.
Ilam Park is generally open year-round during daylight hours. The visitor centre and cafe have specific opening times, which can vary seasonally.
Tickets are not typically required for entry to the park itself, only for parking. It's advisable to check the National Trust website for any specific event bookings or seasonal information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the vast parklands, enjoy picnics, walk to Dovedale Stepping Stones, visit the charming village church, and relax at the cafe.
Ilam Hall itself is owned by the YHA and operates as a youth hostel. While you can admire the buildings from the outside, there isn't an interior tour for the general public.
Absolutely! Ilam Park is a gateway to numerous walking trails, including the popular route to Dovedale and its stepping stones.
Yes, it's very family-friendly with large open spaces for kids to run and play.
During peak seasons, there may be organised activities for children. It's worth checking with the visitor centre upon arrival.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located within Ilam Hall that serves food and drinks. There's also a smaller second cafe.
The cafe offers a range of food options, including meals that are served until late evening.
Definitely! Ilam Park has plenty of open green spaces perfect for picnics.
The nearest villages, like Ashbourne, offer a wider selection of restaurants and pubs if you're looking for more dining options.
Yes, there is a bar available at Ilam Hall with a selection of drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The picturesque Ilam Hall, the village church, the rolling hills of the park, and the scenic Dovedale valley offer fantastic photography opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most flattering conditions for landscape and architectural photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check the National Trust's specific drone policy.
The walk up from Ilam Park towards Dovedale offers elevated views of the valley, which are great for capturing the landscape.
Each season offers unique beauty. Spring brings blossoms, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn provides stunning fall colours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to make the most of the beautiful grounds, or utilize the cafe for snacks and meals. While there isn't an indoor house to tour, the outdoor activities and the natural playground of the park and valley offer hours of entertainment. Keep an eye out for any organised activities that might be running during your visit.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The varied terrain, from gentle parkland to more rugged valley paths, provides diverse walking experiences. The seasonal beauty of the area, especially the autumn colours, makes it a rewarding destination for nature lovers year-round. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and check weather conditions before setting out.
📸 Photographers
+1 The Dovedale Valley provides dramatic natural backdrops, especially with the iconic stepping stones. Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) is particularly magical here, casting a beautiful light on the scenery. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic subjects, from spring blossoms to autumn foliage.
Be mindful of other visitors and the environment when composing your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Dovedale Valley
Beyond the stepping stones, the valley continues to unfold with opportunities to explore caves and enjoy breathtaking vistas. The terrain can be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The natural beauty here is a significant draw, making it a highlight for many visitors.
Remember to respect the environment and leave no trace as you explore this stunning natural landscape. The combination of Ilam Park's gentle charm and Dovedale's wilder beauty creates a well-rounded outdoor experience.
The Charm of Ilam Village and Hall
+1The parkland surrounding the hall offers ample space for recreation. You'll find vast acres of landscape perfect for children to explore, chase sheep (from a safe distance, of course!), and climb gentle hills. It’s this blend of historical architecture and natural playground that makes Ilam Park so appealing for a day out.
The visitor centre and cafe are conveniently located within the park, providing essential amenities like refreshments and information. This makes it a comfortable base for a day of exploration, whether you're a National Trust member or a day visitor.
Seasonal Beauty and Activities
Autumn is particularly spectacular, with the foliage turning into a riot of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a prime time for photographers and walkers. While specific organised activities might be more prevalent during school holidays, the natural beauty of Ilam Park is a constant draw. The park is a fantastic place for hiking and nature walks, with trails catering to various fitness levels. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more challenging hike into Dovedale, there's something for everyone.
Consider visiting during off-peak times to fully appreciate the tranquility. Weekday afternoons or early mornings can offer a more serene experience, allowing you to soak in the peaceful atmosphere without the weekend crowds.
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