Enjoy your access: Plan your visit

Making the most of your visit to Ilam Park

Whether you fancy heading out for a walk or taking part in many of the activities and events that take place throughout the year, you will be sure to have a wonderful time in the peaceful grounds of Ilam Park. There are family trails available every school holiday and there is a permanent orienteering course available all year round.

Head out in to the wider estate for walks through woodland and climb to the top of rolling hills that take in spectactular views across the Manifold Valley; blow away the cobwebs with a walk to the summit of Thorpe Cloud or stroll beside the River Manifold and listen to the gentle sounds of the meandering water. When planning your adventures please make sure you have the correct footwear and outdoor attire and be prepared for all weathers. For any further advice on walk routes, visitors can pop in to our shop in the stableyard where they will find a wide range of local walking guides and maps, and our friendly team are always happy to help.

Circular walks are always a favourite when exploring somewhere new and there is a 1 mile circular walk in Ilam Park across the parkland, beside the River Manifold and past Ilam Hall. If visiting Ilam Park for the first time head to the Visitor Centre and pick up our free leaflet that contains the route map and get exploring! The route is dog friendly and includes slopes, gates, uneven paths and can be muddy in places. Dogs on leads are always welcome to Ilam Park and you'll find water bowls and parking hooks by the stableyard and the Manifold Tea-room.
 

The beautiful Ilam Hall is now used as a YHA youth hostel, offering accommodation all year round. The surrounding gardens and parkland are cared for all year round by our dedicated team of White Peak rangers and volunteers, with much of the open parkland grazed year round by sheep.

Lunches are available in the Manifold Tea-room including seasonal dishes and local favourites such as Derbyshire oatcakes and Derbyshire tealoaf. If you're wanting to dine alfresco then why not pack a picnic and a comfy blanket and find a peaceful spot by the River Manifold. Please remember to take any litter home with you or dispose of in the nearest bin to help us protect the beauty of Ilam Park and to keep all the wildlife safe and happy. BBQs and campfires are not permitted in Ilam Park, Dovedale and the White Peak, please support us to protect the landscape and wildlife that lives here.

Many visitors to Ilam are often curious about the village church which is not owned by the National Trust but is however open daily to the public and inside you will find insightful information on the village history and St Bertram. The quaint and picturesque houses and gardens that can be admired in the village are privately owned and are not available to visit so please be respectful of our neighbours and their privacy.