Dovedale: May Half Term Nature Journaling
Slow down and discover nature in Dovedale National Nature Reserve this May half term and capture it all in your own nature journal! We'll provide everything you need, just bring your imagination!
- Booking not needed
Unleash your family's inner nature explorers and artists at Dovedale National Nature Reserve! For just £3 per person, collect one of our beautifully designed Nature Journals at the Welcome Van and embark on an adventure to discover nature. get inspired and creative at our creative station by the van and then go off on your adventures into the valley. Personalise your journal, capture your discoveries in it and make it unique! After your visit take your Nature Journal home and continue to fill its pages with your family's special moments in nature, creating a treasured keepsake for years to come.
These journals can be enjoyed by all the family from tiny tots to not so grown ups. Nature is for everyone and so is nature journaling.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| All | £3.00 |
The basics
- Booking details
Call 01335 350503
- Suitability
All families welcome.
- Meeting point
Meet us at the Welcome Van and pick up you Nature Journal.
- What to bring and wear
Dress for the weather, whether that's sunhats and suncream or wellies and umbrellas, there's plenty of nature to explore whatever the weather!
- Accessibility
There is an accessible path directly to the stepping stones but unfortunately no further.
- Other
Dovedale is open to everyone and there is no admission charge. There is only a charge for car parking £6 for 4 hours and £8 all day, National Trust members and blue badge holders park for free. The Food and Beverage vans are open throughout the Peak Season, serving a range of delicious food, drinks and all important ice creams! Please note we do not allow BBQs, fires or cooking of any kind on site. We do welcome picnics but ask that you take all your litter home with you or use the bins provided.
Upcoming events
Ilam Park: February Bird Box Detectives trail
Grab you detective hat and your binoculars! It's time to explore Ilam Park and solve the puzzles to discover the beautiful birds that live here.
Ilam Park: Little Explorers Club
Step into the countryside with your little one at Ilam Park’s free monthly preschool nature club. Each session is set in the Coach House, with gentle adventures into nature, hands‑on seasonal crafts, and cosy story time.
Ilam Park: Free Regular Relaxed Ramble
Join us for a free gentle walk in the countryside, enjoy a gentle pace and all the benefits of getting outside in nature. Coffee and tea included at the end of the walk.
Ilam Park: 2026 Guided Walks: Map Reading for Beginners
Join us for the day and learn a skill that has been used to travel the world for thousands of years!