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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.

As you adventure into Dovedale discover our Hidden Wildlife photography outdoor exhibition and take a peak at the nature we’ve seen enjoying the valley.

This event 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

Event ticket prices

Ticket typeTicket 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.

Contact info

White Peak Estate Office

Upcoming events

Ilam Park: 2026 Guided Walks: Literary Legends of the White Peak 

Discover the White Peak's literary secrets Explore the landscapes that inspired Jane Austen, Wordsworth, Byron, and more. Join our guided walk from Ilam Park and uncover the connections between these iconic authors and the Peak District.

Event summary

on
16 May 2026
at 10:00 to 14:30

Ilam Park: May Half Term Nature Creators! 

Escape into nature at Ilam Park this May half term and capture it all in your own Nature Journal! Sketch the stunning views, colour in wildflowers, and collect found treasures.

Event summary

on
23 May to 31 May 2026
at 10:30 to 14:30+ 8 other dates or times

Ilam Park: YHA Kids Creative Nature Writing Drop in 

Drop in and get creative! Write a wonderful story about your adventures or the perfect nature poem.

Event summary

on
25 May 2026
at 10:00 to 16:00

Ilam Park: Family Guided Walk: Geology, Archaeology and Landscape 

Ever wondered about how this magnificent landscape was created? want to learn more about the people who first called it home, and how you can spot their marks on the landscape? This is the walk for your family!

Event summary

on
28 May to 29 Oct 2026
at 10:00 to 14:30+ 2 other dates or times