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!
- Booking essential
This is an opportunity to explore the geology, archaeology and landscape in an area to the west of Ilam and enjoy the splendid views of Thorpe Cloud, Bunster Hill and Dove Dale. The walk is roughly five miles and roughly four and a half hours, with lots of stops where you'll discover fun and exciting facts about this ancient landscape!
This walk is packed with information, stunning views and hands on history for all the family to get involved in! Join us for a wonderful walk in the White Peak to see and understand the incredible landscape through a whole new lens.
Walk summary: Ilam Park Stable Yard meet 10am for briefing. Walk through Ilam Park, cross St Bertram’s Bridge, ascent towards Blore. Path around south Hazelton Clump to first site: Carboniferous limestone anticline & Lime Kiln in small quarry. North to Musden Low, a Bronze Age Tumulus. Views of other tumuli. Discuss origins, age, 19th-century finds. Gentle descent to Upper Musden, east views of Bunster Hill, Thorpe Cloud, Dove Dale. Ridge path views across Ilam Park to Bunster Hill & Thorpe Cloud. Near Musden Grange, vertical limestone outcrop (fault-deformed strata, scarp to River Manifold). Descend steep fault scarp to Manifold bridge, back to Ilam Park. Detour to small quarry: complex faulting. Another anticline by path returning to Ilam Tea Room.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| Adult | £5.00 |
| Child (11+) | £2.00 |
The basics
- Booking details
Call 0344 249 1895
- Suitability
Event suitable for adults and children over 11.
- Meeting point
Meet in the stableyard, where you will also find directions our Manifold Tearoom and the toilets.
- What to bring and wear
Wear sturdy shoes and come prepared for the weather, that might be sunhats or raincoats. Bring a snack or something to eat as the walk runs over lunchtime.
- Accessibility
The route will go onto public footpaths and uphill.
- Other
There is no admission charge for entry to Ilam Park and for our guided walks your car parking is included in the price of the ticket.
Upcoming events
Dovedale Big Litter Pick
Join us for a few hours at Dovedale and get your steps in, picking litter along the valley so the National Nature Reserve remains a great place for nature and people alike.
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: Discover the History of Ilam Park
Take in the beauty of the valley, as our experienced guide leads you on a journey through the rich and captivating history of Ilam Park.
Ilam Park: May Power of the Poles led by Walxwhitepeak
A 90 minute session that will help you understand just how beneficial nordic walking can be and how it is far more than just walking with poles! Come and find out how to turn a walk into a workout.