Ilam Park: Guided Walk: Geology and Archaeology in the 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 you!
- 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 time to ‘stand and stare’; appreciate the scenery, discuss the landscape, its geology, archaeology and take photographs.
This walk is packed with information, stunning views and hands on history. 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.
We grade our guided walks A, B or C depending on how challenging the walk will be. This walk is graded B - a medium walk with some hills and inclines.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| Adult | £6.00 |
| Child | £4.00 |
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 up hill.
- 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
Ilam Park: Highlighted Event: Mole Hole installation by Bruce Asbestos
Ilam Park is thrilled to announce an exciting partnership with the acclaimed contemporary artist Bruce Asbestos, bringing a vibrant and imaginative new artwork inspired by our stunning landscape.
Ilam Park: Go on a Mole Mission
Go on a Mole Mission and explore Ilam Park and see where Pepperpot the Mole has been popping up. Uncover fun mole facts along the way—it’s free and full of surprises!
Ilam Park: Guided Walk: along the River Manifold and back
A six-mile walk starting with a riverside walk, then crossing Coldwall Bridge and climbing up to the village of Thorpe and on to Hamston Hill before visiting Dovedale and finally enjoying the views on the return to Ilam Park.
Ilam Park: Canihike
Join us for an exciting new kind of event with your four legged friend!