Set in a magical valley where the rivers Dove and Manifold meet. Ilam Hall is a great spot to wander. In the corner of the formal garden is a tower, if you go down the spiral staircase it takes you to the river. You can also walk from Alstonefield to Ilam all the way along the famous River Dove with its caves and spires. Walk down the hill to Milldale, you shouldn’t miss visiting Polly’s Cottage for a coffee or pastie, cross over the bridge and follow the river. About half way down there is a footbridge at Ilam Rock, where you can choose to return via Hall Dale or proceed along the river. TIP I can get busy as you get towards Illam and the Stepping Stones, to avoid this cross over the footbridge and go up the steep bank through the wood and proceed along the ridge to Air Cottage. You will get great views of the valley and across the top of Ilam. The Hall has a National Trust tea rooms or just take a picnic and sit beside the river. A walk upstream will link with Musden/Rugley Wood which is an ancient coppiced wood and has a carpet of Bluebells and Wild Garlic in spring.