High on Derwent Edge, Dovestone Tor has a wilder feel than most crags in the area. The longer walk in, and the fact that the sharp, gritty rock can sometimes be green, mean that it’s rarely busy up here – a perfect place to escape the crowds on a dry, sunny day.
The longest routes at Dovestone Tor are up to 20m, but the majority are around 8-12m – and plenty of these are at the Diff and Severe grades.
Aim for the Great Buttress area, which has a range of quality routes on interesting pocketed rock. Recommended routes include Dovestone Wall (VDiff), Slocum (S4a), Barney Rubble (VS4c), and Great Buttress (HVS5a).
A couple of minutes walk away, Route 1 Buttress also has worthwhile routes – in particular two classics: Route 1 (VS4c) and Lancaster Flyby (E15b).
Dovestone Tor offers a classic moorland grit experience, with stunning views out across the Derwent Valley and Ladybower reservoir. Complete the day with a visit to the Strines Inn, a historic local pub serving great food – especially Sunday lunch, which comes complete with giant Yorkshire puddings. Bonus: it has peacocks in the garden.