Dovedale's stepping stones damaged by storms - again

Visitors are being warned not to cross Dovedale stepping stones, one of the Peak District's most popular landmarks, due to one of the stones becoming dislodged.

The National Trust said the crossing was now "unsafe" following heavy rain over the past few months and a "large amount of debris remains".

It comes after the crossing reopened to visitors in September 2024 following damage caused by Storm Babet in October 2023.

Councillor Charlotte Hill, Derbyshire County Council's cabinet member for potholes, highways and transport, said repairs were planned in the "next couple of months" when water levels were lower.

Hill urged walkers not to use the stepping stones and take a different route until the repairs were done.

First laid in about 1890 for Victorian tourists, people can walk between Derbyshire and Staffordshire by crossing the stones.

The stones were acquired by the National Trust in 1934, and Dovedale was declared a National Nature Reserve in 2006 in a bid to further protect it.

But in recent times, the beauty spot has been plagued by bad weather and safety issues.

A bridge a few hundred metres downstream provides a safe route across the river, but crowds continue to cross the stones.

A National Trust spokesperson said: "One of the stepping stones at Dovedale became dislodged after heavy rain over the winter months, making the route unsafe.

"Derbyshire County Council, who is responsible for the care of the stones, are aware of situation.

"Signage is in place to advise visitors that the stones are not safe to use."

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