Rural idyll, riverside bliss, wildflower meadows, and wildlife-rich woodlands combine on this stunning final stage.

With 17.5 miles (28.2 km) of distance and 1,275 feet (389 m) of climbing, this is a very challenging hike.

As there is more downhill than up, though, and a gently-undulating terrain, the miles might not feel as hard as you think. (For advice on how to shorten/split the route, see below).

From Brassington, the trail heads west over farmland, past Parwich, and then skirts south to Tissington.

Shortly before the village of Thorpe, a good choice for a pit stop, this hike takes a detour to see the delights of Dovedale; complete with ash woodland, wildflower grassland, crystal-clear river water, stepping stones, and caves to explore.

You rejoin the trail below Thorpe, cross the River Dove via Coldwall Bridge and then climb steeply out of the valley.

The trail reaches a high point at Woodhouses and then descends through Harlow Wood, Stanton Wood, Dyson Wood, and Gold’s Wood.

You skirt Ellastone and continue to Rocester, where this stage and the Limestone Way finishes. Rocester has some accommodation, options for food and drink, as well as shops and other attractions.

A simple way to shorten this hike is to miss the Dovedale detour, which shaves-off 1.2 miles (1.9 km). If you want to split the hike, Thorpe is a good choice as it has accommodation, places to eat and drink, and is roughly halfway.