Dovedale Dash
Dovedale, United Kingdom • 4 Oct 2026
Dovedale Dash
The Dovedale Dash is an annual cross country race held around the village of Thorpe near Ashbourne and Dovedale in the south of the Derbyshire Peak District. The main course is 4 3/4 mile and runs mainly along field paths and open ground in the valleys of the rivers Dove and Manifold, including a river crossing at the Stepping Stones. The event is organised by local volunteers and typically involves 1200 to 1400 participants. Profits support local charitable causes and the upkeep of Thorpe Village Hall.
There is a separate children’s Mini Dash around the foot of Thorpe Cloud. The Mini Dash is approximately 1 1/4 mile and includes U12 (11 and under) and U9 (8 and under) categories; parents or guardians may accompany their children. Parking is provided on Thorpe pastures without charge, though the organisers may cancel the event in very wet conditions if the car park is sodden.
Entry arrangements and fees are set by the organisers. Typical published fees include online pre-entry for adult runners at £14 and under 18 entries at £9, with a Mini Dash entry of £5. On-day entry capacity is limited and on-day procedures may include cash only payments. The event has run since 1953 and donates surplus funds to local charities; recent distributions include donations to village hall maintenance and local charitable organisations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.