Tissington Hill [Reynard's Cave Hill]

About Tissington Hill [Reynard's Cave Hill]

Looming over the eastern bank of the River Dove, this limestone Tump offers a rugged perspective on the famous Dovedale valley. While crowds gather at the stepping stones, the ascent passes the dramatic natural arch of Reynard’s Cave, rewarding walkers with clear views over Thorpe Cloud and Bunster Hill.

Key Statistics

Find It

Did You Know?

• •The hill is inseparable from Reynard’s Cave, a spectacular limestone arch and cavern set into the western slope. While 'Reynard' is the traditional name for a fox in folklore, local history suggests the cave may be named after a specific individual who once used the site for shelter.
• •During the Victorian era, Dovedale became a primary destination for the first wave of mass tourism. It was common for well-to-do visitors to be led up the steep, slippery slopes of this hill to take tea inside the cave entrance, often assisted by local guides.
• •The ascent from the valley floor is a steep scramble over limestone scree. It provides an excellent vantage point to observe the valley-floor tourists appearing like miniature figures against the backdrop of the River Dove and the vertical limestone towers of Ilam Rock.
• •Geologically, the hill is composed of Carboniferous limestone, a remnant of a tropical sea floor from 350 million years ago. The cave and arch were carved by water erosion and freeze-thaw action long before the river cut its current deep course through the ravine.
• •The hill is often treated by walkers as a very steep, glorified porch for the cave; most people reach the limestone arch and consider the mission accomplished, rarely bothering to visit the actual summit.