Welcome to the Dipper!

The Dovedale Dipper is a challenging trail event for runners and walkers in the Peak District National Park. Based in the picturesque village of Hartington, there is a choice of distances on two great routes which explore a wonderful part of the white peak area. 

The Dipper is a popular fixture with both runners and hikers, who travel from far and wide to take part. It was organised by the Matlock Rotary Club from 2003 until the 2019 event, which they announced would be the last. However, as the Dipper had been one of our favourite events, which we'd enjoyed taking part in for many years, we couldn't let it die. So we're delighted that the team at Matlock Rotary agreed to hand over the reins to Peak Running for us to continue organising from 2020 onwards. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we were unable to host the event in 2020 and 2021 and so the 2022 Dipper is a long anticipated fixture in many runners' and hikers' calendars! 

Both the long and short routes take participants on a challenging but extremely scenic journey through the hills, valleys and villages on the Derbyshire-Staffordshire border. 

The Big Dipper
Our long route is comfortably a marathon distance (some may even claim it's an ultra as it's closer to 27-miles than 26!). It's an anticlockwise route exploring both the Dove and Manifold valleys, sometimes weaving around the hills and sometimes going over them to provide some spectacular views. 

The Little Dipper
The shorter route provides a great options for those who aren't up for a full marathon distance, or would like a more leisurely day out in the Peaks. It's not to be underestimated though, as you don't get to avoid the best hills.

Event Information

Taking Part

FAQs