The River Dove is a 45-mile river rising in the moors near Buxton and flowing south before joining the River Trent. For much of its length it traces the border between Derbyshire and Staffordshire, passing through the Peak District National Park. The river meanders past Hartington and cuts through several dales, most notably Dovedale, which is famous for its stepping stones and the landmark hill of Thorpe Cloud.

No paddling licence is required on the River Dove. The upper reaches tend to be very shallow and are considered environmentally sensitive, making them largely unsuitable for paddling. The river is also popular with fly fishers throughout its length, which is worth bearing in mind when planning a trip. The lower section, beyond Sudbury, contains a series of weirs that require care when navigating.

The river is suitable for canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard. Given the shallow and sensitive nature of the upper reaches, paddlers are best advised to focus on the more accessible lower sections of the river. The stretch through Dovedale offers notable scenery, including the well-known stepping stones and views of Thorpe Cloud.