The Dove rises as several minor streams in the parish of Bacton at around 63 metres above sea level.

Here it is joined by Gold Brook, before emptying into the River Waveney at the county boundary with Norfolk.

[2] The stream known as Gold Brook flows around 8 kilometres (5.0 mi) north from the parish of Southolt through Redlingfield to Hoxne before emptying into the River Dove.

It is here that, according to legend, King Edmund the Martyr hid from the invading Danes.

[3] The river passes alongside the town of Eye, known for its important medieval castle.