Things To Do In The Peak District
The Peak District
The Peak District is Britain’s original National Park, its roots stretching back almost a century. Covering 555 square miles across Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire, and Greater Manchester, it remains a landscape that has shaped — and been shaped by — generations.
These uplands were the stage for the pioneering ‘mass trespass’ events of the 1930s, whose spirit helped lay the foundations for the protected landscapes and public access we enjoy today. Over the decades, the Peak District has stood at the crossroads of history — from devastating wildfires and the silent demise of steam railways, to its secret wartime role as the training ground for the Dambusters.
Today, visitors from across the world come to experience this living landscape. Its all-access trails open up the outdoors to everyone, while its renowned climbing, running, hiking, wild swimming and cycling routes challenge everyone.
Home to more than 38,000 residents, community spirit remains the heartbeat of the Peak District — whether you’re sampling local flavours, celebrating at annual festivals, or discovering your creative side.
If you’re ready to reconnect with nature, the Peak District is ready to welcome you — with open skies, open paths, and a warm heart.
Attractions
Historic Village of Eyam
Eyam became famous after the Black Death of 1665 / 1666. After an outbreak of the plague was discovered (spread from a parcel of wet cloth, that contained fleas) was sent from London to the local village tailor. The village reacted quickly and decided to try to reduce the spread of the disease to outside Eyam.
To be able to still get supplies into the village a boundary was created. The boundry was marked by troughs filled with vinegar to help kill off the disease. Villagers would leave payment for supplies at the troughs and return later for supplies so contact with outsiders was not made. No one was allowed to enter or leave the village. The actions of the villagers no doubt saved many lives in the surrounding local community but did cost the lives of 260 villagers out of a population of 800 affecting 76 families. With the use of these quarantine techniques, the medical world today uses Eyam as a case study in the prevention of disease.
Why not visit the Museum in the village to gain more knowledge of the history. Mompesson’s Well is located just down the road from Ladywash Cottage as is the Museum. This well was a boundary stone where money was left in vinegar for exchange for food and goods. Also on the edge of the village are the Riley Graves a poignant spot where 8 members of the same family were buried.
Eyam is a lovely village to stroll through. There are information boards on a number of the buildings in the village, as well as interpretation boards at the car park. The museum has a range of pamphlets on the village’s history, and these and others may be obtained from shops in the village.
Eyam Museum click here. For more information about the village click here