VPDD Location Wirksworth Shops
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VPDD Location Wirksworth St Marys
VPDD Location Wirksworth Bookstore

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    Welcome to Wirksworth

    With a thriving arts community, Wirksworth is a magnet for lovers of history and heritage.

    Things to do in Wirksworth

    With its imposing stone buildings and intricate network of narrow lanes, yards and alleys, Wirksworth is one of Derbyshire's prettiest market towns.

    Its fortunes were built on lead mining, quarrying and textiles - introduced by industrial pioneer Sir Richard Arkwright at Haarlem Mill, considered by some to be the mill in George Eliot's novel The Mill on the Floss. Eliot is also thought to have based the fictional town of Snowfield in another novel, Adam Bede, on Wirksworth, and even DH Lawrence lived and wrote here.

    Visitors to Wirksworth are spoilt for choice for things to see and do. The Ecclesbourne Valley Railway operates services from Wirksworth to Duffield running through one of Derbyshire’s most lovely and unspoilt valleys. The spectacular Wirksworth StarDisc – a 21st century stone circle star chart – sits high above the town and illuminates the constellations at night. The National Stone Centre and Mount Cook Adventure Centre lie on the edge of Wirksworth, and in the town itself St. Mary’s Church – one of the finest in the county – is well worth a visit.

    A new award-winning Heritage Centre tells the fascinating stories of Wirksworth and its people, and regular guided walks around the town also leave from here. Like many of the Peak District and Derbyshire's market towns, Wirksworth is perhaps best explored on foot.

    Local traditions include Well Dressing, the ancient ceremony of 'Church Clypping', the annual carnival and well-known Wirksworth Arts Festival each September. This is the time to experience the buzz of street theatre, music, family events and the famous Art & Architectural Trail when more than 150 artists throw open their doors for visitors to browse and buy original and affordable art – also a chance to take a look inside some of the most historical and quirky homes and buildings in Derbyshire!

    In recent years, Wirksworth has gained popularity for its unique and quirky annual Wirksworth Wizarding Day, usually held at the end of October, when visitors can enjoy Harry Potter-themed entertainment and activity.

    In The Area

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    Business

    Great British Car Journey

    Boasting a collection of 150+ modern British classics, Great British Car Journey tells the story of the rise and fall of the British motoring…


    Business

    Weathericks and Bradstone

    Two charming 5-star cottages set in beautiful countryside with spectacular views over Carsington Water on the edge of the Peak District National…


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    Walker Peak Cottages

    Our 2 bedroom, dog friendly cottage located down a quiet lane in Wirksworth is an ideal base for a Peak District stay.


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    Sycamore Farm Barns

    Three interconnectable eco-cottages, surrounded by green space, sleep up to 20 in all and make a cosy base for couples, families, friends and…


    Alport Heights

    A popular picnic site and local landmark with extensive views of the Derwent and Ecclesbourne Valleys.


    Carsington Water

    Carsington Water has everything you need for a great day out - and best of all most facilities are free!


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    Wirksworth Leisure Centre

    A modern and spacious centre with sports facilities for everyone.


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    Teamplay Outdoor Activities

    We offer outdoor activities in a natural woodland setting in the heart of Derbyshire for family days out, stag & hen parties, birthday parties and…


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    Stainsborough Hall

    Stainsborough Hall and its five independent holiday cottages provides a beautiful base for an idyllic, pet-friendly, country getaway for the whole…


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    Hopton Hall Holiday Cottages

    Cottages enjoy shared use of facilites including an indoor heated swimming pool. An area of woodland for visitors, paddock with play area and BBQ.


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    Middleton Top Cycle Hire – High Peak Trail

    Discover the wonderful High Peak Trail with excellent cycle hire from Middleton Top Visitor Centre


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    Le Mistral

    Wirksworth's very own award-winning French-inspired bistro and wine shop.


    Our Great Itineraries

    Day trip from Sheffield: Explore Matlock Bath,…

    Discover some of Derbyshire's most popular towns and villages by bus.


    Events in Wirksworth

    Events

    Wirksworth Book Festival

    Wirksworth Book Festival celebrates the joy of books.


    Trails nearby

    Matlock to Bonsall Walk

    This beautiful 4.3 mile route from the bus stop takes you out across open countryside on field paths to the pretty village of Bonsall, offering…


    Wirksworth Circular Walk

    Starting and ending at the trentbarton Sixes bus stop in the historic market town of Wirksworth, this lovely walk takes you through some of the most…


    The Peak District GeoWalk

    The GeoWalk is a must for rock enthusiasts guiding you through the stunning Peak District landscape and rock formations.


    High Tor, Giddy Edge and Lovers Walk

    A linear walk with superb cliff-top views, from Matlock to Matlock Bath via High Tor.


    Beauty Spots nearby

    Day trip from Sheffield: Explore Matlock Bath,…

    Discover some of Derbyshire's most popular towns and villages by bus.


    Villages nearby

    Carsington

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