Location
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.
Featured Businesses
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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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Weathericks and Bradstone
In The Area
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Featured
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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…
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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Alport Heights
A popular picnic site and local landmark with extensive views of the Derwent and Ecclesbourne valleys.
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National Stone Centre
The National Stone Centre (NSC) is a 40 acre Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), for its geological formations, offering outdoor and indoor…
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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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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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Activities at High Peak Trail & Middleton Top…
Discover the fascinating heritage of one of the world's first long-distance railways.
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Wirksworth Heritage Centre
A fascinating Derbyshire town on the southern edge of the Peak District, where the geology and landscape have shaped its character and its people for…
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Mount Cook Adventure Centre
A not-for-profit activity centre on the edge of the Peak District
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Wirksworth Leisure Centre
A modern and spacious centre with sports facilities for everyone.
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Black Rocks
This popular walking and climbing area has attractive circuit walks through adjoining woods, provided in cooperation with the Forestry Commission.
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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…
Villages nearby
Carsington
A peaceful little limestone village, which gave its name to the nearby Carsington Water.
Beauty spots nearby
Business Directory Black Rocks
This popular walking and climbing area has attractive circuit walks through adjoining woods, provided in cooperation with the Forestry Commission.
Business Directory 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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