Ten Interesting Facts About Derbyshire
The Mushroom Emporium has been based out of the heart of rural Derbyshire for the last few years and we can say with utmost confidence, we wouldn’t be anywhere else. We love it here, love the people, and love supplying some of the finest eateries that the wonderful county of Derbyshire has to offer. Derbyshire is
So, as an ode to Derbyshire, a county rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, we present 10 interesting facts about Derbyshire. If you haven’t already visited the place, hopefully, this will give you some inspiration
1. Blue John Stone: Derbyshire is known for its Blue John Stone, a rare, unique, and valuable mineral that can only be found in the caves and caverns exclusively in the Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Cavern in the Castleton area of Derbyshire. Blue John Stone is known for its distinctive coloration, which includes bands of purples, blues, and yellows, and is used to create unique and beautiful jewelry and ornaments. The name “Blue John” is derived from the French words “bleu” and “jaune,” meaning blue and yellow and the Blue John Stone, a fluorite mineral, was formed millions of years ago during the Carboniferous period.
2. Bakewell Pudding: Bakewell in Derbyshire is the birthplace of the famous Bakewell Pudding, a delicious dessert consisting of a flaky pastry base, layer of jam, and almond-flavored filling. It’s often confused with the Bakewell Tart, which has a different recipe. The main difference between the two lies in the pastry. Bakewell Pudding uses a puff pastry, while Bakewell Tart typically features a shortcrust pastry. There has been a historical debate about whether Bakewell Pudding or Bakewell Tart came first (both are believed to originate in the 19th century) While the origins are somewhat shrouded in mystery, both desserts have become iconic in their own right.
As well as being a top location for UK bingo, Bakewell hosts various events and celebrations, including the Bakewell Pudding Day, which typically takes place in July. The event includes pudding-themed activities, tastings, and festivities.
3. Peak Cavern Lights: The Peak Cavern, also known as the Devil’s Arse, is an interesting cave system located in Castleton. It hosts a unique event called “The Devil’s Arsehole Illuminations.” The cavern is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a stunning underground display.
4. Eyam Plague Village: Eyam, often referred to as the “Plague Village,” is a historic village in Derbyshire, England, known for its significant role in the history of the bubonic plague. In 1665, the village of Eyam experienced a bubonic plague outbreak. The villagers decided to isolate themselves to prevent the spread of the disease to neighboring areas. This self-imposed quarantine saved many lives but resulted in significant loss for the community.
A memorial known as the Plague Cross stands in Eyam, commemorating the villagers who lost their lives during the plague. The names of the victims are inscribed on the cross. Eyam’s story of self-sacrifice and communal responsibility during the plague has left a lasting cultural legacy. The village is a symbol of resilience and community spirit in the face of a devastating epidemic.
5. Matlock Bath Aquarium: Matlock Bath is home to a unique attraction – an aquarium built inside an old Victorian tram depot. The aquarium features a range of freshwater and tropical fish. It is also home to the largest hologram display in Europe and the site of the only remaining ‘Petrifying well’ in Matlock Bath.
6. Crich Tramway Village: Crich Tramway Village is a popular heritage tramway and museum located in Crich, Derbyshire, England. Crich Tramway Village is home to a working heritage tramway and the National Tramway Museum, an open-air museum with a diverse collection of historic trams that operates vintage trams from various parts of the world. The trams run on a mile-long track, providing visitors with a nostalgic tram ride experience.
7. Cromford Mill: Located in Cromford, Derbyshire, Cromford Mill is often considered the first successful water-powered cotton spinning mill in the world. It was built by Sir Richard Arkwright in 1771 and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
8. Well Dressing: Well dressing is a traditional custom primarily associated with Derbyshire and some parts of Staffordshire, England. This isn’t the art of putting on nice clothes. Instead, this ancient art form involves creating intricate pictures using natural materials on wooden frames, which are then displayed near wells or water sources. The custom is often linked to local festivals, celebrations, or religious events.
The village of Tissington is particularly well-known for its well dressing celebrations. Tissington’s well dressings typically take place in late May or early June and are part of a wider tradition in Derbyshire.
9. Nine Ladies Stone Circle: The Nine Ladies Stone Circle, located on Stanton Moor, is a Bronze Age circle, around 4000 – 5000 years old, consisting of nine upright stones arranged in a circular pattern, with an additional stone, known as the King Stone, standing just outside the circle. Legend has it that the stones represent nine ladies who were turned to stone as a punishment for dancing on the Sabbath.
Some researchers have noted alignments between the Nine Ladies Stone Circle and nearby natural features, suggesting a possible connection to celestial events or landscape features.
10. Eccles Pike Gravity Hill: On the road leading up to Eccles Pike, there is a section of the road where it appears that vehicles are rolling uphill against gravity. This optical illusion gives the impression that cars are defying the normal laws of physics by moving uphill without any apparent force.
This gravity hill is a popular spot for visitors who are intrigued by the peculiar visual effect. While it may seem like an unusual occurrence, gravity hills are often optical illusions created by the layout of the surrounding landscape, making it appear as if the slope of the road is different from what it is. If you visit Eccles Pike, you can experience this curious phenomenon firsthand.
Come to Derbyshire and see for yourself what a great and interesting county it is!