In & Around
Wirksworth
A Town & Country Location
Located in the rolling hills of the Derbyshire Dales on the edge of the Peak District National Park, historical Wirksworth has the oldest charter of any in the Peak District, dating from 835 when nearby land was granted to Duke Humbert of Mercia. Wander through its maze of beautiful alleyways, hidden passages and historical architecture which inspired several of George Eliot's novels, whilst stopping off for an artisan coffee or a meander around the array of independent shops. There are also beautiful walking trails, countryside and further attractions to explore, many of which can also be accessed on foot from the cottage - the perfect town and country location!
You can also read more about the history of Wirksworth here
The Star Disc & Stoney Wood
A short 8-minute walk from Fryers Cottage is this 21st century stone circle and celestial amphitheatre created by Wirksworth’s own Aidan Shingler. It was opened in 2011 by BBC Sky at Night presenter Pete Lawrence and esteemed astronomer and co Presenter Sir Patrick Moore. It is constructed from black and silver granite with carvings of a star chart that mirrors the northern hemisphere’s night sky. After dusk the stone circle is gently illuminated and makes a perfect spot to admire and study the stars above you. Offering excellent views of Ecclesbourne Valley in the day time, why not combine your visit with a walk around the beautiful Stoney Wood which is a community woodland reclaimed from the old Stonecroft Quarry. If its fruit picking season, why not stop off at the community Orchard to source the makings of a nice apple pie!
Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
The Ecclesbourne Valley Railway is a 6-minute walk from Fryers Cottage, and is a 9 mile heritage railway with both steam and heritage diesel operated trains running between Wirksworth to Duffield. The Railway provides beautiful views of the Ecclesbourne valley, along with welcoming customer service and luxury afternoon teas (latter should be booked in advance). Steam trains will also take you up the 1 in 27 incline to Ravenstor, where you can stop off to explore local attractions. You can also Hop on and off the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway all day with a Day Rover ticket.
Cromford Mills
Built and designed by Sir Richard Arkwright in 1771, Cromford Mills housed the world’s first industrial water-powered cotton mill. Cromford Mills was one of the first ‘factory systems’ known as a linchpin in the industrial revolution. Now a UNESCO world heritage site, access is free but you can also buy tickets to access tours, the visitors centre, and even meet Sir Richard Arkwright in the ‘Arkwright experience’. There are a variety of independent shops within the old mill buildings, two coffee shops and the adjacent workers village a few minutes’ walk away. Combine your visit with a walk between the Mill and the River Derwent where there are picnic benches, woodland sculptures to find and an array of wildflowers in spring and summer. Cromford Mills is a 7-minute drive or 45-minute walk from the Cottage. The nearest mainline train station to Fryers Cottage can also be found in Cromford.
Wirksworth Farmers Market
The Wirksworth Farmers market is held on the first Saturday of every month and catalogues a diverse range of home produce and crafts – all run by small independent businesses. Many stalls are located at the Memorial Hall and Gardens. Stalls are also located at the old Market Place (opposite the chip shop).
Wirksworth Heritage Centre
A short 4-minute walk from Fryer’s cottage is the Wirksworth Heritage Centre, which is the perfect place to discover the people and history that have made Wirksworth across both permanent and special exhibitions with additional activities for both young and old happening throughout the year. The centre is located within a building hundreds of years old, and you will discover locally woven red tape, Wirksworth’s own banknotes, Ellen MacArthur’s sailing suit and a Georgian hydrotherapy bath, just to name a few! Both guided and self-guided heritage trails are available. Why not treat yourself to a nice cup of tea and a piece of cake at Websters Cafe whilst you're there!
Northern Light Cinema
A short 4-minute walk from Fryers Cottage is the Northern Light Cinema located in the 18th century Malthouse. This cosy independent family run Cinema has comfortable sofa seating, Dolby surround sound, 2K picture quality and can seat up to 34 people within a beautiful cinematic vintage interior. The cinema aims to cater for all tastes, and shows big budget blockbusters, event screenings including ballet, opera and plays as well as classic films and the best that world cinema has to offer. The cinema also has a licensed bar where you can also pick up a snack or some popcorn.
High Peak Trail
The High Peak Trail is a 17.5-mile traffic free walking and cycling nature trail which provides breath-taking views, wonderful wildlife and a close-up of the trail’s pioneering railway heritage. The High Peak Trail follows the route of the former Cromford and High Peak Railway (one of the world's first long-distance railway lines, built between 1825 and 1830). Many important railway buildings and features can still be seen, including High Peak Junction Workshops, and Hopton Tunnel and Hopton Incline. You can access the High Peak trail at Middleton Top Visitor Centre and Cycle Hire, just outside Wirksworth, which is a short 5-minute drive from Fryers Cottage, or a 35-minute walk.
Steeple Grange Light Railway
A short 4-minute drive or 25-minute walk from the Cottage is the Steeple Grange Light Railway. Operated by Volunteers, this 18-inch gauge line is built on the track bed of the Killer’s Branch of the old Cromford and High Peak Railway. Power is provided by ex-industrial diesel, petrol, and battery-electric locomotives, and passengers are carried in old man riders once used to transport miners below ground. You can enjoy a unique 25-minute round-trip train ride up to Middleton, passing through dramatic limestone cuttings, or there is a shorter trip along the branch line into Steeple house Quarry.
Black Rocks
A popular walking and climbing area with attractive circuit walks through adjoining woods and a location used to film Pride and Prejudice. A 4-minute drive away, this small outcrop of ashover gritstone, between Cromford and Wirksworth provides beautiful views of the Dales. Black Rock is an important crag in the history of British rock climbing, and has some of the most extreme climbing routes in Britain, including Gaia. We prefer a slightly easier walk with optional picnic!
St Mary's Church
A 5-minute walk from Fryers cottage is this beautiful and imposing grade I listed church of which the current structure originates from the 13th - 15th centuries, however evidence from the Ango-Saxon period indicate the church has stood on the same site since at least the 8th century AD, and notable carvings from this period can also be found throughout the church. The church was restored in 1820 and again in 1870 by Sir Gilbert Scott and is located within a picturesque square.
National Stone Centre
Explore 40 acres of woodland walks including six former limestone quarries and panoramic views and follow the fossil trail, learn about the tropical lagoon and ancient reefs. Follow a self-guided Geo trail around this site of scientific interest and learn about the geology of the area and dry-stone walling. Visit the rock shop, gem panning and play area and enjoy a meal or snack at the Café. The National Stone Centre is a 5-minute drive or 35-minute walk from Fryers Cottage.
Matlock Bath
Provides a great day out for all ages! Located an 8-minute drive or 1 hour walk from the Cottage, Matlock Bath is set in a beautiful gorge of the river Derwent, with attractive riverside gardens, wooded hillsides and rocky limestone crags. A popular tourist destination since the late 17th Century when the spa waters were discovered, and its' heyday was in Victorian, times when it became known as "Little Switzerland" by the poet, Lord Byron. We love taking the cable car ride up to The Heights of Abraham, where the wooded country park and Victoria Prospect Tower are located. A visit to the Great Rutland and Masson Caverns which have been adapted as show caves is also a must do! The Riverside Gardens and Lovers Walks offer gentle strolls away from the crowds, and nearby High Tor affords spectacular views from its lofty summit. Half a mile south of the village is the shopping complex and working textile museum at Masson Mills which you will pass on your way to Matlock Bath from Fryers Cottage. There are lots of places to eat and drink in Matlock Bath as well as variety of gift shops.