Eyam: More Than the Plague Village of Derbyshire

This article will take you on a journey through Eyam, exploring its history, culture, and the many experiences it offers to those who visit.

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Eyam: More Than the Plague Village of Derbyshire

1. A Historical Overview of Eyam
2. Exploring Eyam Today
3. Eyam's Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
4. Local Crafts and Shopping
5. Events and Festivals
6. Accommodation and Dining
7. Conclusion

1. A Historical Overview of Eyam

Eyam is a small village with a remarkable and poignant history. Often referred to as the "Plague Village," Eyam is best known for the extraordinary sacrifice its inhabitants made during the bubonic plague outbreak in 1665-1666. This village, which appears on the surface to be like any other quaint English settlement, is a place where history comes alive, and where the courage, resilience, and humanity of its people are remembered and honoured.

In addition to its historical significance, Eyam is also a beautiful village, offering visitors a wealth of attractions, from historic buildings and museums to scenic walks and local crafts. This article will take you on a journey through Eyam, exploring its history, culture, and the many experiences it offers to those who visit.

1.1 Eyam and the Plague

Eyam’s most defining moment in history came in 1665, when the village was struck by an outbreak of the bubonic plague. The plague had spread through Europe and had devastated London earlier that year. Eyam, a remote village in the heart of Derbyshire, might have been spared if not for a chance event that brought the deadly disease to its doorstep.

The story begins in August 1665, when a tailor named George Viccars received a parcel of cloth from London. Unbeknownst to him, the cloth was infested with fleas carrying the plague. Within days, Viccars fell ill and died, and soon others in the village began to show symptoms of the disease. The plague, characterised by fever, chills, and the appearance of painful swellings or "buboes," was highly contagious and almost always fatal.

As the death toll in the village began to rise, the villagers of Eyam faced an unimaginable decision. They could flee the village, risking the spread of the plague to neighbouring communities, or they could isolate themselves, effectively sealing their own fate but potentially saving countless lives. Led by the village’s rector, William Mompesson, and his predecessor, Thomas Stanley, the villagers chose the latter course.

This act of self-sacrifice is what has made Eyam famous. The village was quarantined, with a boundary marked by a series of stones surrounding the village, known as the Boundary Stones. These stones were used for trading with the outside world, with villagers leaving money soaked in vinegar to pay for food and supplies that were left by those from neighbouring communities.

The quarantine lasted for 14 months, during which time the village was ravaged by the plague. Of the approximately 350 inhabitants, around 260 perished. Despite the enormous loss, the actions of the villagers prevented the plague from spreading to other areas, and Eyam’s story has become a symbol of selflessness and community spirit.

1.2 Post-Plague History

After the plague, Eyam slowly recovered, and life in the village gradually returned to normal. The village continued to thrive as a farming community, and the story of the plague became a part of its identity, passed down through generations.

In the centuries that followed, Eyam became a place of pilgrimage for those interested in its unique history. The village’s association with the plague has shaped its development, with many of its historic buildings and landmarks preserved as a testament to the events of 1665-1666.

2. Exploring Eyam Today

Today, Eyam is a place where history and modern life coexist in harmony. The village retains its historic charm, with many buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Visitors to Eyam can explore a variety of attractions that bring the village’s history to life, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding Peak District.

2.1 Eyam Museum

The Eyam Museum is the best place to start your exploration of the village’s history. The museum, located in the heart of the village, provides a detailed account of the plague and its impact on Eyam. Through a series of informative displays and exhibits, visitors can learn about the events that unfolded in the village, the lives of the people who lived there, and the wider context of the plague in 17th-century England.

The museum houses a range of artefacts from the period, including personal items belonging to some of the villagers who perished during the plague. There are also exhibits on the medical understanding of the plague at the time, the role of religion in the villagers’ decision to isolate themselves, and the legacy of Eyam’s story.

In addition to its focus on the plague, the museum also explores other aspects of Eyam’s history, including its industrial heritage, with displays on lead mining, a key industry in the area during the 18th and 19th centuries.

2.2 Eyam Parish Church

Eyam Parish Church, also known as St. Lawrence’s Church, is one of the village’s most important historical sites. The church dates back to the 13th century and has been at the centre of village life for centuries. It is here that William Mompesson, the rector who led the village during the plague, preached to his congregation and made the difficult decision to isolate the village.

The church is home to several memorials related to the plague, including the tomb of Katherine Mompesson, the rector’s wife, who died during the outbreak. Inside the church, visitors can also find a plaque commemorating the villagers who lost their lives during the plague, as well as the original parish records that document the deaths.

One of the most poignant features of the churchyard is the "plague graves," a group of graves where many of the plague victims were buried. These simple, unadorned graves are a stark reminder of the village’s tragic past.

2.3 Plague Cottages

Scattered throughout Eyam are several "Plague Cottages," where some of the most notable stories from the plague years took place. These cottages have been preserved, and many still bear plaques with the names of the families who lived there and perished during the outbreak.

One of the most famous is the "Riley Graves," located just outside the village. Here, Elizabeth Hancock buried six of her children and her husband within eight days. To prevent the spread of the disease, she dug their graves herself and laid them to rest. The site is a moving testament to the suffering endured by the villagers during the plague.

Another notable site is the cottage of the Thorpe family, where the entire household, except for one member, died of the plague. The lone survivor, Mary Talbot, went on to live a long life, and her story is one of the many personal tragedies that are remembered in Eyam.

2.4 The Boundary Stones

The Boundary Stones that marked the quarantine limit around Eyam are another important historical feature of the village. These stones, which were placed at various points around the village, were where the villagers would leave money soaked in vinegar to pay for food and supplies. The vinegar was believed to disinfect the money, preventing the spread of the plague.

Several of these stones still exist today, with the most famous being the Mompesson’s Well. This well, located on the outskirts of the village, was one of the main points of contact between Eyam and the outside world during the quarantine. Visitors can walk to the well and see the coins that were left there, a poignant reminder of the villagers’ isolation and the measures they took to protect others.

2.5 The Lydgate Graves

The Lydgate Graves are another significant site related to the plague. Located just outside the village, these graves are where Margaret Blackwell and her two sons were buried after they died from the plague. The graves are marked by simple headstones, and the site is set in a peaceful, secluded area, offering a quiet place for reflection.

The story of the Lydgate family is one of many that illustrate the devastating impact of the plague on individual families and the community as a whole. The graves serve as a reminder of the personal sacrifices made by the villagers during this dark period in history.

3. Eyam’s Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

While Eyam is best known for its history, the village is also set in some of the most beautiful countryside in the Peak District. The area around Eyam offers a variety of outdoor activities, from walking and cycling to exploring the local flora and fauna.

3.1 Walking in Eyam

Eyam is surrounded by a network of footpaths and trails that offer stunning views of the Peak District’s rolling hills, valleys, and limestone cliffs. One of the most popular walks is the Eyam Moor Walk, which takes you up onto the moors above the village. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Hope Valley and the Great Ridge.

Another popular walk is the route to the nearby village of Stoney Middleton. This walk takes you through beautiful woodlands and past historic sites, including the Plague Cottages and Boundary Stones. The route is relatively easy, making it suitable for walkers of all abilities.

For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Eyam to Foolow Circular Walk is a great option. This longer route takes you through a variety of landscapes, including farmland, moorland, and ancient woodlands. Along the way, you’ll pass several historic sites, including the Riley Graves and the Lydgate Graves, as well as the charming village of Foolow, with its picturesque duck pond and historic church.

3.2 Cycling

Cycling is another popular activity in the Eyam area, with several well-marked cycling routes that cater to all levels of experience. The quiet country lanes and scenic trails around Eyam offer a great way to explore the Peak District’s natural beauty.

One of the most popular cycling routes is the Monsal Trail, a former railway line that has been converted into a traffic-free path for walkers and cyclists. The trail runs for 8.5 miles from Blackwell Mill to Bakewell, passing through stunning scenery and several historic sites along the way. The trail is relatively flat, making it accessible for cyclists of all abilities.

For more experienced cyclists, the roads around Eyam offer some challenging climbs and descents, with routes taking you through the heart of the Peak District’s rugged landscape. The area is popular with road cyclists, who come to test themselves on the steep hills and winding roads that characterise the region.

3.4 Wildlife and Nature

The area around Eyam is rich in wildlife, with a variety of habitats supporting a diverse range of species. The moorlands and woodlands around the village are home to a variety of birds, including grouse, curlew, and skylark, while the limestone dales are known for their wildflowers, including the rare Jacob’s Ladder and several species of orchid.

For those interested in botany, the area around Eyam is a treasure trove of native plants and wildflowers. The limestone grasslands are particularly rich in species, with a variety of colourful flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The woodlands around the village are also home to a range of trees, including oak, ash, and birch, as well as a variety of ferns and mosses.

The village itself is home to several gardens and green spaces where you can enjoy the local flora. The village green, located in the centre of Eyam, is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the surrounding countryside. Many of the cottages in the village also have beautiful gardens, with a variety of flowers and plants that add to the charm of the village.

4. Local Crafts and Shopping

Eyam is home to a thriving community of artists and craftspeople, and the village offers a range of shopping opportunities for those interested in local crafts and produce.

4.1 Eyam Hall Craft Centre

One of the best places to explore local crafts is the Eyam Hall Craft Centre, located in the grounds of Eyam Hall. The craft centre is home to a variety of independent shops and studios, where you can find handmade jewellery, ceramics, textiles, and other unique items. The craft centre also hosts regular workshops and events, giving visitors the opportunity to learn new skills and meet the local artisans.

Eyam Hall itself is a beautiful Jacobean manor house, built in the 17th century by the Wright family, who were prosperous local landowners. The hall is open to the public and offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a wealthy family in the post-plague period. The hall’s gardens are also open to visitors and offer a peaceful retreat, with a variety of plants and flowers to enjoy.

4.2 Local Markets

Eyam also hosts a regular market, where you can find a range of local produce, including fresh vegetables, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. The market is a great place to pick up some local delicacies and to support the village’s small-scale farmers and producers.

In addition to the market, there are several shops in the village where you can buy locally made products, including handmade soaps, candles, and other gifts. The village’s post office and general store also stock a range of local products, as well as everyday essentials.

5. Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, Eyam hosts a variety of events and festivals that celebrate the village’s history, culture, and community spirit. These events offer visitors a chance to experience the village’s unique character and to take part in traditional celebrations.

5.1 Eyam Plague Sunday

One of the most important events in the village’s calendar is Eyam Plague Sunday, which takes place on the last Sunday in August. This annual event commemorates the sacrifice of the villagers during the plague and includes a church service at Cucklett Delf, an open-air site on the outskirts of the village. The service is followed by a procession through the village, with participants carrying wreaths and flowers to lay at the plague graves.

Plague Sunday is a deeply moving event that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is a time for reflection and remembrance, as well as a celebration of the village’s resilience and community spirit.

5.2 Eyam Carnival

Eyam Carnival is another popular event that takes place in the village each year. The carnival, which usually takes place in late August, includes a parade, live music, dancing, and a variety of stalls and attractions. The carnival is a fun and festive occasion that brings the whole village together and offers visitors a chance to experience the lively community spirit of Eyam.

5.3 Well Dressing

Like many villages in Derbyshire, Eyam has a long tradition of well dressing, a custom that dates back to pagan times. The well dressings in Eyam are elaborate displays made from natural materials such as flowers, leaves, and seeds, arranged to create intricate designs. The well dressings are created by local volunteers and are displayed around the village during the summer months.

The well dressing ceremony is accompanied by a range of events, including a procession, a church service, and a variety of entertainment. The well dressings are a beautiful and unique tradition that showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of the local community.

6. Accommodation and Dining

Eyam offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from cosy bed and breakfasts to self-catering cottages and country inns. Many of the accommodation options in the village are housed in historic buildings, offering a unique and authentic experience.

6.1 Eyam Hall

For those looking for a more luxurious stay, Eyam Hall offers guest rooms in the manor house and in a nearby cottage. The rooms are beautifully decorated and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The hall’s gardens are also open to guests, providing a peaceful and relaxing setting.

6.2 Local Pubs and Restaurants

When it comes to dining, Eyam has several options to suit all tastes and budgets. The village’s pubs, such as The Miners Arms and The Bulls Head, offer traditional pub fare, with a range of hearty dishes made from local ingredients. These pubs are also a great place to relax with a drink and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

For something more special, there are several restaurants and cafes in the village that offer a range of dishes, from traditional English cuisine to more contemporary options. Many of these establishments focus on using locally sourced produce, ensuring that you can enjoy a taste of Derbyshire during your stay.

7. Conclusion

Eyam is a village that offers a unique and deeply moving experience for visitors. Its history, marked by the extraordinary sacrifice of its inhabitants during the plague, is remembered and honoured in every corner of the village. Yet Eyam is more than just a place of historical significance; it is a living, breathing community that offers a warm welcome to all who visit.

Whether you are exploring the village’s historic sites, walking in the beautiful surrounding countryside, or simply enjoying a meal in one of its cosy pubs, Eyam is a place that leaves a lasting impression. It is a village where the past and present come together in a way that is both inspiring and humbling, and where the spirit of the people who lived there continues to resonate through the ages.

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Other Towns

Peak District
Ashbourne
Bakewell
Buxton
Castleton
Chatsworth
Eyam
Haddon
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