Peak Soap Derbyshire | Our Story

Derbyshires own Dr Richard Holloway laid the foundations for Peak Soap and the provision of natural health products as a family business. Find out more.

Peak Soap Derbyshire | Our Story

By Michael Holloway - 28.08.22

Dr Richard Holloway laid the foundations for Peak Soap and the provision of natural health products as a family business. Dr Holloway (1930 - 1999) was a much loved family  G.P. from Derbyshire. He carried out groundbreaking research demonstrating petrochemicals in household products contributed to premature skin ageing, disease and respiratory problems. He championed the use of non-synthetic ingredients in all health products.

During the 1970s and early 1980s Dr Holloway gave people more choice and a louder voice in healthcare. Something the big pharmaceutical companies that supplied surgeries did not like. These companies would distance themselves from health professionals who pointed out that synthetic products could cause harm to people.  This spirit of contrarianism was passed on to Richard's children David and Michael and wife Elizabeth who also became passionate about promoting freedom and choice in healthcare.

Elizabeth Holloway was also a huge part of Peak Soap. Elizabeth was a nurse and an experienced gardener. She financed the business and grew many of the herbs, flowers and botanics that were used as ingredients. Richard and Elizabeth met whilst working in hospital in the 1970s whilst Richard was head of department and Elizabeth a nurse. Elizabeth died in the line of duty during the 2021 COVID pandemic. She was 78, still working full time and refused to abandon her duties. She gave her life caring for her patients at the hospital she worked at in Nottingham.

Together, the Holloway family created a medley of gentle beautiful cosmetics and soap free from harsh chemicals and preservatives. Our range is inspired by the colours and smells of the Peak District, English Victorian gardens, natural products and sustainable farming methods. All our soap is made here in Bakewell in Derbyshire using organic vegetable oils and essentials oils. We try to stay true to Dr Holloways philosophy and Elizabeths love of gardening, nature and flowers.

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