2015 Derbyshire Signpost

Annual Publication - The Ultimate County GuideHistoric Buildings | Attractions | Museums & Arts

Towns & Districts | Open Airwww.countysignpost.co.uk

Issue 17 - 2015

ISSUE NO: 3

ANNUAL PUBLIC A TION – THE UL TIMA

TE COU NT Y GUIDE

Derbyshire &Staffordshire

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For further details and to enquire about our Christmas programme:

Phone 01332 341201email [email protected] visit www.derbycathedral.org

A Selection of Events and Services at Derby Cathedral .For details of other services and events

see contact details below :

Sunday 29th March 10.15am At St. Mary’s Bridge Chapel, Blessing of Palms with Ecumenicalprocession, with Cathedral Eucharist at 10.45am to follow

Thursday 2nd April 7.30pm Maundy Thursday - Eucharits of the Last Supper & Foot Washing

Good Friday 3rd April 12 noon1.30pm

The Preaching of the Cross.Liturgy of the Passion

Easter Sunday 5th April 10.45am Easter Eucharist - The Bishop of Derby preaching & presiding

Saturday 25th April 7.30pm Derby Choral Union Spring Concert

Friday 8th -

Saturday 9th May

9.30am -4.30pm

Derby Arts Festival

Saturday 16th May 11am Florence Nightingale Service

Friday 24th July 7.30pm Padley Martyrs Service at St. Mary’s on the Bridge

Saturday 3rd October 7.30pm Derby Choral Union October Concert

Saturday 21st November 7.30pm Derby Choral Union November Concert

Thursday24th December 4pm & 6.30pm11.30pm

Carol Services (Ticketed event - contact Cathedral Office)Midnight Mass

Friday 25th December 10.45am Christmas Morning Eucharist

CONTENTS

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County Signpost

Published by: County Signpost Ltd

Editor: Adam Davison

Cover image, Derby Cathedral© Sarah J Jamieson

Historic Buildings

Attractions

Museums & Arts

The Open Air

Welcome to the 2015 edition of Derbyshire,Nottinghamshire & the Potteries CountySignpost Tourist Guide, your indispensableguide to the best tourist attractions and days outthe county has to offer.

We hope that you find our guide, a pleasure toread, both interesting and informative, and thatyou will take it away with you, to use again andagain.

We offer a taster of the visitor attractions andevents within the County, for both locals andthose who wish to visit from afar.

To be featured in our next edition -please email the editor.

County Signpost LtdCounty Signpost Ltd01743 87409801743 874098

[email protected]@countysignpost.co.uk

For a free download please visitour new map-driven, online magazine website

www.countysignpost.co.uk

Please mentionDerbyshire Signpostwhen visiting any ofthe attractions.

All material in this magazine is, as far as we are aware,correct at the time of printing. County Signpost Ltd doesnot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracieswhich slipped through. Copyright County Signpost Ltd2015. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

Buxton Festival Competition Ticketssee page 41

County Signpost

THE NATIONAL TRUSTClumber Park

Clumber Park is a beautiful expanse of parkland,heath and woods covering more than 3,800acres, which was once the home of the Dukes ofNewcastle.

Though Clumber House was demolished in1938, the parkland retains the grandeur of itspast including the longest double avenue of limetrees in Europe, the Gothic style chapel (oftenreferred to as a miniature cathedral), and thefour-acre walled garden with its 450ft longglasshouse.

Today the park offers a haven for wildlife and ishome to a wide variety of animals, birds, insectsand plant life. The Discovery Centre offersvisitors the chance to find out more, with achanging programme of activities and eventsthroughout the year.

The park also has a 100 acre serpentine lake,walking routes for all ages and abilities, and morethan 20 miles of cycle routes, with bike hireavailable for all the family.

Visitors can enjoy homemade seasonal mealsand snacks in the Clumber Café, made withproduce grown in the Walled Garden, or hot andcold snacks in Reading Room bookshop andcafé. For the full vintage tea party experience,afternoon tea is served in the Garden Tea Houseat weekends.

For admission prices, opening times and a fulllist of events, contact Clumber Park on 01909544917 or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumber-park

Events highlights for 2015World Forestry Day Sat 21 MarchEaster Egg Trails Fri 3 – Mon 6 AprilLambing time Sat 18 & Sun 19 April

Signpost - page 2 Clumber Park ©National Trust Images David Levenson

Calke AbbeyCalke Abbey tells the story of the dramaticdecline of a grand country-estate. With peelingpaint and overgrown courtyards, the house andstables are little restored and represent a time inthe 20th century when many country houses didnot survive.

Inside the house, visitors can discover tales of aneccentric family who amassed a vast collectionof hidden treasure, including the stunning statesilk bed, erected in 1985 after lying undiscoveredsince the 18th century.

Outdoors there are beautiful, yet faded, walledgardens and the orangery, auricula theatre andkitchen gardens to explore. The moreadventurous can discover the ancient and fragilehabitats of Calke Park and its National NatureReserve, a haven for wildlife. Alternatively, enjoya variety of walks in the 243 hectare (600 acre)parkland, from limeyards and wetlands to

woodland and ponds, or visit the red and fallowdeer in their restored deer enclosure.

Squirts Stables offers activities for youngerpeople between March and October – comealong and dress up as characters from centuriespast. Afterwards, choose from either the café orrestaurant for freshly prepared local andseasonal produce, including organically rearedmeat from the Calke Estate.

For admission prices, opening times and a fulllist of events, contact Calke Abbey on 01332863822 or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/calke

Events highlights for 2015Cadbury Easter Egg Trail Fri 3 – Sun 5 April11am – 3.30pmFine Food Fair Sun 26 April 11am – 4pmArchaeology Weekend Sat 30 & Sun 31 May11am – 4pm

Calke Abbey ©National Trust Images John Millar

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Eyam HallNearly 350 years ago the community village ofEyam made the ultimate sacrifice to prevent thespread of the deadly plague – their own lives.Eyam Hall, built in 1671, just six years after theplague, is a wonderfully unspoilt example of agritstone Jacobean manor house. Home of theWright family for eleven generations, insidevisitors can enjoy family portraits and furniturebelonging to each generation.

The Craft Centre, built in the Hall’s formerstable yard, offers a vibrant hub from which to

explore the wider villageof Eyam and itscaptivating stories. Tohelp you explore someof these stories we’vecreated a number ofwalks starting fromEyam Hall. Choosefrom The TwoSurvivors, The ThreeDecisions, The LoneMother or The Loversand explore Eyam and

the surrounding countryside.

The Craft Centre is also home to a collection oflocally run craft units, an independent café andNational Trust shop, providing the perfect placeto find gifts, refreshments and information whileenjoying your day in Eyam.

For admission prices, opening times and a fulllist of events, contact Eyam Hall on 01433639565 or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/eyam

Eyam Hall ©National Trust Images Laura Kennedy

Sudbury Hall ©National Trust Images Robert Morris

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Sudbury HallThere’s so much to see and do at Sudbury Halland the National Trust Museum of Childhood.Sudbury Hall, the country home of the LordsVernon, offers a delight of 17th-centurycraftsmanship, featuring exquisite plasterwork,wood carvings and classical story-based murals.Be amazed by the grandeur of the GreatStaircase, Long Gallery and the captivating storywhich the house tells, brought to life by ourknowledgeable volunteers and guides, or get aglimpse of life ‘below stairs’ in the kitchen andbasement.

The Museum of Childhood is a delight for allages with something for everyone. Watch yourchildren discovering something new, or relivenostalgic memories by exploring the childhoodsof times gone by, make stories, play with toysand share your childhood with others. You canbe a chimney sweep, a scullion or even join alesson in the Victorian Schoolroom.

For admission prices, opening times and a fulllist of events, contact Sudbury Hall on 01283585337 or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/sudbury-hall-and-museum-of-childhood

Hardwick HallThe Hardwick Estate is made up of stunninghouses and beautiful landscapes that have beencreated by a cast of thousands. Created by the formidable Bess of Hardwick,Hardwick Hall was designed by RobertSymthson in the late 16th century to deliberatelysymbolise Bess’ wealth and status and push theboundaries of architectural design. In thecenturies since then gardeners, builders,decorators, embroiderers and craftsmen of allkinds have contributed and made Hardwick theircreation.

In 2015, Hardwick Hall is celebrating the 400thanniversary of Lady Arbella Stuart,granddaughter to of Bess of Hardwick and

Hardwick Hall ©National Trust Images John Millar

niece to Mary, Queen of Scots. Discover howHardwick was at the heart of England’s social,political and religious turmoil, though the eyesof Lady Arbella, a royal granddaughter.Educated and raised as a princess, her desperateattempts at freedom ended with herimprisonment at the Tower of London.

Outside, Hardwick offers visitors a year-roundexperience, from colourful herbaceous bordersand prize-winning vegetables to picturesqueparkland walks. Visitors can find hot meals,seasonal specials and homemade cakes served inthe Great Barn restaurant, or browse the Stablesshop for gifts, souvenirs and local produce.

For admission prices, opening times and a fulllist of events, contact Hardwick Hall on 01246850430 or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/hardwick

Kedleston Hall

Kedleston Hall, designed by the famousarchitect Robert Adam, was built for SirNathaniel Curzon in 1765 as a house to rivalChatsworth.

Intended as 'a temple of the arts' and as thelocation for grand entertainment, the main

house was never meant to be family home;instead it as merely a canvas on which toshowcase the finest collection of paintings,sculpture and furniture belonging to the Curzonfamily.

Inside the Hall, the fabulous state floor remainsmuch as it was when Adam designed it, retainingits original collections of paintings, sculptureand furnishings. There’s also the EasternMuseum, created in the early 20th century byLord Curzon to display object collected duringhis travels in Asia while Viceroy of India.

Outside, the beautiful naturalistic parklandblends seamlessly into the surroundingcountryside. The 332 hectares (820 acres) areperfect for walks, picnics and spotting wildlife, aswell as being home to more than 100 ancienttrees.

Visitors can choose from a variety of delicioustreats and homemade meals in the GreatKitchen restaurant, or pick a gift from theNational Trust shop.

For admission prices, opening times and a fulllist of events, contact Kedleston Hall on 01332842191 or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/kedleston

County Signpost

Kedleston ©National Trust Images Arnhel de SerraSignpost - page 6


National Trust in Staffordshire

National Trust places in Staffordshire take youright back to the Battle of Worcester in the1650s and on a trip around the world; this trulyis a county worth exploring. You can feel athome in Staffordshire, connect with history andnature, stretch your legs on Downs Banks orstretch over the border to Wightwick Manorwhere industry meets art.

For even more great value days out, ask thereception teams about annual National Trustmembership which gives free entry and parkingat more than 300 historic houses and gardens.

Biddulph Grange Garden

This high grade 1 Victorian garden is a productof one man’s vision to present his collection ofplants from around the world. The garden isdesigned as a series of rooms each with its ownmicro climate and separated from the other bytunnels, and maze like hedges and steps.The garden is quirky and humorous; visitors canfeel the cool dampness of the Himalayan glen,the sun trap of the Italian garden and the darkdelicate atmosphere of the stumpery anddiscover the curious creatures of the stone apeof Thoth or mysterious frog.

The garden also features rhododendroncollections, summer bedding displays, a stunningdahlia walk in late summer and Britain’s oldestsurviving golden larch, brought from China inthe 1850s by the great plant hunter RobertFortune.

Families can enjoy I-spy activities around thegarden, feed the fish in the lake (March –October), play hide and seek through the tunnelsand find the dragons in the Chinese garden.

Visitors can then take a welcome break in thetea-room, browse the National Trust gift shopor pick up a bargain or two in the plant centre.

Detailed information about the many plants inthe garden is available through the NationalTrust Gardens Iphone App, where you candownload specific maps and planting guides forBiddulph Grange. The Gardens App is availablethrough the App Store.

For admission prices, opening times and a fulllist of events please call 01782 517999 or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/biddulph-grange-garden

Biddulph Grange, © National Trust Images / Andrew Butler

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Downs Bank, near Stone

A little wilderness of woodlands and heath inthe heart of the Midlands.

Downs Bank Brook is a beautiful babblingstream that runs the length of Downs Bank.Keep your eyes open and you may see thefantastic blue flash of a kingfisher.

There are far-reaching views from the highestpoint on the Downs, with a rock pillar showingthe landmarks that can be seen on a clear day.The Long Mynd (National Trust), Mow CopCastle (National Trust,) the Wrekin (a prominenthill formed from an extinct volcano) and theClee Hills are just some of the landmarks to lookout for.

From spring to autumn much of Downs Bank isgrazed by a small herd of friendly cattle. They'rehelping us to restore the heath and recreate thetraditional ways of farming that have shaped thislandscape over hundreds of years.

Find out more about Downs Bank by calling01889 882825 or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/downs-bank

Moseley Old Hall, nearWolverhampton

Built in 1600, Moseley Old Hall’s unassumingexterior conceals an amazing tale and more.

In September 1651, while fleeing for his lifefollowing defeat at the Battle of Worcester, thefuture King Charles II hid from Cromwell’stroops in an oak tree on the estate before he wasbrought to hide in Moseley Old Hall.

Visitors can still see the bed the King slept inand the priest hole he hid in as well as hearingfascinating stories about what life was like in the17th century.

Outside, why not visit the striking knot garden,or relax in the orchard, sheltered by the gardenwalls, while enjoying a light lunch or cream tea.You could put your best foot forward in KingsWood Walk, where you’ll find our oak tree hide;bring your own little soldiers along to play hideand seek, just like King Charles II did with theparliamentary soldiers.

Treat yourself in the popular tea-room offeringlight lunches, homemade cakes and biscuits, thenbrowse the shop and plant sales, or find abargain in the second-hand book store.We've also got lots of events, activities anddemonstrations throughout the year, for all thefamily.

For admission prices, opening times and a fulllist of events please call 01902 782808 or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/moseley-old-hall

Event Highlights for 2015Bake and Make – the art of bread and butterMon 9 March 2015, Mon 20 April 2015 & Mon11 May 2015 10am – 1pmIf you go down to the woods… Fun woodlandactivities for the whole family Sat 21 & Sun 22 March 2015, Sat 18 & Sun 19

Downs Bank, © National Trust Images / Rod Whiteman

Moseley Old Hall, © National Trust Images / Phil Evans

County Signpost

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April 2015, Sat 16 & Sun 17 May 2015 11.30am– 3.30pmCadbury Easter Egg trail Sat 4 – Mon 6 April2015 11am – 4pmTop 5 50 things Sat 23 – Wed 27 May 201511.30am – 3.30pm17th Century Christmas: Sun 29 November –Thurs 24 December 2015, join in with helpingus make decorations, food and even toast breadover the fire.

Wightwick Manor & Gardens,Wolverhampton.

In 1937, Geoffrey Mander MP did somethingremarkable, he persuaded the National Trust toaccept a house that was just 50 years old.

The local paint manufacturer and Liberal MPhad been left the timber-framed WightwickManor by his father Theodore. Takinginspiration from a lecture on ‘the HouseBeautiful’ by Oscar Wilde, Theodore and hiswife Flora decorated the house with designs byWilliam Morris and his contemporaries in theArts and Crafts movement.

Having given the house to the Trust, Geoffreyand his second wife Rosalie became its live-incurators, opening the house up to the public andadding to the contents. In particular theygathered a remarkable collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings by Rossetti, Burne-Jones

and their followers.

With its timber beams and barley-twistchimneys, gardens of wide lawns yew hedgesand roses, Wightwick Manor is an idyllic timecapsule of Victorian nostalgia for MedievalEngland.

New for 2015 is an exhibition of William DeMorgan ceramics, on temporary loan toWightwick following the closure of the DeMorgan Foundation’s permanent exhibitionspace. The works will be on display in the GreatParlour until June 2015.

So take a step back in time and visit the ever-changing family home that’s also an unlikely artgallery. Visit the specialist shop selling WilliamMorris inspired gifts, or enjoy locally grownproduce in the Mander’s tea-room. WilliamMorris gifts are also available online.

For admission prices, opening times and a fulllist of events please call 01902 761400 or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/wightwick-manor

Event Highlights for 2015Afternoon Tea for Mothering Sunday Sun 15March 2015 11am – 5pmCadbury Easter Egg trails Fri 3 – Mon 6 April2015 11am – 4pmCraft activities for families in the school holidaysand outdoor theatre in the summer.

Wightwicvk Manor, © National Trust Images / Chris Lacey

Bolsover Castle

Exquisite Bolsover is the perfect place toimagine the golden age of chivalry. Set on ahilltop, with breathtaking views of the Vale ofScarsdale, the castle was built as a fashionableretreat for the Cavendish family to entertaininfluential guests. Its reputation for revelry liveson as we now entertain you and your family!

From balletic horse displays to the clashing of48 armoured knights, Bolsover Castle’s eventsprogramme has something for everyone.If you prefer to wander quietly at yourown pace, our brand new multimediaguide will serve up a veritable feast ofinformation as you discover beautiful walland ceiling art in the labyrinth of the LittleCastle rooms.

In 2014 a £1.3million project sawrefurbished rooms in the Little Castle, a

new exhibition in the Riding House, a roomdedicated to theatrics for your little ones and anoutdoor play area.Visitors can now walk on the newly recreatedWall Walk and admire the newly planted VenusGarden in all its glory.Bolsover castle is now a full day out inDerbyshire for you and your family.

Blockbusting events

Spring into action with these amazingevents!• Cavalier Horsemanship horse displays duringweekends from April to September (exceptsome event weekends)• St George’s Day (25-26 Apr)• Knights Tournament (3-4 May)• Siege! (24 - 25 May)• Grand Medieval Joust (30-31 Aug)• Creepy Castle at Night (31 Oct - 1 Nov)

Visit the website or call for more details of ourlovely castle and exciting events:www.english-heritage.org.uk/Bolsover01246 822844

ENGLISH HERITAGE

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PeverilCastle

Explore the imposing ruins of Peveril Castle,from it’s hill top position enjoy spectacular viewsof the pretty medieval town of Castleton in theheart of Derbyshire’s Peak District. Mentionedin the Domesday survey, Peveril Castle is one ofEngland’s earliest Norman fortresses and thekeep was built by Henry II in 1176.

S33 8WQhttp://www.english-heritage.org.uk/peveril

Hardwick Old HallDiscover the stately ruins of one of the homesof Bess of Hardwick, one of the richest andmost remarkable women of ElizabethanEngland. Ascend through four floors, viewingthe surviving decorative plasterwork, to enjoyspectacular views over the New Hall and theDerbyshire Countryside

S44 5QJwww.english-heritage.org.uk/hardwickoldhall


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DERBY CATHEDRAL

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County Signpost

Derby Cathedral stands proudly at the top endof the Cathedral quarter in a constantly evolvinglandscape with the aim of reaching out to thepeople of Derby and its surrounding areas. TheCathedral overlooks a continually developingriverside, which provides an escape from theregular hustle and bustle of city life. Thoughsaying this, life in the cathedral is rarely at astandstill, with the daily rhythm of prayer andservices, the cathedral also offers one of the bestvenues for civic and historical occasionsalongside being the premiere venue for classicaland sacred music concerts in the city. Yet in thisever changing area, the cathedral itself is havinga face lift this year, with new wiring, lights,heating and redecoration of the inside planned.Alongside a new Chapter Steward (chiefadministrator), Rachel Morris and theappointment of a new Director of Music, HughMorris, this year is ringing in the changes as wellas the new year for the Cathedral.

The preparations of Lent and thecelebrations of Easter at the heartof the Cathedral’s year with theservices of Holy Week taking usthrough the final week of Jesus’ life.The Cathedral follows this storywith a wide array of services fromthe parades and celebrations on aecumenical scale of Palm Sundaywith a procession into the cathedralin contrast to the reverence andstillness of the Good Fridayreflections, opening out to thefanfares of Easter Day.

Two days after Easter Day, the cathedral is goingover to limited access whilst the renovations aretaking place. Daily services are continuing indifferent locations nearby, building on links with

the Roman Catholic Church of St. Mary’s andthe Bridge Chapel as well as an outside accessprayer station. The Cathedral will be open forvisiting all day Saturday and Sunday after theSunday morning service, a chance to see theprogress of the works alongside continuing thetradition of worship on this historic site. Duringsome of these weekends, special events aretaking place including the Derby Arts Festival inearly May, the celebration service of one ofDerbyshire’s most famous women, FlorenceNightingale is on 16th May and thecommemorations of the Padley Martyrs takingplace at the Bridge Chapel on the 24th July andmany more.

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As you walk through the inviting west end glassdoors, you are drawn into a wide open andbright space of this Enlightenment designedCathedral. You are welcome to explore thestunning architecture and fascinating history notonly of the building, but also of the people whohelped shape Derbyshire and made it theirhome. Admission is free with Cathedral staffand volunteers on hand to offer a warmwelcome and to offer any information that maybe required. The Cathedral has a self guided touravailable in a number of languages or it can be

arranged for a more specialised tour for groupsfocusing on different aspects of the buildingwith one of our experienced tour guides. Thesecan be booked through the visitor’s officer viathe cathedral office for a small donation. Afteryour visit, why not take a break at the CathedralCafé across the road, using locally sourcedproduce and home made and made to orderfood. Please feel free to explore the bookshelvesof our bookshop, stocking a wide variety ofresources for churches and the individual reader.Take a trip down stairs to explore the treasury,holding the treasurers of the cathedral and thesurrounding churches. Next to the treasury, is anexhibition space exhibiting the artwork andcreations of local artists.

As a Cathedral, we hold special open day toursincluding tower tours, which enable you to climbthe 64 metre high tower, with the chance to seethe four counties surrounding Derby. Thesedates are published on our website and in localpress. The fourteenth century Bridge Chapel ofSt. Mary on the Bridge is also opened onrequest, on open days and whilst the buildingwork is going on at the cathedral, with admission

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being free of charge too. We have guides onhand to help you explore this fascinating historicplace of worship and to learn about is intriguingstories.

The Cathedral is always available as a place toexplore and a peaceful place to stop, light acandle and prayer.

For more details on the progress our buildingworks, our services, concerts and much morethat goes on in the building, please visit ourwebsite, www.derbycathedral.org or email thecathedral offices at [email protected] call the office on 01332 341201.

Images © Derby Cathedral Dean andChapter and Sarah J Jamieson

The Bridge Chapel

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Lea GardensWhere Rainbows Grow !

The nursery specialises in rhododendrons, azaleas and kalmias.

Tea Garden Café

Matlock DE4 5GHTel 01629 534380

www.leagarden.co.uk

BARROW HILL ROUNDHOUSERAILWAY CENTRE

The home of Britain’s last survivingoperational Roundhouse and theatmospheric venue for severalexciting events every year.

Telephone 01246 472450Website: www.barrowhill.org Follow Barrow Hill Roundhouse on Facebook and Twitter

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visit www.discoverbolsover.co.uk

County Signpost

MOORCROFT HERITAGEVISITOR CENTRE

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Discover what is said to be thefinest art pottery in the worldtoday…

Since 1897, each piece of Moorcroft art potteryhas been made entirely by hand from start tofinish in the Staffordshire Potteries with designsthat push forward the boundaries of ceramic art.

William Moorcroft, who was later to found thecompany that would hold his name withfinancial backing from the famous Liberty ofLondon, was an artist and ceramic chemist whodeveloped a new range of decorative potteryusing techniques of slip-trailing and underglazecolour, which were to become his hallmarks. Hestarted his own factory in 1913, on the site of aformer tile and brick company in Cobridge,where Moorcroft remains to this day. Within adecade he would be Potters to Her Majesty TheQueen. Those who worked at Moorcroft overdecades gone by would stand in awe at the skillsof the designers, tubeliners and colourists oftoday. Their names are synonymous with superbquality without parallel, in the full 118 years of

Moorcroft history. This exciting art potteryhistory can be view in the Moorcroft Museum atthe Moorcroft Heritage Visitor Centre.

A guided tour will take visitors into the heart ofthe Moorcroft Factory. Based at the HeritageVisitor Centre our expert guides accompany thevisitor around the original factory.Comprehensive information in all aspects of thehand-made processes of mould making, slipcasting, hand turning, tube lining, hand painting,kiln firing and finally glazing. The techniquesused in Moorcroft pottery are virtually the sametoday, as they were a hundred years ago. Visitorsenter a time warp from which they can look intothe virtual soul of what must be the world’s bestloved art pottery. 2015, is already predicted as agood vintage for Moorcroft enthusiasts withdesigns like Rennie Rose from Moorcroft’ssenior designer, Rachel Bishop, receivingpublicity in home and interior magazines.

No booking is required to view the exhibitionswithin the Moorcroft Heritage Visitor CentreMuseum with pieces of art pottery stillshowcased in original Liberty cabinets.

Rennie Rose from Moorcroft’s, Rachel Bishop


Hayley Moore demonstrates the difficult skills of hand-painting ceramic art.

FACTORY TOURS

A maximum of 10 people can be taken on afactory tour at one time. However, large groupbookings can be arranged for up to 20 people.Address: Sandbach Road, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England, ST6 2DQ

Duration: Factory tours last approx 1 hour. Pre-booking is essential, please call in advance tobook 01782 820515

There is a vending machine available onsite forhot drinks.

Tour Times

Mon 11:00 14:00 | Wed - Thu 11:00 14:00 | Fri11:00

Opening times may vary on Bank Holidays,please ring to confirm times.

Prices : Adults £7.50, Children (age 11-16)£5.00, OAP £6.50, and a Group booking £6.50pp. Please make your booking at least 2 weeks inadvance. Tours are subject to maximumnumbers so you will need to contact theMoorcroft Heritage Visitor Centre at the earliestopportunity to avoid disappointment.

DURING 2015, ALL TOUR ATTENDEESwill receive a £20 voucher to redeem at theMoorcroft Heritage Visitor Centre (vouchersubject to conditions) as well as a £10 voucherfor the Moorcroft Factory Shop.

www.moorcroft.com

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Antiques expert and Moorcroft Director, Eric Knowles,featured in the Moorcroft Museum.

This year sees De Bradelei’s 21st anniversary asDerbyshire’s must visit destination for savvyshoppers looking for great savings on big namebrands without compromising quality or style.

A beautifully restored 18th Century Hosiery Millis now home to a huge range of top qualityclothing brands for all the family along withsubstantial gift & home departments and coffeeshop. It is a unique shopping venue, wherecustomers can browse in peace, miles from thehustle and bustle of the high street.

Spread across 2 floors surrounding a traditionalcourtyard you’ll find boutique brands such asJoules, Seasalt & Esprit alongside high streetfavourites Jacques Vert, Alexon, Kaliko, Eastex,Windsmoor & Planet with discounts of up to70% OFF RRP all year round ensuring greatsavings with every visit. Klass Collection,Roman Originals, Jack Murphy, Tigi wear &Laura Ashley join many other labels to offer

everything from great work wear, versatile layersfor country walks or party and occasional wear.Compliment your new outfit with greataccessories including bags, jewellery, & scarvessituated throughout the store.

Joining these brands along with many others isPavers Shoes. Well known across the country foroffering footwear for every occasion ensuringyou look good for less. Whether you’re lookingfor Walking boots, Party shoes or anything inbetween you can save £s with up to 30% OffRRP.

The stores extensive menswear department,houses a large range of styles and offers suitablefor all ages and budgets. Home to classic casualsby Wolsey, Morley, Harvey Parker & Esprit or ifyou’re in the market for a more formal affair awealth of choice is available from BrookTaverner, Peter England, Viyella & many more.

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DE BRADELEI STORES– BELPER

After giving yourself a new look you can turnattention to your home with a wide choice ofcolours & styles from Rectella bedlinen & softfurnishings along with Wood’s gifts &decorations to compliment your theme. You’llalso find over 40 Fragrances of Yankee Candleproviding soothing scents to spread throughoutyour home with 25% OFF our featuredFragrances of the Month.

Throughout the year the Mill’s Courtyard hostsvarious events & additional attractions such asArt Exhibitions, Musical Acts & Performances,Afternoon teas along with a Regular ArtisanMarket on the last Friday & Saturday of themonth where a host of locally made gifts &produce are on offer direct from DerbyshireArtisans.

Taking its name from the local hills viewablefrom the store, De Bradelei’s “Chevin” CoffeeShop provides a peaceful retreat away from allthe bargain hunting with some delicious homecooked food.

Prepared & cooked on the premises by our staffwho really care about quality and service, theyoffer daily specials, soups, salads, quiches andpastas plus great scones and cakes that enticecustomers back again and again.

Call 01773 882442www.debradelei.com

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Joules clothing Alexon clothing

Regatta clothing

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One of the most visitedCollector's Centres in theCountry

The Heanor Antiques Centre is the largestantiques centre in the county. The centre hasbeen a family run business since the building wasacquired and renovated in 1998. It started withjust 35 dealers present, displaying theircollections over approximately 8000 square feet,and has now grown to cover about 250 dealersand 15 000 square feet of display space.

The Centre is fully let and you will find anAladdin’s Cave spread over four floors, with agreat range of goods on offer in the displaycases, (from books at 50p, toys, postcards,stamps, fine China, silverware, glass andmemorabilia, to Grandfather Clocks at £4,000).

HEANOR ANTIQUES& COLLECTOR CENTRE

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The range of antiques and collectibles on displayreflects the origins of the dealers - they comefrom all over the UK, Ireland and even as farafield as Japan. Heanor is always attracting newdealers with new stock, special open nights andevents - including the unique Ghost Tour.

There is also a Craft Centre catering for aroundfifteen dealers offering local handmade crafts.

The Craft Centre and Art Gallery benefit from anewly extended Stylish Cafe. The Cafe at HeanorAntiques and Craft centre started as a smallgarage conversion next to the car park: It is nowa 80 seat Modernistic designed cafe on the thirdfloor with outside seating and views across D. H.Lawrence’s birth place. Openly daily, with alarge selection of food.

OPENING TIMES: 10:30am to 4:30pm everyday of the week and year (except Christmas dayand Boxing day)

Do check the youtube video on the antiquescentre by Scarlet Richards:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z89MCYfv_BgTelephone. 01773 531181www.heanorantiquescentre.co.uk

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TREAK CLIFF CAVERNHOME OF BLUE JOHN STONE

Cavern revealsits secrets after 70 years

A ‘lost’ vein of rare Blue John stone has beenrediscovered in a Peak District cavern afternearly 70 years. It was the legacy of miner JohnRoyse who back in 1945 told 19 year old PeterHarrison about an amazing deposit of Blue Johnstone he had found in Treak Cliff Cavern. Peterpromised to return to the cavern the next day,but sadly John Royse was taken ill and diedbefore he could show Peter the exact location ofhis find.

For nearly 70 years, Peter Harrison and hisfamily have toiled away in the Treak Cliff Cav ernBlue John stone mine in search of the lost vein.They have found other lesser deposits along theway but John Royse’s legendary deposit haseluded them, until now.

Says Peter Harrison, “I was just a young lad of 19when my family took over the running of Treak CliffCavern back in 1945. The old miner John Royse was notin the best of health and was retiring. He told me of thisfantastic deposit of Blue John he had found and asked meto help him get it out. We planned to return to the cavernthe next day but sadly John Royse was taken ill and died.Over the years I have spent countless hours searching forthat deposit.”

It has fallen to Peter Harrison’s grandson JohnTurner to uncover the lost treasure.

Says John Turner (21), “I am learning the art of BlueJohn mining from Gary Ridley the mine manager whohas been mining here for over 15 years. Gary has beenteaching me what to look for and the tell-tale crystalstructures in the rock that could mean a vein of BlueJohn lies beneath. It was while we were stood talking at

the bottom of the ladder that leads to the upper galleriesthat I noticed something unusual on the floor. After anhour of digging through muddy deposits I was amazed tocome across an old piece of carpet supported by somewooden batons. I couldn’t believe my eyes when we pulledaway the old carpet and there was this most amazingdeposit of Blue John stone. It was right under the ladderthat my grandfather put in decades ago. He must havewalked over John Royse’s old find thousands of times overthe years.” Says Peter Harrison “When my grandson phoned totell me he had found John Royse’s old deposit, I couldn’tbelieve it. After all these years it was right under my feet!I’m 87 now and retired years ago, but when I heard thenews I just had to put on my old mining overalls andmake the trip back into the cavern to see the deposit formyself.”

Vicky Turner, Peter’s daughter and John’smother now manages Treak Cliff Cavern, shesays, “I grew up with stories of John Royse’s lost deposit.To be honest I thought it might have been a bit of an oldminer’s tale. If my father hadn’t found it after all theseyears maybe it didn’t exist. It is a fantastic discovery.John is learning the trade and has a great eye for it, itmust be in his blood.”

Open every day for cavern tours. For detailsplease contact any of the following:

T: 01433 620571E: [email protected]: www.bluejohnstone.com

HEANOR ANTIQUES CENTRE

“a t reasure trove of antiques over 4 f loors , rang ing f romsmal l pi ec es o f jewel l ery to large i t ems of furni ture . Ant iques

suppl i ed by our 250 ind iv idual t raders .”

D.H. Lawrence coffee shop serving lights meals daily.

1-3 Ilkeston Road, Heanor DE75 7AGTelephone 01773 531181

www.heanorantiquescentre.co.uk e-mail [email protected]

The antiques centre was establishedin 1996 and is open 7 days a week.Monday to Saturday 10 am untill 4.30pm and Sundays 11 am to 4.30pm.

The centre is on the edge of the beautifulpeak district and only 5 minutes fromjunction 28 of the M1 motorway.

Alfreton Antiques Centre houses more than35 dealers on two floors selling qualityantiques, collectables, furniture, lighting,vintage clothing, records, sportingmemorabilia, silver, militaria and much more.there is something for every pocket !

11 King Street, Alfreton Derbyshire DE55 7AFwww.alfretonantiquescentre.com01773 [email protected]

ALFRETON ANTIQUES

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Keeping a 200 year old windmill in full workingorder demands a lot of effort, particularly whenit has become a major tourist attraction in theAmber Valley area, and even more so when it isthe only complete working windmill inDerbyshire.

Heage Windmill is run by a charitable trust butthe trust depends on a small army of volunteersto keep her operating. Over the 14 years sincethe mill was restored, time has taken its toll onthe original team and it’s in urgent need of somenew recruits. That includes guides, shopworkers and, given time and training, millers.The mill opens to the public every weekend, andBank Holidays, from April to the end of

October, though even when the mill is closed,there is always work to done to the mill and thesurrounds.

As founder Trustee Alan Gifford explains: ‘Fulltraining is given so you don’t need to be an expert onwindmills. However, when you join us, you will soon learna lot about them! It’s fascinating to be directly involvedin keeping ‘the old lady’, as we call her, in trim workingorder and, at the same time, making her open to ourmany visitors. It’s very rewarding work.’

If you are interested in being a volunteer – andit’s open to people of all ages - contact LynnAllen on 01773 715 177 or via email:[email protected]

HEAGE WINDMILL

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Miller, Dave Hunter

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The home of Britain’s last surviving operationalRoundhouse and the atmospheric venue forseveral exciting events every year.

The site, which is home to over sixty steam,diesel and electric locomotives as well asnumerous wagons and coaches, is open everyweekend (except Christmas and New Year) withentry by donation. There is a charge for specialevents.

Throughout each year the galas feature workingsteam and diesel locomotives, which are oftenjoined by a variety of visiting steam and moderndiesel locomotives off the main line.

On special event days train rides are available,pulled by either a steam or diesel locomotivefrom ‘Roundhouse Halt’, a purpose-builtplatform. Trains travel around the depot and upthe Springwell branch. Trade stands, cateringand a free bus service from Chesterfield railwaystation all go together to create a great day out.

Events for 2015

18th & 19th April "Diesel Gala - Barrow HillRarities"Plenty to see and do throughout the weekend :

BARROW HILL ROUNDHOUSERAILWAY CENTRE

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train rides, visiting locomotives, turntable demo,cab visits, trade stands, real ale bar and goodfood !

14th - 16th May "Rail Ale"In its 14th year, bigger than ever, the mostatmospheric beer festival of the year, with over200 different real ales, as well as an impressiverange of ciders, perries, bottled beers and fruitwines. Not forgetting the steam train rides andlive music! Tickets go on sale on 1st March.

Telephone 01246 472450Website: www.barrowhill.org Follow Barrow Hill Roundhouse on Facebook and Twitter

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CRICH TRAMWAY VILLAGE

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Crich Tramway Village is no ordinary day out.The village setting of lovingly restored buildingsis not only the perfect home for the nationscollection of vintage trams but gives visitors theopportunity to experience the nostalgia of atime now past.

Don’t be fooled however by the relaxed andfriendly atmosphere as there’s a lot to see and do.Trams run to and fro all day long carryingvisitors down the cobbled street and out into thesurrounding countryside to make the most ofthe breathtaking views across the DerwentValley.

Visitors are welcome to ride the trams as oftenas they wish though it’s hard not to be distractedby all the other activities going on.

The Workshop Gallery gives you theopportunity to watch engineers close up as theygo about servicing working vehicles and carryingout restoration work on needy trams. Visit thedepots and you will be able to see over fiftyvintage trams from all different eras, towns andcountries, you may even spot one from your ownhome town!

Across the yard you will find the exhibition hallwhich tells the story of the tram from its horsedrawn origins to the near silent electric vehiclesworking today. In the heart of the Village isGeorge Stephen Discovery Centre which looksat social history and the need to developtramways in towns and cities across the UK.

The buildings that make up the village havecome from all parts of the country, manydemolished brick by brick before beingtransported to Crich and lovingly rebuilt andrestored. Here within the heart of the village youwill find our gift shops and should you be inneed of refreshment there are also the VillageTearooms and Red Lion Pub which welcomes allmembers of the family whatever their age.

Children can let off steam in the adventureplayground with its Burma bridge, tram tracks,swinging steps, slide and roundabout while

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younger ones can make the most of the newindoor ball pool and tram themed soft play area;to keep their brains in shape there is also a quiztrail to follow. Over the School Holidays we havean action packed calendar of craft activities andthemed week – suitable for all ages!

Thanks to funding by the Countryside Agencythe Woodland Walk allows visitors to stretchtheir legs on a trail that winds its way throughnative woodland now dotted with sculptures bylocal artists. You may just catch a glimpse of thestunning views before stumbling across aviewing platform or the picnic area with itspanoramic vista across the Derbyshirecountryside. The walk is also home to a leaf trailwhere children can take brass rubbings, a giantwooden ant to climb on and a stone labyrinth toescape to.

Crich really does offer something for everyonewhenever you visit but some days there is evenmore going on. We have a rich and variedcalendar of events that runs throughout the yearincluding classic car days, a nostalgia day, ourfamous 1940’s weekend reliving the war era andthe Edwardian Weekend and Classic TransportGathering.

New for 2015

This year the Tramway Village will be shining aspotlight on how our tramways continued tooperate during the First World War.

The outbreak of the War had a significantimpact on the country’s tramway operations, andthe new temporary exhibition, TramwayTommies and Clippie Girls, will look at how therecruitment of men for the army left manytramways short of staff for the tramcars.

We will look at how, for the first time, womentook on active roles in an industry that hadpreviously been predominantly male-orientated,in order to keep the country’s trams on track and

moving. We will also be transforming one of ourtramcars into an operational recruitment tram,as we explore how tramways helped to promoteenlistment in the army during the First WorldWar. Visitors will have a chance to ride on thisspecially decorated tramcar.

The recruitment car will run every* Tuesday,Thursday and Saturday from 18th April until29th September excluding special event days.

*The recruitment car will run subject toavailability and weather

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Don’t forget, Crich Tramway Village still offers12 months free entry with all full price tickets sothat there is even more reason to make a returnto Crich.

Location & Opening TimesCrich Tramway Village is located in the heart ofDerbyshire, 6 miles from Matlock and 8 milesfrom M1 junction 28, follow the brown signs for“Tramway Museum”.

The Village is open daily from April untilOctober. Please phone for details of winteropening. For further information about openingtimes, admission prices and details of specialevents:

Tel:01773 854321, email:[email protected], or visitwww.tramway.co.uk

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MATLOCK FARM PARKMatlock Farm Park is the ideal place to visit toenjoy the fresh air of the countryside combinedwith fun, interactive experiences with a widerange of friendly animals.

From sheep, goats, pigs, chickens and donkeys,to the more unusual meerkats, wallabies, alpacaand rhea, there are lots of animals to see andfeed, as well as smaller, cuddly animals to pet inthe barn. With Spring being the season whichbrings most of the new arrivals, there is theopportunity to get up close with chicks, goatkids and baby bunnies. Bottle feeding of lambsis a favourite with the children.

Learn more about meerkats through daily talksand have a free bet on a ferret race. Short ponyrides are available most days too. This Spring willsee the new ‘Wallaby Encounter’ and a return ofthe crowd-pleasing sheep races.

There is a variety of play equipment, go-karts, apopular café and a shop to browse. A ridingschool, offering riding for all abilities, is alsolocated at the farm park (pre-booking essential).

Telephone 01246 590200www.matlockfarmpark.co.uk

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STEP BACK IN TIME ATBELPER MILL

Take a trip back in time to learn all about thevital role that Belper played in the industrialrevolution that changed the world as we know it.

There’s centuries of fascinating heritage to beuncovered in the historic mill town of Belperwhich sits at the heart of the 15 mile longDerwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.

The UNESCO heritage site encompasses astring of impressive mills stretching along theriver valley from Matlock Bath to Derby.

Start your exploration of Belper by visitingStrutt’s North Mill – the town’s oldest survivingmill - which houses an award-winningindependent museum and visitor informationcentre.

Built in 1804, North Mill is one of the world’sfirst ‘fireproof ’ iron framed buildings. Thisground-breaking way of building heralded oneof the first major steps towards the modern-dayskyscraper.

It’s not just all about the past however. The millis developing an exciting events programme toencourage people of all ages to come and enjoythe town’s historic attraction.

For more details on having a great day out inBelper and the Derwent Valley ring the mill on01773 880474 or 0845 5214347.Alternatively visitwww.belpernorthmill.org.ukwww.derwentvalleymills.org

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11am to 4pm

EREWASH MUSEUMMulti-award winning Erewash Museum ishoused in historic Dalby House in the town ofIlkeston in Derbyshire.

The Museum currently houses a number ofpermanent exhibitions telling the history ofvarious aspects of the history of the boroughincluding the internationally known StantonIronworks company, and the local coal industryupon which much of the local community oncedepended. There is also a temporary exhibitiongallery known as The Lally Gallery which isutilised for both museum exhibitions, touringexhibitions and displaying local artists’ work.

www.erewashmuseum.co.ukTelephone - 0115 907 1141

Entry free- no charge to visit the museum

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SAMUEL JOHNSON BIRTHPLACEMUSEUM, LICHFIELD

The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum standson the Market Square in the heart of thehistorical Cathedral city of Lichfield. A Grade Ilisted townhouse built in 1707, the beautifulbuilding offers an insight into the life of an 18thcentury bookseller and his very famous son. Bestknown as the author of A Dictionary of theEnglish Language in 1755, Samuel Johnson wasalso a playwright, poet, journalist and editor, andis highly regarded as one of the 18th century’smost important men of letters. Johnson spentthe first 27 years of his life in the house,frequently returning until shortly before hisdeath in 1784.

Visitors can explore five floors of displaysincluding period room settings, an introductoryfilm, interactive exhibits and hands-on fun forfamilies. A wide range of events and activitiesare held at Johnson’s Birthplace, from children’sactivities to performances and historyworkshops. Highlights to look out in 2015include celebrations of the 250th anniversary ofthe publication of Johnson’s edition ofShakespeare’s work and the 260th anniversary ofthe Dictionary, with related events and displaysthroughout the year. In the summer months,visitors can enjoy an exhibition of work by localamateur artists inspired by the city and theBirthplace collections. The whole of Lichfieldjoins together in the autumn to celebrateJohnson’s birthday in September for a weekendcelebration of the city’s heritage.

Book-lovers can also enjoy a new look in theMuseum’s historic bookshop, in the same roomfrom which the Johnson family booksellingbusiness ran over 300 years ago.

Admission is free of charge, but donations arewelcome.

Open DailyApril – September 10.30am -4.30pmOctober – March 11.00am – 3.30pm

Visit: Breadmarket Street, Lichfield,Staffordshire, WS13 6LGClick: www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.ukCall: 01543 264 972Write: [email protected] : @SamuelJohnsonBM

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Kelham Island MuseumLocated in one of the city’s oldest industrialdistricts, Kelham Island Museum stands on aman-made island over 900 years old. Ourinteractive galleries tell the story of light tradesand skilled workmanship to mass production.Learn what it was like to live and work inSheffield during the Industrial Revolution andfollow the sights and sounds of progressthrough the Victorian era and two world wars todiscover how steel making forged the city oftoday and its impact on the modern world!

Don’t miss ‘The Millowners Arms’, theexhibition complete with traditional bar, whichcelebrates Sheffield’s brewing heritage. Be sureto catch the mighty River Don Engine in steam– the most powerful working steam engineremaining in Europe, as well as thereconstructed ‘Little Mesters’ street with residentworkshops.

The special exhibition 'War Work' tells the storyof the impact of war upon Sheffield'scompanies, manufacturing and workers.‘Sheffield Remembers’ is a new display of FirstWorld War memorials, honouring the men fromthe industrial companies of Sheffield, whoserved and lost their lives during the 1914 – 1918conflict. Major events during 2015 include the1940s Weekend and Vintage Fayre – 18th / 19thJuly, and the Victorian Christmas Market – 5th /6th December.

SHEFFIELD INDUSTRIALMUSUEMS

Kelham Island Museum - Little Mester

3 Inspiring Places, 1 Steel StorySheffield Industrial Museums are the showcase of Sheffield’s industrial story from earlyindustrialisation to modern times where ‘Made In Sheffield’ remains a mark of craftsmanship andquality known worldwide. Enjoy a great family day out full of nostalgia and innovation!

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Kelham Island Museum - Little Mester

Abbeydale Industrial HamletCatch a unique glimpse of life at home and atwork at a scythe and steelworks dating back tothe 18th century. Abbeydale Works was once aproducer of agricultural tools and the largestwater-powered industrial site on the River Sheaf.It is now a group of Grade I and II* listedbuildings and a Scheduled Ancient Monument.See workers houses, waterwheels, workshops, tilthammers, a grinding hull and the last completesurviving crucible steel furnace in the UK!

The Heritage Lottery Fund project to revitalisethe Hamlet is well under way, and visitors canenjoy the new ‘All About Abbeydale’ gallery,cafe, shop and learning centre. Restoration workand repairs to machinery and the waterwheels isongoing, and visitors will be able to see theprogress and talk to the Hamlet team at specialevents throughout the year. Now available is thenew Hamlet visitors app, which can be eitherdownloaded on your own mobile device or usedon one of our borrowable ipads.

Major events at the Hamlet in 2015 include theTraditional Crafts & Skills weekend – 9th / 10thMay, and the Steam Gathering & Antiques Fayre– 3rd / 4th October.

Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet

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Shepherd Wheel WorkshopSet in the picturesque valley of the Porter Brook,Shepherd Wheel is a unique working example ofSheffield’s knife grinding industry.

This water-powered workshop dates back to the1500s and displays the tools of the trade forcutlery grinding. See the restored waterwheel

and machinery in action and hear stories aboutthe grinders who worked there over thecenturies at this Grade II listed building andScheduled Ancient Monument.

Telephone 0114 272 2106 [email protected] www.simt.co.uk

Kelham Island Museum - River Don Engine

Shepherd Wheel


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BAKEWELL OLD HOUSE MUSEUMTextile Project at the OldHouse Museum

The beautiful beamed Tudor room, the Solar, atBakewell Old House Museum is home to part ofthe museums extensive costume and textilecollection dating back to 1840. The collection,from wedding dresses, military uniforms, quilts,samplers, lace, Victorian dresses and capes, isvery popular with visitors and specialist textilegroups.

In June 2014 Anita Spencer the museumsmanager, was guiding new volunteer andconservation graduate Bryony Watmore, aroundthe display. Whilst examining a seemingly damppatch on the carpet Anita was horrified to pickup a carpet beetle larvae. Carpet beetle is acommon visitor in historic houses but a deadlyenemy to textiles. The beetles can lay up to 100eggs, which then hatch into larvae within 21days. The larvae cause all the damage, as theirfavorite menu is organic materials such as fur,feathers, wool, and silk. Quite a cordon bleaufeast for these pests. Bryony recognized the typeof beetle and a thorough examination of thearea took place. The findings were not goodnews it was clear from the number and variety ofbeetle (also found two spot carpet beetle) thatthe museum had a problem.

Since June a team of volunteers have spent over400 hours packing 1,000 plus textile items.,which have then been frozen, or are ready tofreeze at minus 30 deg. This action kills thebeetle larvae and eggs. Packages are being storedoffsite whilst the building is being treated withpesticides. The next stage of conservation,which is vacuuming the defrosted items, willbegin in the spring.

Undaunted, the museums volunteer textile teamare planning a beautiful display of cotton items.After all, the museum has connections toRichard Arkwright’s cotton mill, and “cotton” isnot a tasty treat for the beetle population. Sweetdresses, nightwear, christening gowns and cottonaccessories will grace the Solar room and toopen with a real bang local sculptor RachelCarter will be working on a gigantic, wovensculpture which will hang from the beams.Come along and see Rachel at work on the 25thand 26th March.

Rachel’s woven bronze sculptures are unique andwill be on display in the museum throughout the2015 season.

Fundaraising events to help with the museumsbeetle problem can be found on our websitewww.oldhousemuseum.org.uk

Carpet beetle larvae the cuddly wooly bear!

The internationally renowned and award-winning Buxton Festival featuring opera, musicand books will take place from 10 to 26 July.Much anticipated opera performances includeVerdi’s Giovanna d’Arco, Donizetti’s Lucia diLammermoor and a concert performance of

Charpentier’s Louise. Olivier award-winningElijah Moshinsky, who has previously directedproductions for the Metropolitan Opera NewYork and Royal Opera House Covent Gardenwill be directing Giovanna d’Arco.

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10th to 25th July 2015

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The 16 day Festival also features over 100concerts and recitals from world renownedmusicians and singers including pianist StephenHough, the acclaimed English ChamberOrchestra and Fitzwilliam String Quartet. Thepopular Jazz sessions in the Pavilion Café returnon Thursday, Friday and Saturday eveningsduring the Festival.

Over forty speakers including Costa awardwinning Helen Macdonald, Louis Di Berniere,Helen Castor and Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor will speak in the literary series whichwill also explore topics including the MagnaCarta, Battle of Waterloo, Alice in Wonderlandand Prince Harry.

The event also offers family and free events. Forfurther details on the packed programme visitwww.buxtonfestival.co.uk or call the Festivalteam on 01298 70395.

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CompetitionWin 2 tickets to the opening night Opera Gala

at the Opera House, Buxton

Just answer the following question : How many people visited the Festival in 2014 ?

(nearest the flag wins)answers by email to [email protected]

answers by the 20th June please !

Bolsover Food and DrinkFestival on July 25 and 26

Bolsover, home of the fairytale Bolsover Castle,will once again burst with flavour on 25 and 26July in a weekend food and drink extravaganza.

The town will be filled with market stalls andmarquees brimming with tasty fare from all overthe region, with only a few stalls still available forinterested stall holders.

The event will also showcase many awardwinning food producers, and feature children’sactivities, tours, music, food workshops anddemonstrations.

Entry to Bolsover Food and Drink Festival isfree.

Interested in booking a stall? Email [email protected]

BOLSOVER

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Aldo Zilli wows crowds at Bolsover Food & DrinkFestival in 26 July 2014

Jason of Jaquest with Great Taste Awards

Stiltwalker Miss England Intercontinental atBolsover Food & Drink Fest 2014

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Inaugural Bolsover Antiques &Collectors Fair

Bolsover will stage its first ever Antiques andCollectors Fair in May, following the completionof the town’s new public realm.

Organisers aim to attract dealers from across theregion and beyond to fill Bolsover’s streets witheverything from high end collectables to quirkyshabby chic.

“Now that construction work to transform our towncentre is complete, we are planning our events programmein earnest,” said Andrew Tristram, Bolsover TownClerk.

“People already travel from far and wide to shop at theexcellent Bolsover Antiques Centre, which is ourorganising partner for this event,” he said. “With ourhistorical town as the backdrop, we hope the BolsoverAntiques and Collectors Fair will become one of oursignature annual events, attracting visitors to enjoysoaking up an atmosphere steeped in history,” headded.

“We hope the event will live up to the success of theinaugural Bolsover Food and Drink Festival whichbrought in record crowds last July.”

Bolsover Antique Centre is home to 42individual antiques dealers, sellingeverything from vintage tobacco boxesand 1950s records, to grandfatherclocks, WWI soldier uniforms andhome decor.

Bolsover is to be a destination forantiques lovers this year with the BBC’sAntiques Roadshow coming to BolsoverCastle in July !

For more information about the event and aboutBolsover, visit www.discoverbolsover.co.uk,email [email protected], follow onTwitter @alloverbolsover or like the DiscoverBolsover facebook page.

Paul Ford of Old Time Clock Repairs at Bolsover Antiques Centre

In less than 20 years a 200-square-mile forest,spanning parts of Derbyshire, Leicestershire andStaffordshire, has flourished – transforming oneof the least-wooded parts of the country. Animpressive 8 million trees have been planted,more than trebling the woodland cover, creatinghabitats for wildlife and a beautiful landscape foreveryone to enjoy – truly, a forest for the nation.New woodlands and visitor attractions such asRosliston Forestry Centre, with its walking andcycling trails, now provide the setting fornumerous fascinating towns and villages that canbe explored.

Melbourne & Ticknall - Abbeyand Arts

Today an attractive Georgian town, the historyof Melbourne can be traced through some tencenturies. Named as Mileburne in the DomesdayBook, it has an imposing 12th-century church,the scant remains of a 14th-century castle, grand18th-century Melbourne Hall and Gardens and,down the road in Ticknall, fascinating CalkeAbbey – a wonderfully crumbling stately homesurrounded by grounds studded with venerable oaks.

THE NATIONAL FOREST & BEYONDAT THE HEART OF ENGLAND

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Rosliston Forestry Centre

Driveway to Calke Abbey

Melbourne Hall

Children playing at Rosliston Forestry Centre

Melbourne also boasts a host of famous sons –not least Thomas Cook, creator of the packageholiday – and, each September, a vibrant artsfestival. The town centre has a wealth ofopportunities for shopping including localproduce, galleries, antiques shops and clothingalongside a wide range of restaurants, cafés andbistros.

Trent Towns – Canals andCastles

Dotted along the River Trent and the 18th-century Trent & Mersey Canal you will find anumber of appealing towns and villages:Willington, with its marina and nature reserve,where you might spot a bittern; Repton, home toone of England’s most notable historic schoolsand Anglo-Saxon St Wystan’s Church, whose8th-century crypt is the resting place of Merciankings; Shardlow’s historic wharf; and ElvastonCastle Country Park, 80 hectares of rollinggreenery and landscaped gardens spread aroundthe Gothic revival castle.

Swadlincote – Clay andCoalmining

The earth has been yielding its mineral treasuresaround Swadlincote for over seven centuries – adocument dated 1294 refers to the granting of

mineral extraction rights. The ‘Cottages ofSwartling’, as the Old English name meant, sawa boom fuelled by coalmining and clay extractionin the late 18th century, becoming SouthDerbyshire’s largest town. Today you candiscover the legacy of that industry at thefascinating Sharpe’s Pottery Museum, centred ona 19th-century kiln, and explore over 12 hectaresof country park in Swadlincote Woodlands. Thetown has a variety of offerings to suit all tastesfrom Swadlincote Ski & Snowboard Centre toThe Pipeworks with its cinema, food & drinkand retail outlets. In the heart of the towncentre, The Delph public square hosts eventsthroughout the year from the annual pancakeraces to the award winning farmers’ andtraditional markets.

Swadlincote TouristInformation Centre

Swadlincote’s Tourist Information Centre is afont of all knowledge for local attractionsincluding those with facilities for disabledvisitors. They sell maps and guide books, canbook accommodation and coach trips for youand offer tickets for events and theme parks.

Sharpe’s Pottery Museum, West Street,Swadlincote DE11 9DGTel: 01283 222 848Email: [email protected]

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Melbourne Hall Seale Wood, Nr Netherseal, Derbyshire

Walking along Ashby Canal, near Moira Furnace, Swadlincote

Children playing at Rosliston Forestry Centre

The Derwent Valley is the birthplace of thefactory system, where new types of buildingwere erected to house ground-breakingtechnology for water-powered manufacturing.The system developed here was copied acrossthe globe which is why the Derwent Valley Millswere inscribed on the UNESCO World HeritageList in 2001.

Cromford Mill, at the north end of the site, is agood starting point for understanding the story.It was at Cromford in the 18th century thatRichard Arkwright devised modernfactory production techniques. AtCromford, the viewing platform in themill yard gives a great view of watergushing through the wheelpit –a realsense of water power.

Nearby are Sir Richard Arkwright’sMasson Mills, built on the banks of theDerwent to reflect the grandeur of itsriver gorge setting. Masson Mills now

house a working textile museum andshopping village. In Cromford village itself,North Street contains the first industrialhousing in the world.

From Cromford, take the Birdswood boatrun by the Friends of Cromford Canal, toHigh Peak Junction with its early railwayworkshops. Nearby is LeawoodPumphouse, which occasionally still pumpswater from the Derwent into the canal.

Further south is Belper, home to the NorthMill, one of the world’s first fireproofbuildings. William Strutt used cast ironinstead of timber for the internal structure,

a major step in building construction, which ledto the modern-day skyscraper. Strutt’s NorthMill now houses a museum and visitor centre.

Well worth seeing in Belper is the Georgianhorseshoe weir built to create a head of water topower the mills. The red-brick East Mill isprominent– a 1912 steel framed building. At itsside are the River Gardens – an attractive settingfor summer Sunday concerts and boating on theriver.

DERWENT VALLEY MILLSWORLD HERITAGE SITE

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Weir at Belper © Ashley Franklin

Belper River Gardens from East Mill


In Belper, take a look at the community built forthe Strutt workers, but like in Cromford,remember these are people’s homes – don’t starein windows or knock on doors! A walk up LongRow shows the best features.

The World Heritage Site has been training shopand business workers in Belper, so when visitorsask them a question about the town’s heritage,attractions and facilities they’re able to give theright answers. Visit the town centre (winner ofthe 2014 Great British High Street Competition)and look for World Heritage Signs in shopwindows to find out more about the town.Heading south, you reach Milford, where themills have gone, but you can still see themillworkers’ houses. Further south, close toDerby, are the Darley Abbey Mills, the mostcomplete 18th century mill complex in theworld. Although the mills aren’t open to thepublic, they and the millworkers’ housing canstill be seen. Nearby is Darley Park, offering anattractive walk into Derby city centre. After the park ends, you soon arrive at the SilkMill. The mill was a model for the later textilemills built by Arkwright and partners 50 yearslater.

For more information on the World HeritageSite call Strutt’s North Mill in Belper on 01773880474, or view www.derwentvalleymills.org

Belper River Gardens from East Mill

Masson Mills from the Derwent

Signpost - page 47

Birdswood on the Cromford Canal

Signpost - page 48

LEA GARDENS

Nestling in as o u t h - w e s t -facing slope,lookingacross toone of the1 , 0 0 0 - f o o t(305m) peaksofthe Penninechain. LeaGardens is a woodland garden planted with aunique collection of highly acclaimedrhododendrons, azaleas, kalmias and otherspecimens collected from the far corners of theworld.

The Gardens are sited on the remains of amedieval millstone quarry and cover an area ofapproximately 4 acres with a mile of pathways.The renowned speciality gardens include anexcellent rock garden containing a huge varietyof alpines with acers, dwarf conifers,heathersand spring bulbs.

Bird life has been encouraged in quiet woodlandwalks below the main gardens. This area, plantedwith ornamental trees and specie

rhododendrons, contains many assorted bird-boxes donated by friends of Lea Gardens.

Come along and enjoy the beautiful colours,scents and natural bird life of the site. Specialevents including the Lea Garden Music Day addto the ambiance and celebratory mood. Plant Sales- the specialist nursery has anextensive selection of rhododendrons, azaleasand kalmias for sale

The Tea Gardens Café offers the perfecttranquil setting to enjoy fair-trade tea, specialitycoffee and homemade cakes after your touraround the beautiful gardens. Lea Gardens useslocally sourced ingredients

Telephone 01629 534380www.leagarden.co.uk

18 & 19 July 5 & 6 Dec

5 Apr 9 & 10 May 3 & 4 Oct

12 & 13 Sept

Find out more at www.simt.co.ukT: 0114 272 2106E: [email protected]

3 Inspiring Places, 1 Steel Story3 Inspiring Places, 1 Steel Story

1940s Wartime Weekend | Vintage Fayre23rd Victorian Christmas Market

Crafted Easter Egg Trail Traditional Crafts & Skills weekendSteam Gathering & Antiques Fayre

Heritage Open Day

Kelham Island Museum

Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet

Shepherd Wheel

‘War Work’ and ‘Sheffield Remembers’ exhibitions open throughout 2015.

A summertime celebration of opera, music and literature in the hills of the beautiful Peak District

OPERA Rediscovered gems MUSIC Celebrated soloists and ensembles from the worlds of classical music and jazz BOOKS Famous authors and popular faces with great stories to tell

buxtonfestival.co.uk

10–26 JULY 2015

Documents

2015 Derbyshire Signpost