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Wirksworth
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View of Wirksworth from South West - Photo:
Mike Fowkes
CCL |
A town of steep terraces,
narrow streets and alleyways, Wirksworth was at
one time one of the most important lead mining
centres in Britain. As this industry declined its
place was taken by limestone quarrying, and one of
the town’s unique attractions is the National
Stone Centre, which offers activities such as
gem-panning and fossil-casting. Likewise, the
North End Mills allow visitors to see how hosiery
has been made.
Jacobean Babington House is
linked to the infamous Antony Babington who was
executed in 1585 for his part in a plot to free
Mary Queen of Scots.
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At 13th century St Mary’s
Church is a coffin lid on which is one of the
oldest stone carvings in Britain, known as the
Wirksworth Stone. The Saxon lid, dated to 800AD,
was found by accident in 1820 when a paving was
removed from the altar.
One mile south are two mills
built by the pioneer industrialist Richard
Arkwright. They were among the first in the
country to use water power. Nearby, the so-called
Black Rocks offer magnificent views over the
Derwent Valley.
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