Location
Welcome to Wirksworth
With a thriving arts community, Wirksworth is a magnet for lovers of history and heritage.
Things to do in Wirksworth
With its imposing stone buildings and intricate network of narrow lanes, yards and alleys, Wirksworth is one of Derbyshire's prettiest market towns.
Its fortunes were built on lead mining, quarrying and textiles - introduced by industrial pioneer Sir Richard Arkwright at Haarlem Mill, considered by some to be the mill in George Eliot's novel The Mill on the Floss. Eliot is also thought to have based the fictional town of Snowfield in another novel, Adam Bede, on Wirksworth, and even DH Lawrence lived and wrote here.
Visitors to Wirksworth are spoilt for choice for things to see and do. The Ecclesbourne Valley Railway operates services from Wirksworth to Duffield running through one of Derbyshire’s most lovely and unspoilt valleys. The spectacular Wirksworth StarDisc – a 21st century stone circle star chart – sits high above the town and illuminates the constellations at night. The National Stone Centre and Mount Cook Adventure Centre lie on the edge of Wirksworth, and in the town itself St. Mary’s Church – one of the finest in the county – is well worth a visit.
A new award-winning Heritage Centre tells the fascinating stories of Wirksworth and its people, and regular guided walks around the town also leave from here. Like many of the Peak District and Derbyshire's market towns, Wirksworth is perhaps best explored on foot.
Local traditions include Well Dressing, the ancient ceremony of 'Church Clypping', the annual carnival and well-known Wirksworth Arts Festival each September. This is the time to experience the buzz of street theatre, music, family events and the famous Art & Architectural Trail when more than 150 artists throw open their doors for visitors to browse and buy original and affordable art – also a chance to take a look inside some of the most historical and quirky homes and buildings in Derbyshire!
In recent years, Wirksworth has gained popularity for its unique and quirky annual Wirksworth Wizarding Day, usually held at the end of October, when visitors can enjoy Harry Potter-themed entertainment and activity.
Featured Businesses
Featured
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Great British Car Journey
Boasting a collection of 150+ modern British classics, Great British Car Journey tells the story of the rise and fall of the British motoring…
Open today: 9:30am - 4:00pm
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Weathericks and Bradstone
In The Area
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Featured
Business
Great British Car Journey
Boasting a collection of 150+ modern British classics, Great British Car Journey tells the story of the rise and fall of the British motoring…
Business
Weathericks and Bradstone
Two charming 5-star cottages set in beautiful countryside with spectacular views over Carsington Water on the edge of the Peak District National…
Carsington Water
Carsington Water has everything you need for a great day out - and best of all most facilities are free!
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Middleton Top Cycle Hire – High Peak Trail
Discover the wonderful High Peak Trail with excellent cycle hire from Middleton Top Visitor Centre
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Teamplay Outdoor Activities
We offer outdoor activities in a natural woodland setting in the heart of Derbyshire for family days out, stag & hen parties, birthday parties and…
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Wirksworth Heritage Centre
A fascinating Derbyshire town on the southern edge of the Peak District, where the geology and landscape have shaped its character and its people for…
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Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
The Ecclesbourne Valley Railway is a 9 mile heritage railway running both steam and diesel hauled trains.
Alport Heights
A popular picnic site and local landmark with extensive views of the Derwent and Ecclesbourne Valleys.
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Mount Cook Adventure Centre
A not-for-profit activity centre on the edge of the Peak District
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Activities at High Peak Trail & Middleton Top…
Discover the fascinating heritage of one of the world's first long-distance railways.
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Crich Tramway Village
Take a tram ride through time at Crich Tramway Village, home of The National Tramway Museum - an ideal destination for all ages.
Our Great Itineraries
Day trip from Sheffield: Explore Matlock Bath,…
Discover some of Derbyshire's most popular towns and villages by bus.
Events in Wirksworth
Events
Santa's Enchanted Journey at Ecclesbourne Valley…
Returning for 2024! Santa’s Enchanted Journey – a festive steam ride for all the family to enjoy!
Events
Wirksworth Festival
The Wirksworth Festival is a leading rural arts festival that has been around for nearly three decades.
Events
Wirksworth Christmas Weekend
Join us at Wirksworth's Sunday Christmas market showcasing the finest local producers and makers.
Trails nearby
Matlock to Bonsall Walk
This beautiful 4.3 mile route from the bus stop takes you out across open countryside on field paths to the pretty village of Bonsall, offering…
Wirksworth Circular Walk
Starting and ending at the trentbarton Sixes bus stop in the historic market town of Wirksworth, this lovely walk takes you through some of the most…
The Peak District GeoWalk
The GeoWalk is a must for rock enthusiasts guiding you through the stunning Peak District landscape and rock formations.
A Stroll along Cromford Canal
A walk along the old canal tow path on the five mile stretch through the Derwent Valley between Ambergate and Cromford passing through the village of…
Beauty Spots nearby
Day trip from Sheffield: Explore Matlock Bath,…
Discover some of Derbyshire's most popular towns and villages by bus.
Villages nearby
Carsington
A peaceful little limestone village, which gave its name to the nearby Carsington Water.
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