We highly recommend a country cottage holiday in Eyam or close by. Eyam is a small Derbyshire village set in the heart of the Peak District National Park in the Hope Valley, which is very well preserved. This village has a fascinating history, which visitors like to explore amongst the various artefacts to be found today. There are many fine, grand stone buildings in the village along with tree lined streets, making it a pleasant place for a country cottage holiday. A stay here could also be an excellent choice for keen walkers, hikers and cyclists with the beauty and ample countryside of the Peak District National Park available from the doorstep.
Visitors to this village may well want to learn about the history of the area whilst on a cottage break. The village’s place in history was secured when the Great Plague came to the village in 1665 and villagers took the unusual decision to quarantine the village until the plague subsided. Although there were many deaths, this decision probably saved many more. Several poems, operas, plays and songs have been written over the years about this remarkable chapter in the story of this village.
Advice on Cottage Holidays in Eyam
If you love history and atmospheric places you will not want to miss Eyam Moor when holidaying here. Eyam Moor has three stone circles and is popular with walkers, who enjoy the views over the Derwent Valley. St. Lawrence is the village parish church and is well known for its 8th century Celtic cross in the churchyard. An unusual sundial is to be found at the south wall, which dates back to 1775. Time is displayed in half hours and indicates the time in other locations across the world. The church has relics from the time of the plague and there is an exhibition on the plague and its effect on the village.
One of Eyam’s best attractions is perhaps the museum which tells the history of the village from prehistory onwards. Of course, several displays relate to the plague story and you can see examples of early medical instruments and learn about how medicine was practised in the 17th century. In addition, exhibits explain the various industries and mining activities associated with Eyam plus collections of coins, clay pipes, Derbyshire postcards, photographs, documents and pottery.
Another recommended day out whilst on a cottage break in this part of the country, is to visit Eyam Hall. Eyam Hall is currently a family home but is open to the public. There has been recent talk about this property soon to become leased to the National Trust but at the time of writing this had not been confirmed. This Jacobean manor house is very impressive. Highlights include a stone-flagged hall and a tapestry room plus a collection of costumes and toys from 1860 to the present. 17th century designed gardens include a rose walk, kitchen garden and a knot garden. A Craft Centre where you can buy artwork and craft items also hosts workshops with various courses teaching artistic skills. Beware, as this estate is said to be haunted!
In August every year, Eyam plays its part in the old Derbyshire custom of well dressing. This involves decorating wells with natural materials into a pleasing image, often relating to local culture.
Eyam is also well located for discovering some of the Peak District’s top sights. The popular market towns of Buxton and Bakewell are located close by. Buxton is just 15 miles away whereas Bakewell is 8 miles away.
Eyam offers history but so much more and visitors go home with memories of scenic views and tales of modern hospitality. Staying in self-catering accommodation can often work out to be the best option when it comes to staying on budget and the idea of renting a comfortable home from home with ample space, privacy and maybe even a garden can be appealing. There are plenty of available options when it comes to accommodation. Choose from rural retreats, romantic cottages, pet-friendly cottages and family cottages.
Whether you choose to book a holiday cottage in Eyam, an apartment, a lodge or another type of self-catering holiday accommodation, we hope you have your best holiday yet in Derbyshire.
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