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Wirksworth Heritage Centre

Crown Yard
Market Place
Wirksworth
Derbyshire
DE4 4ET

The Story of Wirksworth encompasses the history of the town from prehistoric times to the modern day. The prosperity of the town was built on leadmining which declined in the nineteenth century. Quarrying and the manufacture of tape then became the principal occupations which have only recently died out.

The Heritage and Visitor Centre shows through numerous exhibits and hands on experiences how the town and the surrounding area has grown over the last two thousand years. Come and spend some time re-living the experiences and cstoms of this quaint little town.

Discover the author George Eliot's connection with Wirksworth, one of the settings for her novel, Adam Bede.

Find out why the mills in Wirksworth manufactured miles and miles of red tape.

See the living conditions of the quarryman and listen to his story.

Lead Mining was the principal occupation in the area for over a thousand years. See how the lead ore was extracted from the bowels of the earth and the tools that were use.

If you squeeze into Dream Cave, you can experience the conditions of the mine and meet the long extinct Wooly Rhinocerous.

Enjoy the latest exhibition honouring Ellen MacArthur, a local lass. See how she became the leading yachts-woman in the world.

We have opened a Gallery on the ground floor to enable local artists, sculptors, potters, photogrphers and historians to show their work in temporary exhibitions.

At the end of your visit, do not forget to browse in our Shop to buy local books, souvenirs, cards, pottery, postcards, etc.

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Directions

On the B5023. Matlock 5 miles, Ashbourne 9 miles, Bakewell 13 miles and Derby 14 miles.

Wirksworth Heritage Centre Postcode for SatNav: DE4 4ET

Contact

 
Tel:
+44 (0)1629 825 225
Email:
Web:


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