Eyam: History, memorial sites and landscape

Eyam brings together the memory of the plague of 1666 with earlier and later historical points of reference. The churchyard of St Lawrence preserves an Anglo-Saxon cross; Plague Cottage and Rose Cottage are associated with the history of the plague. The dates 1672 and 1860 also form part of the local history. In addition, the village lies at the transition between limestone and sandstone landscapes, which are associated with Dark Peak and White Peak. Those choosing Eyam as a destination can take its history, landscape and local event dates into account when planning their stay.

St Lawrence and the history of Eyam

The churchyard of St Lawrence contains a very well-preserved Anglo-Saxon cross. Its interlacing patterns and vine and leaf ornaments are elaborately carved; the figures include Christ, the Virgin Mary and angels. The cross offers a tangible insight into the design of a historical object, while St Lawrence itself has been a place of worship since the 13th century. The long religious history and the cross represent different periods in time at the same churchyard.

Another important part of the village’s history is the plague in Eyam in 1666. Plague Cottage and Rose Cottage are Grade II listed buildings and are historically associated with the plague. The monument to the entire Hancocke family near Riley also commemorates family members who died of the plague. Catherine Mompesson was the wife of Eyam’s vicar, who prevented the plague of 1666 from spreading to other areas. Together, these places and people represent different aspects of the history passed down, although they did not all play the same role in it.

Events in late August

The annual Plague Commemoration Service takes place in late August, usually on the Sunday of the Bank Holiday weekend. Eyam Well Dressing also takes place each year in late August, usually on the Saturday of the same weekend. This means two different events are held on consecutive days of the Bank Holiday weekend: a commemorative service and Well Dressing. If you would like to time your trip to coincide with either event, check the specific dates in advance.

Further historical points of reference

The village’s history offers clear reference points beyond 1666, too. Eyam Hall dates from 1672. The present-day Eyam Mechanics Institute replaced three earlier cottages in 1860. These details complement the history of the plague with a later period in the village’s development; they refer to two different buildings and different years. Eyam’s history can therefore be understood not only through a single event, but also through several dates and named places.

Landscape and historical walks

Eyam lies at the transition between limestone and sandstone landscapes, which are associated with Dark Peak and White Peak. This landscape connection complements the historical themes by offering another way to view the village. If you consider the landscape as well as historic sites when choosing a destination, this transition is a point of reference in its own right.

Eyam Museum offers short historical walks through the village. Booking is possible in person on the day, provided volunteer guides are available. This condition is important for planning: the walks are offered, but whether they can be booked depends on guide availability. So ask in person on the day of your visit whether a walk can be booked.

Getting there and planning your stay

Daily bus service 65 connects Sheffield and Buxton via Eyam. If you plan to use this service, check the timetable for your travel date.

Several distinct considerations can therefore help you decide whether Eyam suits your trip: the history of the plague of 1666, the cross and history of St Lawrence, other historic buildings and dates, the transition between landscapes, and the events in late August. Those particularly interested in history can also consider the museum’s short walks as a possible activity. These interests can help guide your choice of destination when looking for a hotel in Eyam; the specific search for a suitable offer is a separate matter.

Discover more destinations: Unstone, Hardstoft, Wirksworth, South Wingfield, Ashover, Peak Forest, Hathersage, Whaley Bridge

For the main travel overview: Derbyshire.