Curbar

Although it is Eyam that is famous as the ‘Plague Village’, Curbar suffered much the same way, though about 30 years earlier. During the height of the infection bodies were taken away from the centre of the village, and usually as quickly as possible, to prevent the spread of the disease. Many of the graves were left unmarked, but at Curbar the Cundy Graves (dating from 1632) can be seen on the moors above the village. They are named after the Cundy family, who farmed nearby. Below the Wesleyan Reform Church there are other graves.

Missionaries have trained at Cliffe College, since 1883. It is now a theological college and conference centre sponsored by the Methodist Church.  Interesting older features of the village include a circular pinfold or stock compound on top of Pinfold Hill, where stray animals were kept until claimed by their owners. There is also a covered well and circular trough, and an unusual village lock-up with a conical roof.

The coarse gritstone ridge of Curbar Edge, which shelters the village, is popular with rock climbers and walkers alike.