Heath

In the Domesday Book of 1086, two settlements are recorded around the present location of the village of Heath; they were called ‘Lunt’ and ‘Le Hethe’. The two villages probably combined during the 12/13th centuries. However, relatively little change has taken place since then, and maps from as long ago as 1609 show the village in almost its present layout.

There many places of interest close to Heath, including to the north the ruins of what was one of the grandest mansions in Derbyshire, Sutton Scarsdale Hall. Built in 1724 for the 4th Earl of Scarsdale, to the designs of Francis Smith, the stonework of the previous Tudor manor house was completely hidden behind the Baroque splendour of the new hall. At the beginning of the 20th century Sutton Scarsdale was owned by a descendent of Sir Richard Arkwright, the famous industrialist. It is this gentleman that D.H. Lawrence is supposed to have chosen as the inspiration for his character of Sir Clifford Chatterley in the controversial novel Lady Chatterley’s Lover. The hall is said to have many ghosts.

Stainsby Mill is also a short distance away, as is Hardwick Hall. With its machinery now restored to illustrate the workings of a 19th-century water-powered corn mill, Stainsby Mill is well worth a visit. Open between March and 21st December, however the particular days vary, please check opening times. Details can be found online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk.