Tideswell

Dubbed ‘the Cathedral of the Peak’, the magnificent 14th century Parish Church of St John the Baptist has a wealth of splendid features, and is one of the grandest parish churches in Derbyshire. The tower is impressive, the windows are beautiful and there is a fine collection of brasses inside. The ‘Minstrel of the Peak’, William Newton, is buried in the churchyard (see also Cressbrook).

In other parts of Derbyshire, natives of Tideswell are said to come from ‘Tidsa’, which takes its name from a Saxon chieftain called Tidi. Over 900 feet above sea level, the surrounding countryside offers many opportunities to wander, stroll, or take a leisurely (or energetic) hike through some varied and impressive scenery.

The village is one of the most ancient in the Peak District, and was granted its market charter in 1251. This was where the Great Courts of the Royal Forest of Peak met during the reign of Edward I, and some of buildings in the village may have foundations going back to that time.

Eccles Hall, overlooking the Market Place, was built in 1724 and became the home of the headmaster of the Grammar School in 1878.

By the 14th century the village was a flourishing centre for the local wool trade. Today it is home to a number of craftspeople working in buildings converted from other uses. The excellence of their work is apparent, not only in the items they make, but also in the splendid well-dressing they help to arrange annually on the Saturday nearest St John the Baptist’s Day, 24th June.