West Hallam

West Hallam stands on a hilltop and its Parish Church of St Wilfrid, set between the great expanse of West Hallam Hall and the rectory, is approached via a lovely avenue of limes. The church is over 700 years old and has a very handsome tower, with a blue clock with gilt hands and figures. The rector’s garden has a glorious lime tree, and looks out over the valley to a great windmill with its arms still working as they have done since Georgian times.

One of the premier attractions in the area, The Bottle Kiln is a handsome and impressive brick-built former working pottery, now home to a fine art gallery with a new exhibition every month. Visitors can take a leisurely look at both British studio ceramics and contemporary painting in the European tradition. Two shops filled with jewellery, cards, gifts, objects d’art, soft furnishings and household items with an accent on style, design and originality can also be found here. At the Buttery Café visitors can enjoy a wide choice of freshly-prepared and hearty food, along with a tasty selection of teas, coffees and cakes. All this is in an attractive landscaped setting with a Japanese-style tea garden and a unique renovated bottle-necked kiln.

West Hallam also has a well-dressing ceremony each year, normally held during the second week of July.