Conksbury Village

Heritage Site in Derbyshire Derbyshire Dales

England

Conksbury Village

Broadmeadow Shaft Adjacent to the cottages here, which were once the offices of the Alport Mining Company, can be seen a large mound which marks the site of the Broadmeadow Shaft on the Alport mines. This company was an amalgamation of various separate mining concerns and operated the very rich lead mines of this area. They were classed as the most heavily watered mines in the country and suffered from inflows of more than 6000 gallons a minute. Consequently, heavy pumping was necessary, chiefly by water pressure engines which used a column of water to power them. The well known Cornish engineer, Richard Trevithick was consulted and he was responsible for the first of many such underground machines within this region. Water to power the engine in this shaft was taken from the River Lathkill and over Alport village in wooden launders and then by a tunnel to the shaft. All the pumped water, along with that used by the engines (of which there were upwards of seven scattered throughout the workings) was drained away by the deep Hillcarr Sough, a tunnel driven from the River Derwent near Darley Dale. — Broadmeadow Shaft Credit: Richard Bird

Conksbury Village, located in Derbyshire, England, is a charming heritage site that offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and architectural heritage. Nestled in the picturesque countryside, this village is renowned for its well-preserved medieval buildings and captivating atmosphere.

Dating back to the 13th century, Conksbury Village exudes a sense of timelessness, with its narrow streets lined with traditional stone cottages and timber-framed houses. The village's architecture showcases a variety of styles, including Tudor and Georgian, providing a visual feast for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike.

One of the prominent landmarks in Conksbury Village is the St. Mary's Church, a striking example of medieval craftsmanship. This ancient church features intricately carved stone details and a beautifully preserved interior, offering a tranquil place for reflection and worship. Visitors can also explore the village's historic market square, which has been a focal point of community life for centuries.

Conksbury Village is not only a testament to the region's past but also a thriving community with vibrant local shops, cozy tearooms, and traditional pubs. It offers visitors a chance to experience the warm hospitality of the locals while indulging in traditional English fare.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, the village is surrounded by breathtaking countryside, perfect for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. The nearby Conksbury Woods provide a serene escape, with ancient trees and wildlife to be discovered.

Conksbury Village truly encapsulates the essence of a quintessential English village, with its historic charm, architectural treasures, and natural beauty. A visit to this heritage site promises an unforgettable experience steeped in history and a chance to immerse oneself in the idyllic charm of rural England.

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Conksbury Village Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.185/-1.678 or Grid Reference SK2165. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Broadmeadow Shaft

Adjacent to the cottages here, which were once the offices of the Alport Mining Company, can be seen a large mound which marks the site of the Broadmeadow Shaft on the Alport mines. This company was an amalgamation of various separate mining concerns and operated the very rich lead mines of this area. They were classed as the most heavily watered mines in the country and suffered from inflows of more than 6000 gallons a minute. Consequently, heavy pumping was necessary, chiefly by water pressure engines which used a column of water to power them. The well known Cornish engineer, Richard Trevithick was consulted and he was responsible for the first of many such underground machines within this region. Water to power the engine in this shaft was taken from the River Lathkill and over Alport village in wooden launders and then by a tunnel to the shaft. All the pumped water, along with that used by the engines (of which there were upwards of seven scattered throughout the workings) was drained away by the deep Hillcarr Sough, a tunnel driven from the River Derwent near Darley Dale.

Richard Bird

Grave of John Millington, railway navvy, Youlgreave Churchyard

During the construction of the Midland Railway near Haddon Hall in 1861 a tunnel was insisted upon by the Duke of Rutland so that the line could not be seen from the hall. A part of this tunnel collapsed during construction on 2nd July 1861 killing five workers. The grave of one of these can be found in the churchyard. The inscription reads: "In memory of John Millington of Stanton, killed by the falling of an arch on the railway near Haddon Hall, July 2nd 1861 aged 46 years". Reference to his 6 year old daughter is also on the stone whose body rests in Warrick churchyard, Ruthin, North Wales.

Richard Bird

St Anne's Church Over Haddon

Martin Dawes

Old stone barn alongside River Lathkill

Martin Dawes

Stone flagged footbridge over dry River Lathkill

Martin Dawes

Evening sun on Over Haddon Village Hall

Martin Dawes

Commemorative Plaque on Over Haddon Village Hall

Martin Dawes

Field footpath to Over Haddon

The large white building is the hotel/pub/restaurant. Eat in the bar if dog is with you, we dined there 3 times during our stay in the village, an excellent base to tour from.

Martin Dawes