Bonsall

Settlement in Derbyshire Derbyshire Dales

England

Bonsall

Matlock Bath and the River Derwent A view of South Parade in Matlock Bath in Derbyshire. Taken from the Jubilee Bridge. — Matlock Bath and the River Derwent Credit: Oliver Mills

Bonsall is a small village and civil parish located in the Derbyshire Dales district of Derbyshire, England. Situated in the heart of the Peak District National Park, it is nestled in the beautiful limestone hills and valleys of the White Peak region. Bonsall is approximately 4 miles southwest of Matlock and 20 miles north of Derby.

With a population of around 800 people, Bonsall has a tight-knit community that takes pride in its rich history and picturesque setting. The village dates back to at least the 12th century and is known for its well-preserved medieval street plan, which adds to its unique charm. The narrow streets are lined with traditional stone-built houses, some of which have been beautifully restored.

The village has a range of amenities, including a primary school, a post office, a convenience store, and a few pubs. Bonsall also hosts an annual well dressing event, a local tradition where wells are decorated with intricate floral displays. This event attracts visitors from near and far, adding to the village's vibrant atmosphere.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Bonsall offers plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside. The nearby Limestone Way, a long-distance footpath, passes through the village, providing access to stunning walks and hikes. Additionally, the area is popular for caving and rock climbing, with numerous limestone caves and crags in the vicinity.

Overall, Bonsall is a charming and idyllic village that offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Peak District National Park, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxed countryside experience.

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Bonsall Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.118503/-1.588399 or Grid Reference SK2758. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Matlock Bath and the River Derwent

A view of South Parade in Matlock Bath in Derbyshire. Taken from the Jubilee Bridge.

Oliver Mills

Prospect Tower

The famous stone tower at the Heights Of Abraham, Matlock. One of the pylons for the cable car can be seen to the right.

Oliver Mills

Cable cars at the Heights Of Abraham

The three cars leaving the upper pylon, at the Heights Of Abraham. Parts of the car park and the train station can be seen through the trees in the top right corner.

Oliver Mills

Floating man act, Matlock Bath

An illusion act on the streets of Matlock Bath. This performer was also seen in Burton-on-Trent in July.

Oliver Mills

Temple Mine, Temple road, Matlock Bath

This mine is part of the Peak District Mining Museum and there are regular guided tours underground. Surface exhibits include a steam winch that is currently (9/2015) under plastic sheeting.

Chris Allen

Temple Mine - steam engine

Under the sheeting is a horizontal duplex geared steam winding engine by John Wood of Wigan that was formerly used at Long Rake Spar Mine. It is intended to prepare this for more visible display in due course. Here are previous views - SK1864 : Long Rake Spar Mine - steam engine SK1864 : Steam winding engine, Long Rake Spar Mine SK1864 : Long Rake Spar Mine - abandoned steam winch.

Chris Allen

Flying shuttles - Masson Mill

A mass of flying shuttles stored in a pitch of the north light roof of a weaving shed.

Chris Allen

Coloured yarns - Masson Mill

Now a textile museum in Arkwright's classic mill near Matlock Bath.

Chris Allen

Jacquard cards - Masson Mill

Masson Mill is now home to a textile museum. The Jacquard loom used punched cards that were the precursor of the cards used in an earlier generation of computer.

Chris Allen