Youlgreave

Settlement in Derbyshire Derbyshire Dales

England

Youlgreave

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

Youlgreave is a charming village located in the county of Derbyshire, England. Situated in the Peak District National Park, it is surrounded by picturesque countryside and offers a peaceful and idyllic setting. With a population of around 1,200 residents, Youlgreave has a close-knit community and a strong sense of local pride.

The village is renowned for its historic buildings, with many dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The narrow winding streets are lined with traditional stone cottages and quaint shops, creating a delightful atmosphere. Youlgreave also boasts a beautiful parish church, St. John the Baptist, which is a focal point of the village.

Nature lovers are drawn to Youlgreave for its stunning natural beauty and numerous walking trails. The nearby Lathkill Dale, known for its limestone cliffs and crystal-clear river, is a popular spot for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. The village is also a gateway to the famous Peak District, offering easy access to breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities.

Youlgreave has a strong sense of community spirit, with various events and festivals taking place throughout the year. The Well Dressing Festival, held in May, is a highlight where locals decorate wells with intricate floral displays. The village also has several traditional pubs and tea rooms, providing a warm welcome to visitors.

Overall, Youlgreave is a quintessential English village, offering a peaceful retreat amidst stunning natural surroundings. Its rich history, charming architecture, and strong community make it a must-visit destination in Derbyshire.

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Youlgreave Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.175215/-1.6864211 or Grid Reference SK2164. 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