Explore the sleepy village of Eyam, in the heart of the UK's Peak District, to discover a dark but fascinating history

At first glance, the picturesque village of Eyam seems just like any other sleepy Peak District village. Rows of pretty stone cottages surround the church, and visitors can be seen setting off on a walk or enjoying refreshments in one of the tearooms.

However, Eyam has a dark history. In August 1665, the village was struck by bubonic plague, which arrived from London in a box of infected cloth. George Vicars, a tailor's assistant who had been set the task of spreading the material out to dry, was the first victim. He died a few days later – and within just over a year, 260 of the village's estimated 800 residents had also perished.

But it's the courageous actions of the villagers following the early days of infection that have made Eyam one of the most famous historic places in the UK.

Instead of fleeing the disease, the residents made a collective decision to quarantine themselves. No-one was to cross the boundary of the village in either direction. Although this meant the uninfected residents were at higher risk, it stopped the disease from spreading to the highly populated city of Sheffield, nearby. Countless lives were saved.

To survive the quarantine, the villagers needed help. Food and other supplies soon dwindled. But the surrounding villages rallied round, leaving food at various points along the boundary. These included the Boundary Stone, 1km to the southeast, and Mompesson's Well, 1km to the north – both of these landmarks can still be seen, and are within easy walking distance of the village.

Mompesson's Well is named after the rector of the time, William Mompesson. During the plague he conducted open-air church services on the green slopes of nearby Cucklet Delf – an action that helped prevent infection amongst the congregation. A commemoration service is still held here each year on the last Sunday of August.

Walking around Eyam today, you'll see many reminders of those brave villagers. Memorial plaques on many buildings tell the stories of former inhabitants, and a stained-glass window in the church commemorates Mompesson and the victims of the disease.

When visiting the church, also look out for the Anglo-Saxon cross in the churchyard. Dating from the 8th century, it's adorned with intricately carved Celtic designs.

Eyam is also home to a magnificent 17th century hall, historic stocks (a great photo opportunity!), pubs, tearooms, and a fascinating museum.

Ads/Affiliate links

Green Adventures is a non-profit online magazine sharing articles and news about nature, rewilding, history, culture and the great outdoors. If you like our content, please help keep us going with a small donation!