Monyash: A History of a Peak District Village
Monyash is a small village in the Peak District National Park, England. It is situated in the head of Lathkill Dale, one of the most beautiful and tranquil dales in the county. Monyash has a long and rich history, dating back to at least Neolithic times.
The village’s name is thought to be derived from the Old English words “mani” (meaning “many”) and “eas” (meaning “water”).
The first recorded mention of Monyash was in the Domesday Book of 1086. At that time, the village was a small hamlet with just a few dozen inhabitants. However, Monyash’s fortunes began to improve in the 12th century, when lead was discovered in the area. Lead mining became a major industry in Monyash, and the village grew rapidly.
By the 14th century, Monyash was a thriving market town with a population of over 1,000 people. The village had its own weekly market, and it was also a centre for the lead mining industry. Monyash was also home to a number of notable people, including the Quaker John Gratton, who lived in the village from 1640 to 1711.
Monyash’s fortunes declined in the 19th century, as the lead mining industry began to decline. However, the village has since recovered, and it is now a popular tourist destination. Monyash is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Church of St. Leonards, which dates back to the 12th century. The village is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Notable People Who Lived in Monyash
- John Gratton (1640-1711): A Quaker preacher and writer, Gratton lived in Monyash for 34 years. He was a leading figure in the Quaker movement in the Peak District, and he is buried in the village churchyard.
- William Butterfield (1814-1900): An architect, Butterfield was responsible for the restoration of the Church of St. Leonards in Monyash. He also designed a number of other buildings in the village, including the Bull’s Head Inn.
Conclusion
Monyash is a fascinating village with a long and rich history. It is a great place to visit if you are interested in history, nature, or simply looking for a peaceful place to enjoy the delights of the white peak area. It is close enough to the popular hub of Bakewell with transport links, to be easy to visit, but quiet enough to avoid the busy crowds.
Header Photo: Monyash, Derbyshire by Chris Morgan, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
