Pictures of West Hallam
About West Hallam
This is one of a group of villages all bearing the name of Hallam, with West Hallam being the largest. It lies to the north of Derby, close to Ilkeston. It is an old village, as evidenced by its inclusion in the Doomsday Book when it was given by William the Conqueror to Gilbert de Gant, Earl of Flanders. From this time onwards the village came under the ownership of the Lords of the Manor, after centuries of various owners this practise only ceased in the 20th century.
Ever since coalfields were discovered in the area during the 17th century, coal has been the main-stay of village economy. The village colliery was linked to Shipley colliery with the Erewash Canal via the Nutbrook Canal, which opened in 1795. Coal mining ceased shortly after the close of World War II. At this point it is worth mentioning the village War Memorial, this is an impressive monument depicting two Lewis gunners on a plinth.
The village church dedicated to St. Wilfred dates from around the 14th century, with a later tower added during the 15th century. The church is interesting for its historic treasures, amongst these is the tomb showing the effigies of Walter Powtrell and his wife, he was a previous Lord of the Manor. In the picturesque churchyard visitors will note graves from several centuries, and this is where the War Memorial is located. The church-yard is one of the best places to view the undulating Derbyshire countryside, there are fine views in all directions.
West Hallam continues the tradition of Well Dressing and hosts an annual, colourful ceremony attended by visitors from all the local villages.
There are several properties of note, these include school buildings of the 17th century endowed through the will of the then Rector, John Scargill who died in 1662. These buildings now form the village hall and a private residence, they have been carefully transformed so as not to detract from their architectural character and merit.
West Hallam has all the usual village amenities, the most interesting of these is a rare 18th century bottle kiln which has been restored to provide a buttery, art gallery and plant nursery. There is also an Equinine centre.
Shipley Park is within easy reach, so too is the American Adventure Park.
