Pictures of Great Longstone

About Great Longstone

This picturesque village lies tucked into the fold of Longstone Edge, an escarpment of some five miles long which rises to around 1300 feet. It is one of the most decorative places in a landscape dominated with high peaks. Great Longstones' main street climbs in a gentle fashion, showing to best advantage its mellow 18th-century cottages and dignified houses. Centuries ago, the village was a centre for the shoe trade, this is reflected in the name of the village pub the Crispin Inn, named so for St.Crispin, who was the patron Saint of Cobblers. In later years, the prosperity of the village came from local lead mines where work has continued until recently.

Much of village life is centred around the lovely Church of St.Giles. The church is of 13th-century origin and is situated in a quiet, sheltered churchyard behind a stone wall. It has a handsome clock tower adorned with graceful pinnacles, it's most outstanding feature is the beautifully carved woodwork and amazing roof beams. The cornices in the church have become a little ragged, but still show bosses of flowers and foliage. The atmosphere is one of cool serenity where you can worship amidst treasures from the church's historic past.

Note should be taken of the centuries old village cross and of impressive Great Longstone Hall, built in the middle of the 18th-century.by John Wright, a member of the Wright family. The Wright's were a well known Derbyshire family who owned and lived at the Hall for over 400 years. It has now passed into other hands but the family still has a presence in the village. Another interesting building is the Monsaldale Viaduct. Left for years with very little interest the viaduct is now considered to be of historical importance. In nearby Ashford, classical Thornbridge Hall was built in the Georgian period as a private home. In spite of a chequered history, this imposing property is once again in private ownership and restored to its former glory as a minor stately home with antique showroom. The house has magnificent gardens enhanced with fine original statutory. The quiet hamlet of Little Longstone is famous for its matchless view from Monsal Head which takes in Monsal Dale and its steep. winding gorge.

With plenty of places to visit including historic Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall at nearby Bakewell, Great Longstone - set in spectacular High Peak scenery, makes an ideal destination from which to explore the timeless natural beauty and treasures, of the Peak District National Park.