Beeley: A Picturesque Village on the Chatsworth Estate
Beeley is a picturesque little village surrounded by beautiful countryside at the southern end of the Chatsworth House Estate, with pretty stone cottages clustered on quiet lanes.
Planning a visit? Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from top attractions and walking routes to practical tips for making the most of your trip to this beautiful Derbyshire village.
History
One of four villages used primarily for employees of the Chatsworth House Estate (the others being Pilsley, Edensor and Calton Lees), Beeley was purchased by the third Duke of Devonshire in the mid-18th Century. It is still home to many past and present employees of the Dukes of Devonshire. Its ducal heritage means that it has stayed largely unspoilt, with little in the way of new housing or development.
Beeley Today
The village is small but there is plenty of interest for the visitor, not least a lovely pub, the Devonshire Arms, and a popular café.
The graceful church of St Anne’s is also well worth a visit. Dating back to 1150, much of the original building is still intact.
Beeley Moor
The village is also an excellent place to base yourself if you want to explore the Chatsworth House Estate, or enjoy moorland walks. Beeley Moor is remote and beautiful, wild with heather in the summer months. There are numerous footpaths across the countryside and here it is not hard to escape the crowds that often descend upon Chatsworth.
Visitors to Beeley Moor should take the time to see Hob’s Hurst House, an unusual Bronze Age burial mound, square in shape.
Where to Stay in Beeley
Beeley offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From the Devonshire Arms to charming guest houses and self-catering cottages, there is something for every visitor.
Accommodation Options
- The Devonshire Arms – lovely pub with rooms
- Charming guest houses and B&Bs
- Self-catering cottages in the surrounding countryside
- Camping and caravan sites nearby
Top Tips for Your Beeley Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the moorland. The heather on Beeley Moor is particularly beautiful in late summer.
- Getting There: Beeley is accessible by car via the B6012, located between Matlock and Bakewell.
- Parking: There is parking available in the village, including near the Devonshire Arms.
- Don’t Miss: St Anne’s Church, the Devonshire Arms, and Hob’s Hurst House on Beeley Moor.
- Explore: The Chatsworth House Estate and the remote beauty of Beeley Moor are both within easy reach.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beeley
Is Beeley worth visiting?
Absolutely! Beeley is a picturesque village with beautiful stone cottages, a lovely pub, a historic church, and easy access to the Chatsworth Estate and Beeley Moor.
What is Beeley famous for?
Beeley is famous for its position on the Chatsworth Estate, its lovely Devonshire Arms pub, St Anne’s Church dating from 1150, and its proximity to Beeley Moor.
How old is St Anne’s Church in Beeley?
St Anne’s Church dates back to 1150, with much of the original building still intact.
What is Hob’s Hurst House?
Hob’s Hurst House is an unusual Bronze Age burial mound, square in shape, located on Beeley Moor.
What is there to do on Beeley Moor?
Beeley Moor offers remote and beautiful moorland walks, with heather in bloom during the summer months. It is a great place to escape the crowds.
Is there a pub in Beeley?
Yes, the Devonshire Arms is a lovely pub in the heart of the village.
For more information about visiting the area, explore the official Peak District National Park visiting guide and plan your adventure in this remarkable part of Derbyshire.
ℹ️ Tourist Information
- Bakewell Visitor Centre 2.9 miles
🥾 Nearby Walks
🍺 Local Pubs
- The Beeley Inn 0 miles
- The Peacock at Rowsley 1.1 miles
- The Pilsley Inn 2.7 miles
☕ Cafes & Tearooms
- Peak Village 0.9 miles
- The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop 3 miles
- Hassop Station Café & Monsal Trail Cycle Hire 3.5 miles
🏨 Places to Stay
- The Beeley Inn 0 miles
- The Peacock at Rowsley 1.1 miles
- Chatsworth Cottages 1.7 miles
- The Pilsley Inn 2.7 miles
🏛️ Attractions
- Chatsworth House 1.7 miles
- Peak Rail 2 miles
- Haddon Hall 2 miles
- Matlock Farm Park 3.4 miles
🎪 Coming Up
Distances are straight-line and approximate. Actual travel distances may vary.
