Butterton: A Peaceful Doubly Thankful Village in the Staffordshire Peak District
The pretty village of Butterton lies in the Staffordshire Peak District, just four miles south of the market town of Leek. Many of the buildings in the village are lined with pretty sandstone cottages, and a substantial ford (Hoo Brook) runs through the centre along a cobbled street.
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 Staffordshire village.
Mining History
Like many villages in the area, Butterton’s history over centuries was linked with copper and lead mining. There is evidence of extensive mining industry here from at least the 17th Century, at which time the Duke of Devonshire owned the mineral rights to the local copper mines. A number of packhorse routes pass through the region, particularly around nearby Ecton Hill, once used by horses transporting copper out of the area.
Farming Tradition
Long before mining came to the area, however, and continuing long after it left, there has been a farming tradition in Butterton. The name of the village is likely to have come from Butere Dun, or Butter Hill, indicating the quality of the grazing land for dairy herds. It is still largely a farming landscape now, characterised by rolling pasture land criss-crossed with dry stone walls.
Manifold Way
Butterton lies very close to the Manifold Way, a converted railway line, originally operated by the North Staffordshire Railway. The line was closed in 1934 and the trail now makes a wonderful 8 mile route for walkers, cyclists and riders through the stunning White Peak countryside.
Doubly Thankful Village
Butterton is a Doubly Thankful Village, so-called because all the men from the parish returned safely from the First and Second World Wars. Butterton is the only such village in Staffordshire, and one of only two in the Peak District (the other being Bradbourne).
Butterton Today
Butterton today is a peaceful, rural idyll in the most stunning setting. The beautiful church of St Bartholomew’s is a Grade II listed building, built in 1871, its graceful spire dominating the surrounding area. It also has a wonderful country pub, The Black Lion Inn, which serves good food.
Where to Stay in Butterton
Butterton offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From The Black Lion Inn to charming guest houses and self-catering cottages, there is something for every visitor.
Accommodation Options
- The Black Lion Inn – wonderful country pub
- Charming guest houses and B&Bs
- Self-catering cottages in the surrounding countryside
- Camping and caravan sites nearby
Top Tips for Your Butterton Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the Manifold Way and surrounding countryside.
- Getting There: Butterton is accessible by car via minor roads from Leek, located 4 miles south of the town.
- Parking: There is parking available in the village, including near the church and the Black Lion Inn.
- Don’t Miss: The cobbled ford through the village, the Manifold Way, and the beautiful St Bartholomew’s Church.
- Explore: The Manifold Way offers 8 miles of traffic-free walking and cycling through stunning White Peak countryside.
Frequently Asked Questions About Butterton
Is Butterton worth visiting?
Absolutely! Butterton is a peaceful, rural village with a fascinating history, beautiful sandstone cottages, a cobbled ford, and easy access to the Manifold Way.
What is Butterton famous for?
Butterton is famous for being a Doubly Thankful Village (one of only two in the Peak District), its cobbled ford, its mining and farming heritage, and the Manifold Way.
What is a Doubly Thankful Village?
A Doubly Thankful Village is one where all the men from the parish returned safely from both the First and Second World Wars. Butterton is the only such village in Staffordshire.
What is the Manifold Way?
The Manifold Way is an 8 mile converted railway line, now a wonderful route for walkers, cyclists and riders through the White Peak countryside.
What is the history of Butterton’s name?
The name Butterton is likely to have come from Butere Dun, or Butter Hill, indicating the quality of the grazing land for dairy herds.
Is there a pub in Butterton?
Yes, The Black Lion Inn is a wonderful country pub in the village serving good food.
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 Staffordshire.
ℹ️ Tourist Information
- Ashbourne Information Point 8.9 miles
🥾 Nearby Walks
- The Manifold Way 1.3 miles
- Wetton Mill via the Manifold Way (5 miles) 1.3 miles
- Hartington Dales Walk (5.4 miles) 4 miles
- Dales of the River Dove (8 miles) 5.1 miles
🍺 Local Pubs
- The Jervis Arms 1.7 miles
- The Manifold Inn 2.6 miles
- The Royal Oak, Hurdlow 6.7 miles
☕ Cafes & Tearooms
🏨 Places to Stay
- Active Stays 0.1 miles
- Hall Farm Holiday Cottages, Wetton 2 miles
- Bank House Farm Campsite 2.7 miles
- Hartington Hills 2.9 miles
🏛️ Attractions
- Peak Wildlife Park 3.4 miles
- Alton Towers Resort 8.2 miles
- Poole’s Cavern 10 miles
- Go Ape! Treetop Adventure 10 miles
🎪 Coming Up
Distances are straight-line and approximate. Actual travel distances may vary.
