Longnor: A Beautiful Staffordshire Village on the Peak District Ridge
Longnor is a beautiful little Peak District village in the Staffordshire countryside, situated on a high ridge between Buxton and Hartington. It is a place full of history, with pretty stone houses lining narrow streets.
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.
A Place of History
Longnor is an ancient place, listed in the Domesday Book of 1086, but there is evidence of a settlement in the area since around 700AD. The original church of St Bartholomew was founded in the 13th Century, although the present building is more recent, dating from 1781. There is also a Methodist Chapel in the village, albeit sadly no longer in use, built in the 18th Century.
Longnor was a significant market town in the 18th and 19th Centuries. At the heart of the village is a lovely cobbled square, complete with what was once the 19th Century Market Hall, still displaying an original market sign with the table of tolls payable for buyers and sellers.
Explore the quiet, winding back lanes today and you will discover a treasure trove of hidden gems, revealing why Longnor has been a village of choice for the setting of many films and TV shows. You might recognise it as the location for the TV series Peak Practice and Pride and Prejudice, or the film The Holding (2011).
Staffordshire Beauty
Longnor is notable for the stunning Peak District countryside that surrounds the village. This is excellent walking country, close to the area around the famed ‘Dragon’s Back’ of Parkhouse Hill and Chrome Hill.
The surrounding countryside offers a wealth of walking opportunities, from gentle strolls through the Dove and Manifold valleys to more challenging hikes up the limestone ridges. The area is particularly popular with walkers seeking the dramatic landscapes that make the Staffordshire Peak District so special.
Where to Stay in Longnor
Longnor offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From traditional pubs with rooms to charming guest houses and self-catering cottages, there is something for every visitor.
Accommodation Options
- Traditional pubs with rooms in the village
- Charming guest houses and B&Bs
- Self-catering cottages in the surrounding countryside
- Camping and caravan sites nearby
Top Tips for Your Longnor Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the surrounding countryside. Autumn brings stunning colours to the valleys and hills.
- Getting There: Longnor is accessible by car via the B5053, located between Buxton and Hartington.
- Parking: There is parking available in the village, including near the market square.
- Don’t Miss: The cobbled market square with its original market sign, and the dramatic ‘Dragon’s Back’ of Parkhouse Hill and Chrome Hill.
- Explore: The quiet, winding back lanes are full of hidden gems and historic architecture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Longnor
Is Longnor worth visiting?
Absolutely! Longnor is a beautiful village with a rich history, a charming cobbled market square, and stunning surrounding countryside. It is a perfect base for exploring the Staffordshire Peak District.
What is Longnor famous for?
Longnor is famous for its cobbled market square with the original 19th Century Market Hall, its history as a market town, and its use as a filming location for Peak Practice, Pride and Prejudice, and The Holding.
How old is Longnor?
Longnor is an ancient place, listed in the Domesday Book of 1086, with evidence of a settlement in the area since around 700AD.
What is the Dragon’s Back?
The ‘Dragon’s Back’ refers to the dramatic ridge of Parkhouse Hill and Chrome Hill, located close to Longnor. It is a popular walking destination with stunning views.
What films and TV shows have been filmed in Longnor?
Longnor has been used as a filming location for the TV series Peak Practice and Pride and Prejudice, as well as the film The Holding (2011).
Is there parking in Longnor?
Yes, there is parking available in the village, including near the market square. However, it can fill up during busy periods.
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.
