Stoney Middleton: A Hidden Gem in the Derbyshire Peak District
Stoney Middleton is an interesting and pretty village in the Derbyshire Peak District, much of which might be missed by those who drive swiftly through it on the A623. Those who take the time to detour away from the main road with its dark, overhanging cliffs, however, will be rewarded with a wealth of beautiful buildings, little lanes lined with stone cottages, a very unusual octagonal church, and even a little brook running through the 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 Derbyshire village.
History of Stoney Middleton
Stoney Middleton has a long history, and it is thought likely to be a Roman settlement. The origins of the name date back to Saxo-Norman times, meaning ‘stony middle farm’. A semi-circular earth platform known as Castle Hill overlooks the village, although there is little archaeological evidence to identify the exact nature of the structure.
Stoney Middleton is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as being an area of land owned by King William I.
In the 17th Century the residents of Stoney Middleton were instrumental in helping their neighbours in the village of Eyam, which was affected by the Great Plague in 1665-1666. The villagers of Eyam relied on those in Stoney Middleton to bring them food and essential supplies every day, in exchange for money soaked in vinegar left at the Boundary Stone between the two villages.
Notable Buildings in Stoney Middleton
In the 15th Century a stone chapel was constructed at the crossroads of tracks between Stoney Middleton, Eyam and Grindleford. The tower still survives and is now part of St Martin’s Church. The church has a very unusual octagonal nave dating back to 1759, the oldest of only two in Britain.
In the centre of the village is the beautiful Middleton Hall, a private manor house. This was once the home of Thomas Denman, Britain’s Lord Chief Justice in 1832. Denman also owned the building opposite, known locally as the Roman Baths. This is actually a 19th Century bath house built over a natural thermal hot spring which heats the water to a constant 18 degrees Celsius. The Bath House provided two baths – one for ladies and one for gentlemen – separated by a wall. Each bath measured 3m x 4m and was 1.5m deep. The waters were believed to have healing powers.
Another notable building in Stoney Middleton, also octagonal, is the small toll house on the main road, currently used as a fish and chip shop – the only Grade II listed fish and chip shop in Britain! The toll house was constructed to collect tolls on the road that was blasted through the rock of Middleton Dale in 1830, now the A623.
Stoney Middleton today has a number of eateries and a wonderful pub, The Moon Inn, which serves great food, local ales and welcomes walkers. The Moon Inn is reputedly haunted by the ghost of a local pedlar who was murdered after reporting fellow unlicensed traders. It was once featured on the TV series Most Haunted.
Industry and Recreation
The area around Stoney Middleton is riddled with old quarries and mines, and this part of the Peak District has been renowned for its lead and mineral mining since Roman times. Quarrying and mining were once the main sources of industry for the village.
A handful of the quarries are still operational, although the dramatic limestone crags that overlook the village are now mostly used for more enjoyable leisure pursuits, and are popular with rock climbers, cavers, walkers and bird watchers.
Stoney Middleton is well known for the quality of its rock climbing. In the 1960s and 1970s it was famed for having some of the most challenging climbs in the world, and in the past has attracted such climbing greats as Chris Bonington, mountaineer and conqueror of Everest.
Coombs Dale
Just outside the village is Coombs Dale, a beautiful limestone valley, now designated a Special Area of Conservation. This 230 acre site contains a range of nationally important wildlife habitats, and is home to numerous species of rare flowers, butterflies and birds.
To make the most of this beautiful area, try our local Let’s Go Peak District Walks: Eyam & Stoney Middleton (5.5 miles) or Coombs Dale (4.75 miles) and make a day of it!
Walks in the Area
- Eyam & Stoney Middleton Walk (5.5 miles) – Explore both villages and the surrounding countryside
- Coombs Dale Walk (4.75 miles) – A beautiful limestone valley with rare wildlife
Where to Stay in Stoney Middleton
Stoney Middleton offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From the historic Moon Inn to charming guest houses and self-catering cottages, there is something for every visitor.
Accommodation Options
- The Moon Inn – historic 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 Stoney Middleton Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the village and Coombs Dale. Autumn brings stunning colours to the limestone valley.
- Getting There: Stoney Middleton is accessible by car via the A623, located between Bakewell and Chesterfield.
- Parking: There is parking available in the village, including near the church and the pub.
- Don’t Miss: The unusual octagonal St Martin’s Church, the Roman Baths, and the only Grade II listed fish and chip shop in Britain.
- Explore: Coombs Dale and the surrounding limestone crags are perfect for walking, climbing and wildlife spotting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stoney Middleton
Is Stoney Middleton worth visiting?
Absolutely! Stoney Middleton is a fascinating village with a rich history, unusual architecture, and beautiful countryside on its doorstep. It is a hidden gem in the Derbyshire Peak District.
What is Stoney Middleton famous for?
Stoney Middleton is famous for its unusual octagonal church, its Roman Baths, its connection to the Eyam Plague story, and for having the only Grade II listed fish and chip shop in Britain.
What is the history of Stoney Middleton?
Stoney Middleton is thought to be a Roman settlement and is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. It played a vital role in helping the village of Eyam during the Great Plague of 1665-1666.
What is unusual about St Martin’s Church?
St Martin’s Church has a very unusual octagonal nave dating back to 1759, the oldest of only two in Britain.
What is Coombs Dale?
Coombs Dale is a beautiful limestone valley just outside Stoney Middleton, designated a Special Area of Conservation. It is home to rare flowers, butterflies and birds.
Is The Moon Inn really haunted?
The Moon Inn is reputedly haunted by the ghost of a local pedlar who was murdered after reporting fellow unlicensed traders. It was once featured on the TV series Most Haunted.
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.
