Winster: A Pretty Lead Mining Village in the Derbyshire Peak District
The very pretty village of Winster lies in the Derbyshire Peak District, between Matlock and Bakewell.
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.
Ancient History
Winster is an interesting, ancient village, mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as ‘Winsterne’. It lies very close to a prehistoric trading route, the Derbyshire Portway, and an 18th Century turnpike road between Newhaven and Nottingham.
Lead Mining History
Winster was a historic centre for lead mining, for which it has been well known since Roman times. The boom in the lead mining industry in the late 17th and early 18th Century led to Winster’s population rising to more than 2,000 people. By 1750 it was one of the largest and most prosperous towns in the county. However, the mines steadily closed as the industry became uneconomical and died out, and the last working mine in the village, Mill Close, closed in 1939.
Notable Buildings
The village contains many notable buildings, including the Market House, which was the first property in the Peak District to be acquired by the National Trust in 1906. Unusually for the area, it is constructed of red brick, and stands in a dominating position at the top of the main street. Winster Market House (admission free) now houses an information room with interesting exhibits about the village’s history.
Many of the pretty houses in the village are built from the local limestone, and Winster has no less than 70 listed buildings. The church of St John has a tower that dates from 1721 and an unusual two-aisled nave. The village curfew bell still rings at 8.00pm every evening.
Winster Today
The village’s population today is around 600, and although it is much less populous now than in its mining heyday, it has a thriving and active community. There are two pubs, a school, a church, two chapels, a number of shops and a village hall. Winster still holds an annual carnival, known as Wakes Week, usually in early July.
Winster is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills, characterised by the limestone cliffs and drystone walls that are typical of the White Peak. There are a great many walks and cycle routes starting and ending in the village, and the area is well worth exploring.
Where to Stay in Winster
Winster 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 Winster Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the White Peak countryside. Early July is particularly lively with the Wakes Week carnival.
- Getting There: Winster is accessible by car via the B5056, located between Matlock and Bakewell.
- Parking: There is parking available in the village, including near the Market House.
- Don’t Miss: Winster Market House (the first National Trust property in the Peak District), the curfew bell at 8pm, and the beautiful limestone architecture.
- Explore: The surrounding White Peak countryside offers excellent walking and cycling routes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winster
Is Winster worth visiting?
Absolutely! Winster is a beautiful and historic village with fascinating lead mining heritage, 70 listed buildings, a thriving community, and stunning White Peak countryside.
What is Winster famous for?
Winster is famous for its lead mining history, its Market House (the first National Trust property in the Peak District), its 70 listed buildings, and the curfew bell that still rings at 8pm every evening.
How old is Winster?
Winster is an ancient village mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as ‘Winsterne’. It lies close to a prehistoric trading route.
What is the history of lead mining in Winster?
Winster has been a centre for lead mining since Roman times. The industry boomed in the late 17th and early 18th Century, making it one of the largest towns in the county. The last working mine closed in 1939.
What is Winster Market House?
Winster Market House was the first property in the Peak District to be acquired by the National Trust in 1906. It is constructed of red brick and now houses an information room about the village’s history.
Does the curfew bell still ring in Winster?
Yes! The village curfew bell still rings at 8.00pm every evening from the church of St John.
What is Wakes Week?
Wakes Week is Winster’s annual carnival, held in early July. It is a popular village tradition that brings the community together.
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 5.2 miles
🥾 Nearby Walks
- Robin Hood's Stride (2.7 miles) 1.3 miles
- Youlgreave via Lathkill Dale (7.6 miles) 3 miles
- High Peak Trail via Minninglow Hill (3 miles) 3.3 miles
- Matlock Bath Circular Walk (6 Miles) ✨ NEW 3.9 miles
🍺 Local Pubs
- Farmyard Inn, Youlgrave 3 miles
- The Peacock at Rowsley 3.4 miles
- Lathkil Hotel 4.2 miles
☕ Cafes & Tearooms
- Peak Village 3.6 miles
- The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop 5.2 miles
- Hassop Station Café & Monsal Trail Cycle Hire 6.4 miles
🏨 Places to Stay
- Westhills Courtyard 0.7 miles
- Rocking Stone Cottages 1 miles
- Boulder Field Cabin & Hot Tub 1.5 miles
- Rewilded Retreats 2.5 miles
🏛️ Attractions
- Peak Rail 2.6 miles
- Gulliver’s Kingdom, Matlock Bath 3.5 miles
- The Heights of Abraham 3.6 miles
- Peak District Lead Mining Museum 3.6 miles
🎪 Coming Up
Distances are straight-line and approximate. Actual travel distances may vary.
