It’s famous as the Peak District’s ‘plague village’ … but there’s so much more to experience and enjoy in Eyam. History, modern life and a deep sense of community blend beautifully and, as Fiona Stubbs discovers, autumn is the perfect time to visit
There’s a slight chill to the morning air, leaves are tinged with shades of gold and brown – and, throughout the village, there’s a thrill of anticipation.
“There’s something quite magical about Eyam at this time of year,” smiles Anne Hyde. “It’s when the village feels its most peaceful and atmospheric. The stone buildings, old walls and autumn colours make everything feel incredibly cosy and restorative.”
Anne and her partner Paul McGreevy opened their business, Delightful Living, in Eyam Hall Courtyard three-and-a-half years ago after falling in love with the village during their own visits.
“Eyam is a village with an incredible past, but it feels very much alive in the present,” adds Anne. “We were first drawn to its history and character but it’s the people, the community and the beauty of the village through the seasons that makes us want to be here.”
Considered the Peak District’s ‘hidden gem’, Eyam remains an accessible, yet unhurried, place to eat, drink, shop and stay. With free parking and good bus routes, it’s ideal for either a day out or a relaxing mini-break.
Delighful Living, Eyam Hall Courtyard
Spread across three characterful buildings – The Barn, The Bothy and The Mews – this award-winning store showcases modern country interiors, homewares, thoughtful gifts and seasonal accessories.
“This is the time of year when people start thinking about making their homes feel cosy again,” says co-owner Anne Hyde. “There’s something lovely about choosing a new cushion, throw or candle as the evenings draw in.”
She adds: “We’re always inspired by what’s happening outside our doors and the colours we see around Eyam naturally find their way into the things we choose for the shops.
“We want people to enjoy the whole experience of coming to Eyam – the village, the countryside and discovering our little shops along the way.”
https://www.delightfulliving.co.uk
Instagram: @delightfulliving
The Hut Eyam, The Nook
Above the village, nestling privately among rustling trees is a haven of peace and tranquility.
The Hut Eyam offers the ultimate get-away-from-it-all – a romantic place to stay for couples or a base for friends to explore.
The shepherd’s hut is based on an original and traditional design with owner Rachel Smith creating a calm and cosy interior, focusing on seasonal touches to encourage guests to escape their every day – to slow down, turn off technology and experience the beautiful Peak District countryside.
Guests arrive to classical music playing gently in the background, seasonal scented candles, foraged finds and garden pickings on the sill, books to read, games to play – and a bedside book with a nod to the season. A woodburner keeps the hut warm and cosy while, outside, a firepit offers a chance to toast marshmallows while gazing up at the stars.
“We know what it’s like when you’re busy and juggling life,” says Rachel. “So we offer our guests the chance to completely switch off and relax. Autumn is a wonderful time to visit – bring your boots, jumpers and scarves and explore by day; enjoy a lazy pub lunch, then return here to get really cosy.”
Rachel also organises the annual Eyam Makers Market, where local artisans showcase and sell their work. The small, bijou event is held at the historic Market Hall – where once locals bartered and sold eggs, bread and other produce – from 21st to 29th November (excluding Wednesday 25th).
https://www.thehuteyam.co.uk/
Instagram: @thehuteyam_thecottageeyam
@eyam_makers_market
Village Green Café, The Square
The Village Green Cafe. Picture: Helen Rowan Photography
“A village of love, community and resilience … where history and humanity meet.”
These are among the words painted on a sign outside Eyam’s Village Green café, greeting friends, old and new. “They sum up how I feel about being part of Eyam’s community and history, welcoming people and caring for them,” says the café’s owner, Sara Price.
Village-Green Café is well-known for delicious homemade food, award-winning bakes and great coffee – ideal after a walk around the historic village and surrounding countryside.
It champions local suppliers and artisans, hosting regular workshops as well as a networking group for micro businesses.
And autumn is a particularly special time to visit. “I love autumn,” adds Sara. “The crisp leaves underfoot, collecting pine cones and beech nuts. It brings a change in our menu, too, with nourishing soups made with fresh seasonal ingredients and our very special cheese toasties which get amazing feedback. Good food in a warm and friendly environment makes people happy.”
https://www.cafevillagegreen.com
Instagram: @cafevillagegreen
Eyam Hall, Main Road
Built in 1672, just six years after the plague, Eyam Hall is a beautifully unspoilt example of a Jacobean Manor House – and has been home to the Wright family for 11 generations.
Originally built as a wedding present, Eyam Hall fittingly hosts relaxed outdoor marriage ceremonies and also intimate smaller ceremonies in the Flagged Hall. Marquee receptions are held in the walled garden while the Upper Barn is the perfect venue for smaller receptions.
The cobbled Eyam Hall Courtyard – originally a cluster of farm buildings, is now home to Delightful Living, Eyam Book Barn – a volunteer-run second hand book store – and Affogato café, serving authentic Italian gelato and other treats, patisserie cakes, fresh focaccias and local coffee.
Eyam Hall opens to visitors just twice a year – in spring and autumn. The halls and gardens will be open from 20th October to 8th November, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays (11am to 3pm).
eyamhall.co.uk / Instagram: @eyamhallweddings
Eyam Museum, Hawkhill Road
Many people are drawn to Eyam Museum to learn more about its experience of plague in 1665-1666 … but discover much, much more.
The independent museum – a registered charity – tells Eyam’s many stories from the suffering and survival of local people during the plague to its wider social history and industrial heritage, spanning lead mining, cotton and flax production, silk weaving and boot and shoe making.
The museum includes a well-stocked gift shop with many products reflecting Eyam’s history. Choose from educational books, plague-inspired cuddly toys and souvenirs to gifts and homewares, locally sourced where possible.
Much of the museum’s origins and collection is owed to the work of Clarence Daniel (1911-1987). Born into a family of shoe repairers, whose ancestors had survived the plague, he avidly collected information and artefacts associated with the village, producing books and creating a museum in his own home.
Eyam is famous for its response to the bubonic plague outbreak in 1665 with villagers bravely deciding to quarantine themselves in June 1666 to prevent the disease spreading to nearby towns. During the 14-months the plague remained in the village, many lives were lost but the six-month isolation saved countless others. Walking through Eyam today, you can visit the plague cottages, the church and the plague graves.
https://www.eyam-museum.org.uk/
Instagram: @eyammuseum
Facebook @eyamvillagemuseum
Eyam Bonfire Returns!
Eyam Bonfire returns on Saturday 7th November, promising a fantastic evening for the whole community.
The evening will include a spectacular torchlit procession through the village, leading to the lighting of the bonfire. Taking pride of place will be the famous giant wicker rat – a memorable nod to Eyam’s remarkable history!
There will also be plenty of food and drinks available, including warming mulled wine, followed by a fantastic fireworks display.
The event raises valuable funds for the local school, directly benefiting the children in the community. Tickets will be available soon, so keep a lookout for further details and save the date!
https://www.facebook.com/eyamptfa?