The Old Angel (viewed from the outside, above left) is just one of the many fine buildings in the historic village of Winster, at the heart of the Peak District National Park.

The village was mentioned in the Domesday Book and was for along time a major centre of lead mining in the area.

The mines were very prosperous, especially in the period 1750 - 1900. The last lead mine in the area closed down in 1938, but the wealth from the industry left Winster with many fine buildings from this period.

In the centre of the village is the historic medieval Market Hall - seen in the image on the left, and acquired by the National Trust as long ago as 1906.

See location of Winster

Winster is surrounded by some magnificent countryside, ideal for walking, cycling, rock climbing, hang-gliding or just sitting and looking at the views.

Within easy walking distance lie Robin Hood's Stride (pictured left), Harthill Moor, Cratcliff Tor and Stanton Moor - all fine features with good views, a rich history and excellent walking.

Winster lies within easy reach of most of the major sights of the Peak District.

Only a short distance away there is Haddon Hall, a magnificent example of a medieval manor house.

Chatsworth House, a great historic house and the home of the Dukes of Devonshire, is only about 20 minutes drive distant.

Also nearby are historic churches (such as those at Bakewell and Youlgrave), the Plague Village of Eyam, Peak Rail at Darley Dale, and stone circles on Stanton Moor (pictured left).

The market town of Bakewell is close by and Buxton, with its Spa-town elegance and Opera Festival, is less than 20 miles away.

Much closer at hand - only a short drive distant - are Matlock and Matlock Bath - with a theme park, a lead-mining museum, caverns and a cable car.

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