Few places have as rich a history, geography, culture and natural beauty as the village of Castleton, and its history has been shaped by several truly fascinating events related to its location in the Peak District.
With many unique events, landmarks, attractions and places to stay in Castleton, it is also important to appreciate the unique history of the area, which spans as far back as the Celts.
The great hill Mam Tor has seen settlements that date back as far as the Bronze Age (3300BC – 1200BC), with the ruins of a hill fort still found near its summit, with the incredible views of Hope Valley being important to protect the early Celt settlements from attack.
Once the Romans conquered large parts of Great Britain, they created some of the oldest mines in the country. Odin Mine, in particular, was initially set up by the Romans to mine lead and would be used until 1869, with the mine being used for thousands of years and successive kingdoms.
Castleton itself was mentioned in the Domesday Book, the first recorded survey of England commissioned by William the Conqueror not long after he invaded England in 1066.
In 1086, Castleton, then known as ‘Pechesers’, was gifted to William Peverel, allegedly William the Conqueror’s illegitimate son, along with Glapwell and Bolsover.
The village came about soon after the castle was bequeathed to Mr Peverel, as part of a military keep that ultimately never saw battle, with its beautiful location allowing for a village to thrive under its protection, with a unique culture that is the jewel of the Peak District to this day.
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