This week as I continue my Year of Reasons to Visit the Moorlands, I am focusing on the historical and picturesque village of Longnor that lies perfectly between the Dove and Manifold rivers.
The history of the village dates all the way back to 1086 when it was listed in that year’s Doomsday book, with evidence of settlement from around 700AD.
When walking around this beautiful village, you will notice how the history of Longnor remains striking to this day. For instance, many churchgoers each week attend Sunday services at the Church of St Bartholomew, which was founded in the 13th century and then later rebuilt in the late 18th century. The church boasts an incredible western tower and Norman front.
The churchyard is also notably where William Billinge is buried, who died at the remarkable age of 112 years old, after serving his country up to the age of 66. He fought at Gibraltar, the Battle of Ramillies and against the Jacobite rebellions.
Right at the heart of Longnor is the cobbled marketplace and former Victorian market hall, which was built in 1873 that displays an original market sign with the table of tolls payable for buyers and sellers.
Moreover, every September, thousands of people from the community, nearby villages, and across the region descend to participate in the traditional Longnor Races – known locally as the ‘Wakes Races’ – that began in 1904, by the River Manifold.
The beautiful backdrop of Longnor is also a much sought after location for many directors given that the BBC’s adaptation of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ was filmed here together with ‘Peak Practice’ and ‘The Holding’.
With plenty of hikes, trails and peaks to explore and local pubs and cafés to enjoy, Longnor is undoubtedly an excellent Reason to Visit the Moorlands.
