Mompesson's Well
Mompesson's Well: A symbol of Eyam's courageous plague quarantine, where money was sterilized in vinegar-filled waters.
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Must-see attractions
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Pleasant walks, blooming nature
Mompesson's Well
Best Time
Pleasant walks, blooming nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Mompesson's Well: A symbol of Eyam's courageous plague quarantine, where money was sterilized in vinegar-filled waters.
"A poignant historical site, deeply connected to Eyam's brave plague quarantine."
🚶♀️ Walk from the Village
Enjoy a lovely walk through the woods to reach the well, offering scenic views.
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking is available in a small lay-by near the well, so arrive early if driving.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mompesson's Well
Eyam, Derbyshire
The historic well where money was left for sterilization during the plague, a symbol of Eyam's sacrifice.
Eyam Village
Derbyshire
Explore the 'plague village' that chose isolation, with its museum and poignant history.
Woodland Walk
Paths around Eyam
Enjoy a beautiful walk through the woods, connecting the village to the well.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand Eyam's Plague History
Plan Your Walk to the Well
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk from the Village
Enjoy a lovely walk through the woods to reach the well, offering scenic views.
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking is available in a small lay-by near the well, so arrive early if driving.
Today I learned that in 1666, the English village of Eyam made an extraordinary sacrifice. After the bubonic plague reached their community, the villagers chose to quarantine themselves rather than flee. An estimated 260 villagers died, however, this decision likely saved thousands.
TIL of Eyam. A small Northern English village of 350 persons who in 1665 when the plague arrived chose to isolate themselves rather than let the infection spread. 83 survived but their decision stopped further infection in the region.
📜 Understand the History
Visit the Eyam Museum first to fully appreciate the well's significance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the well can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
TIL that in 1666, the entire English village of Eyam, when contaminated with the bubonic plague, agreed to quarantine itself, essentially sentencing themselves to death, instead of fleeing to other villages. They did it to stop the disease from spreading. Some 260 villagers died.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from the Village
Enjoy a lovely walk through the woods to reach the well, offering scenic views.
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking is available in a small lay-by near the well, so arrive early if driving.
📜 Understand the History
Visit the Eyam Museum first to fully appreciate the well's significance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the well can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Mompesson's Well a poignant historical site, deeply connected to Eyam's brave plague quarantine. While the well itself is modest, the surrounding woodland walk and the rich history, especially when combined with the Eyam Museum, make it a worthwhile and moving experience. Parking is limited, and some find the well itself to be a brief stop.
"Named for Eyam Priest William Mompresson, who helped stop the spread of the plague when it came to Eyam by isolating the village. The well was filled with vinegar to sterilise money coming in and out of the village mainly given to other villages for produce left for the people of Eyam, such as food. We walked to the well from the museum quite a walk but lovely views. If you are interested in the history of this village them visiting the well is a must. We then walked back down to the village through some lovely woods."
lisa sowerby
"Lovely walk through the woods to the well. Interesting history as its where a exchange of food was made during the plague. They left money in the well to pay to clean the coins."
Ian B
"Not much to see but has some history with the village. All you see in the 2 pics is pretty much all that is there. You can drive right up to it and park right outside it, but only a small layby for a single car."
Mark Taylor
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Mompesson's Well by car via a small lay-by, or enjoy a scenic walk through the woods from Eyam village. The walk offers lovely views and is a popular choice for visitors.
While direct public transport to the well itself might be limited, buses serve the nearby village of Eyam. From Eyam, you can then walk to the well. Check local bus schedules for routes to Eyam.
Mompesson's Well is located just outside Eyam village. If driving, look for the small lay-by parking area near the well. It's easily missed, so keep an eye out.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mompesson's Well is an outdoor historical site and generally does not require an entrance fee. It's a free-to-access historical landmark.
As an outdoor historical feature, Mompesson's Well is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Mompesson's Well, you'll see the historic well itself, a key site in Eyam's plague history. The surrounding area offers a glimpse into the village's past and the sacrifices made.
Most visitors spend a short time at the well itself, perhaps 15-30 minutes, especially if they've walked from the village. The experience is often combined with a visit to Eyam Museum and the village.
Yes, children can visit Mompesson's Well. The walk through the woods can be an adventure, and the historical context can be explained in an age-appropriate manner.
Absolutely! You can take photos of the well and the surrounding natural beauty. The woodland walk also offers great photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no dining facilities directly at Mompesson's Well, the village of Eyam offers several charming pubs and tea rooms where you can enjoy refreshments after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The well itself is the primary subject. The surrounding woodland, especially during autumn, provides beautiful natural backdrops for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Eyam Museum first to provide context. The museum often has exhibits that can capture children's attention. When at the well, focus on the 'money in the well' story, which is often fascinating for younger minds. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear for the walk, and pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited at the well itself.
🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts
Make time to explore Eyam village itself, visiting the plague cottages and the churchyard. The walk to Mompesson's Well provides a tangible connection to the past, allowing you to retrace steps that were once fraught with danger and bravery. The well's role in the sterilization of money is a particularly intriguing detail for history buffs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Mompesson's Well and Eyam's Plague
Visiting Mompesson's Well offers a tangible connection to this remarkable historical event. While the well itself might seem modest, its significance is immense. It stands as a testament to the resilience, sacrifice, and community spirit of the people of Eyam. Many visitors find the walk to the well from the village, often through picturesque woodlands, enhances the experience, allowing time for reflection on the historical events that unfolded here.
For a deeper understanding, it's highly recommended to visit the Eyam Museum before or after your trip to the well. The museum provides comprehensive exhibits detailing the plague's impact on the village, the lives of its inhabitants, and the decisions made during that critical period. This context truly brings the story of Mompesson's Well to life and underscores the bravery of the Eyam villagers.
Experiencing the Walk to Mompesson's Well
As you traverse the woodland trails, you'll experience the natural beauty of the Derbyshire countryside. The changing seasons offer different visual delights, from the fresh greens of spring to the vibrant hues of autumn. This natural setting adds a layer of tranquility to the historical significance of the well, allowing for a more contemplative visit. It’s a chance to connect with the landscape that has witnessed centuries of history.
While the walk is rewarding, be aware that parking directly at the well is limited to a small lay-by. For those who prefer to drive, arriving early is advisable. However, the walk is highly recommended by many who have visited, as it allows for a more immersive experience and a greater appreciation of the journey the villagers and their ancestors would have taken.
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