 | Alfreton is a former coal mining town located in the North of Derbyshire: recorded in William the Conqueror's 1084 'Doomsday' survey as 'Elstretune'. Legend would have us believe that the town takes its name from Alfred the Great, although there is no actual proof of this. Some evidence exists that there was a settlement at Alfreton in Saxon times.
One of the town's most famous sons was one Robert Watchorn, who emigrated to America and became the Supervising Inspector General of Immigration to the United States. He always remembered his roots and gave Alfreton a significant amount of money. A number of buildings, including the Watchorn Memorial Church, the Lincoln Library, sports ground and pavilion were built by him.
Alfreton is the perfect place to use as a base for exploring both the Derbyshire Dales and the Peak District. It is also handily located for travelling to the cities of Nottingham, Derby and Sheffield.
A well known local landmark is Alfreton Hall: a stunning country house set in landscaped grounds. The history of Alfreton Hall estate dates back to Georgian times: it was the ancestral home of the prosperous Palmer-Morewood family. A new Hall was built in the 18th Century and it was extended twice during the 19th Century. Part of the original 18th Century construction was destroyed in 1964, but the east wing and main hall remain.
Other things to see in Alfreton include the parish church of St Martin: here you will find monuments to the Morewood family, and also an old lock-up which is known as a 'house of confinement' - this dates from 1820 and is located at the bottom of King Street.
There are plenty of shops here, as well as many restaurants and pubs. |
