The Old Lockup
England / Wirksworth, Derbyshire
The Old Lockup is where historical tales of crime and intrigue reside in the picturesque Derbyshire Dales...imprisonment doesn't get cosier than this!
The historic market town of Wirksworth, found right on the edge of the glorious Peak District National Park, is renowned for many things; rolling hills, exceptional views of rugged natural beauty...and the infamous Old Lockup.
Built in 1842, this historically significant building was originally the magistrate's house, later becoming a police station and playing host to a selection of colourful characters, D H Lawrence among them.
With a history of unlawful activity, the Old Lockup may at first seem an unlikely setting for four Trip Advisor Certificates of Excellence. Look closer, however, and you'll see tasteful individual refurbishments of its four bedrooms that stay lovingly true to the building's unique historical features, combined with all the contemporary comforts you might expect from a plush hotel. There's also a wide selection of tasty, locally-produced home-cooked food available morning and evening, with bread freshly baked on the premises.
The spaciously comfy communal guest lounge boasts a warming open fire, if you fancy curling up with a good read you'll find plenty of choice amongst the well-stocked bookshelves, or if you prefer to listen to some music you can browse the extensive collection of classic vinyl. There's also a double airbath available, for an extra-special reviving treat after exploring the Dales in all their beauty!
The Main House features two exquisitely furnished double rooms, steeped in history. The Magistrate's Room was once home to the administer of the law himself, and is complete with its original exposed stonework. The room also houses an antique French bed and en-suite shower.
The Solicitor's Room, with hushed secrets embedded in its walls, was once the setting for lawyers' private talks with their clients. With its kingsize bed and well-stocked bookshelves this is truly a room for relaxing in. Why not enjoy a long, hot soak in the adjoining cell?
The Coach House, once home to the coachman and his trusty horses, now hosts two cosy bedrooms, the Hayloft and the Coachman's room. Both are ensuite with original brickwork and beams and boast stunning views of the countryside.
Good food is taken very seriously indeed at the Old Lockup. Take a look at the extensive breakfast and dinner menus...perhaps ruminate over which of the tempting, freshly cooked selections you might choose as your last meal! If you'd rather eat out, you'll be spoilt for choice with restaurants and bars all within easy walking distance.
The Old Lockup is an ideal base for exploring the Derbyshire countryside and the Peak District, the original inspiration for Jane Austen's ‘Pride and Prejudice'. The nearby High Peak Trail is pure heaven for any dedicated cyclist or hiker and Carsington Reservoir also offers a wide selection of watersports.
For culture vultures, Wirksworth Festival is staged during September, offering three vibrant weeks packed with art, music, comedy, dance and theatre. For a unique day trip, why not visit the National Stone Centre, with its fifty stunning acres of countryside and a protected Site of Special Scientific Interest, or take in the grandeur of Chatsworth House?
With all The Old Lockup has to offer, once you've stayed there, you may find you want to be locked in for good!
Things to noteMinimum 2 night stay at weekends and 3 nights during bank holidays, 1 night stays are not usually confirmed outside of one week in advance of stay dates, but may be requested, property not suitable for young children, well behaved pets are permitted by prior arrangement, check-in is available from 4pm. Prices start at £95 for first night and £85 for subsequent nights. Single occupancy room rate from £75 per night (Sunday-Thursday).
The basics
Region: Wirksworth, Derbyshire
Cost (from): £95 per night
Sleeps: 2 per room
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 1 ensuite per room
Minimum stay: 1 night Sun-Thurs 2 nights Fri-Sat
Property ref: 221
Facilities
Rooms sleep 2, double bedroom, en-suite shower, towels included, colour TV, hairdryer, alarm clock/radio, complimentary beverages, central heating, breakfast included.
Local Activities
Peak District, golfing, fishing, cycling, hiking, caves, heritage railways, kayaking, canoeing, sailing windsurfing, horse riding, climbing, abseiling, hot-air ballooning.
At a glance
- B&B accommodation in a fully renovated and restored former magistrate's house and police station in the Derbyshire Dales. Wi-Fi enabled with four double bedrooms.
- Easily accessible by road from the A6, there is a free private car park available for guests.
- Extensive breakfast and evening menus are available. Evening meals must be ordered at least 24 hours in advance.
- Wide-ranging entertainment selections, restaurants and bars are within easy walking distance.
- Close to the Peak District, the Old Lockup is a perfect base for exploring the Derbyshire Dales.
Tags
You may also be interested in:

Cambridge Lodge Water Tank
England / Wensley, Derbyshire
An historic water tank, transformed into unique, luxurious and sociable accommodation in the heart of the picturesque Peak District. You may be surprised that a former water tank originally buil...
Hoe Grange Holidays
England / Matlock, Derbyshire
Eco-friendly, accessible, self-catering log cabins, camping pods and a gypsy caravan on a working farm in the Peak District. Escape to the Peak District with a stay at Hoe Grange Holid...
Mulino Pods
England / Ashbourne, Derbyshire
Eco-powered exclusive rural valley glamping - complete with friendly neighbourhood sheep! - in the scenic Peak District. Always wanted to try glamping, but worried it might be a li...Company Info
A hand-picked directory featuring the most unusual and exciting holiday accommodation in the UK and worldwide.
Host Unusual Limited
Registered office:
Space 282
282 Leigh Road
Leigh-on-Sea
Essex
SS9 1BW
Useful Info
Covid-19 update
Host Unusual works with associate sites and may earn commission when you book via certain property links.
Awards / Affiliations