The tradition of well dressing

Well dressing is one of the best known, most popular and colourful customs in Derbyshire and the Peak District. Well dressing dates back hundreds of years, and though there have been religious associations, the true origins remain unknown.

Well dressing is celebrated in more than sixty towns and villages throughout Derbyshire and the Peak District. Each village taking part in this custom has its own version and designs worked out months beforehand which are not revealed until the last possible moment.

Today’s wells are decorated with flower petals, berries, moss, cones and seeds, which are pressed into clay held in a wooden framework. It is a difficult task combining hard work and artistic dexterity. The clay is cleansed of all impurities, and the frames are then soaked to prevent the clay from drying out. The frames often have rows of protruding nails which help to prevent the damp clay from falling away when the frames are standing.

For more information about Derbyshire well dressings, see http://welldressing.com/calendar.php

... or the Derbyshire guide, http://www.derbyshireguide.co.uk

... or the Peak District & Derbyshire guide www.visitpeakdistrict.com/welldressing

Heath Well Dressings & Scarecrow competition

The Heath well dressing is held in July.

During well dressing week, as an added attraction, it has become a tradition for households in the village to display home-made scarecrows in their gardens for the entertainment of visitors and their families. A flower festival is also held in All Saint's Church at the same time.

This year's events (2023) will be held on Saturday 15 July to Saturday 22 July inclusive.