Wirksworth Great Barmote Court

Where: Wirksworth, Derbyshire at the Moot Hall on Chapel Street
When: 3rd Wednesday in April
Time: 12 noon

 

Wirksworth in Derbyshire is the setting for the last remaining Great Barmote Court; these courts were set up in the twelfth century to regulate the lead-mining industry and the survivor may well be the oldest industrial court in the UK. Nowadays the jurisdiction of the court is more limited than in its heyday, but still regulations are upheld and fees collected. The official Barmaster and  Steward are assisted by twelve jurors. Attendees are provided with bread & cheese and beer as well as clay pipes and tobacco, before the proceedings get underway. Though it is essentially a private court, the public are welcome to view proceedings.

Helpful Hints

It’s usually held on the third Wednesday in April but occasionally it varies to another Wednesday in the month. In 2024 it was on Wednesday April 17th- 2025 date is yet to be announced is likely to be Wednesday 16th.

Photography isn’t permitted during the court session for legal reasons, but a quick photo opportunity follows the end of court proceedings.

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