|
|
Print-friendly version
Bretton
Eyam Edge and Bretton Mount serve as a backdrop to Foolow, with the Barrel Inn at Bretton appearing from far and wide as a distant landmark. Built in 1637, the inn was at one time run by the Bennet family, a member of which once having wagered that he could wheel a ton of lead ore in a barrel. He proved his point and won his bet only to collapse and die when he returned home.
A road runs along the ridge top above Foolow and over the summit of Sir William Hill before dropping down to Grindleford. This was at one time known as the Bretton Racecourse where locals reputedly could wager on who had the fastest horse. Local miners of Foolow and Bretton are said to have had a burial club at The Barrel, the idea for which originated in Roman times, and was intended to provide for funeral costs and a wake for the unfortunate deceased. The only problem with the Barrel Funeral Club was that you had to give two weeks notice of death. Consequently no one ever managed to make a claim but the money was evidently saved and used each Christmas for a party!
|
|
