Leek is the principal town of the Staffordshire Moorlands and the most important centre on the south western edge of the Peak District. It stands on a hill in a large bend in the River Churnet and is locally known as ‘The Queen of the Moorlands’. Once a centre for silk weaving, the town retains many of its fine buildings from this period although its economy has shifted from weaving and back to farming, once the mainstay of the town. A weekly market, including cattle, is held and is popular with visitors and locals alike. Most of the town lies at over 600ft and it is surrounded by the higher Staffordshire Moorlands at the southern end of the Pennines. Nearby are The Roaches, a series of gritstone outcrops, on the tip of the Peak District National Park. Notable visitors include the arts and crafts artist William Morris who experimented with colours at the town’s silk works. If you are looking to combine a visit to the Peak District with some industrial history and shopping then check out the Leek Barn accommodation on offer here.
