Well Dressing in Derbyshire

The dressing of wells is peculiar to Derbyshire and surrounding areas. It dates back to pagan times and in spite of attempts by the early Christian church to ban it it remains as popular today as ever. Well dressing was quite simply an expression of gratitude by country folk for the purity of their water from local springs and wells. To convey their thanks they decorated their wells with beautiful designs and pictures made from flower petals, leaves and berries. These designs, painstakingly put into place, often reflected and portrayed different aspects of local and country life. It is an art form that has been handed down from generation to generation.

The process involves soaking a wooden board in water and then covering it with wet clay. The board is then laid flat and the dressers begin their work by pressing flower petals, berries, seeds, small leaves etc into the clay. It is a very delicate process rather like creating a tapestry. When completed, the board is stood upright and is then placed against the well or other firm object.

The tradition continues to this day and villages throughout Derbyshire carry out the well dressing in the spring and summer months.

The well dressings, often beautifully spectacular, are a sight to behold and a visit is to be strongly recommended. Just click on the site listed below for details of where and when the well dressings are taking place.

http://www.peakleisure.co.uk/well_dressing_in_derbyshire.htm