BONNIE PRINCE CHARLES AND HIS MARCH THROUGH DERBYSHIRE IN 1745 - 20 MILES

ABOUT THE WALK -

Bonnie Prince Charlie is rather the odd one out in my “Famous Derbyshire People” series, for he is not Derbyshire born nor lived in the county for a long time. However, his brief visit was a momentous occasion. His attempt to regain the English crown for the Stuart's, more than 250 years ago. He has become a legend and recalled in song. His attempt certainly put Derby on the map and has left the town (city) with a fascinating legacy.

This brief walk book describes his journey to Derby in December 1745, where he turned round back to Scotland and ultimate defeat. Many of the places he stayed at and saw remain today. Derby has a statue to him in Full Street, close to where he stayed and Derby Museum has a room dedicated to him, with the oak panelling from the room in Exeter House he used.

To celebrate the 250th. anniversary of the “Jacobite Rebellion of 1745”, in 1995, a waymarked route from Ashbourne to Derby has been made. It doesn’t follow his exact route but does include several important places associated with him. It is a delightful 20 mile walk. To complete his story I have included a short walk along the Derby Canal to Swarkestone Bridge, where some of his troops secured the bridge for their onward route towards London.

His story leaves one wondering what might have been and I hope you venture out into Derbyshire and explore some of the places associated with him.

Happy walking § exploring!
John N. Merrill

A5 Walk guide, with history notes, walking instructions and ammenities guide. Placed in a pastic wrap around cover and signed by John Merrill.

Certificate available and  names added to me Walkers Roll of Honour page.