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 Known as the 'Capital of the Moorlands' this is an attractive textile centre on the bands of the River Churnet. It was here that French Huguenots settled, after fleeing from religious oppression and established the silk industry that thrived due to the abundance of soft water coming off the nearby moorland.
Until the 19th century this was a domestic industry with the workshops on the top storeys of the houses; many examples of these 'top shops' have survived to this day.
Leek also became an important dyeing town particularly after the death of Prince Albert when 'Raven Black' was popularised by Queen Victoria who remained in mourning for her beloved husband for many years.
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