Well dressing season

By the Just Derbyshire Dating editors · Checked 8 November 2026 · 2 min read

In shortWell dressings are pictures made by hand from petals, seeds, leaves and moss pressed into clay on wooden boards, then set up over wells and springs. You can see them in most Peak District and Derbyshire towns and villages between May and September. Each one usually lasts about a week.

Key facts

Season	May to September
Towns and villages taking part	More than 80
How long each display lasts	About a week
What they are made from	Clay, petals, seeds, leaves and moss

Well dressing is a tradition found only in the Peak District and Derbyshire. Its origins are uncertain, but it is thought to give thanks for fresh water springs. Following the dressings from village to village is a lovely way to spend a summer date.

Plan a well dressing day out

More than 80 towns and villages hold well dressings between May and September, and each display lasts around a week before the clay dries and cracks. In 2026, Over Haddon's ran from 20 to 28 June. Check the Visit Peak District listings for next year's dates.

Source: Visit Peak District: Well dressings, checked 9 November 2026

Watch the boards being made in Ashford in the Water

In 2026 Ashford in the Water had six well dressings on show from 30 May to 7 June, with a blessing at Holy Trinity Church. Before that, people could watch the clay go into the boards at Sheepwash Bridge and the petalling at the War Memorial Institute. Seeing the work up close gives you plenty to talk about.

Source: Visit Peak District: Ashford in the Water well dressing, checked 9 November 2026

Well dressings in Derby Arboretum

You do not have to go far into the hills. In 2026 Derby Arboretum planned up to five well dressings, with Wells in the Making open to watch during the day from 22 to 26 June and a blessing on 28 June. It is an easy city date with a walk in the park.

Source: Visit Peak District: Derby Arboretum well dressing, checked 9 November 2026

Questions

What is a well dressing?

A large picture made from natural things like petals, seeds and moss pressed into clay on a wooden board, set up over a well or spring.

When is the best time to see them?

May to September. Each village has its own week, so check the listings and plan a route.

Can we watch them being made?

Often, yes. Some villages, like Ashford in the Water, open the making sessions for people to watch.