Discover the gripping story of Sir John Gell, the powerful Parliamentarian who ruled the High Peak through fear, raids and revenge.

Celebrating Heritage Open Days 2026, BCA presents "The Tyrant of Derby: Sir John Gell and the Plunder of the High Peak" -A Talk by Simon Fussell, 15th September 6 pm to 7.30 pm

When the English Civil War broke out in 1642, the rugged terrain of the High Peak turned into a fractured battleground. However, for Buxton and its neighbouring towns, the greatest danger didn't come from a royal army but rather from their own fellow residents.

Enter Sir John Gell: a Parliamentarian General, a lead-mining tycoon, and widely considered the wealthiest man in Derbyshire. With military power at his disposal, Gell spent the 1640s treating the Peak District as his private treasure trove, supply depot, and stage for personal vendettas. He conducted midnight cavalry raids to snatch crucial lead ore and shockingly desecrated his rivals' family tombs. Gell ruled the region with an iron grip that instilled fear in locals and frustrated his own commanders.

In this captivating 50-minute talk, we delve into the gritty realities of the Civil War, peeling away the grand myths to reveal a local tale filled with greed, occupation, and the struggle for political survival.

Venue: Poole's Cavern Visitor Centre (Cafe at the Cavern)

Parking: Parking is pay & display (Free for Blue Badge holders and BCA Oak Members)

Time: The Cafe will be open for the purchase of drinks and snacks from 5:30pm, the talk starts at 6pm

Cost: FREE - This is a free event offered as part of the 2026 Heritage Open Days Festival

Booking: Tickets must be reserved on eventbrite.

Sir John Gell. Image credits to Derbyshire Records Office.

Description supplied by the event organiser.