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Leek
Leek is a charming and historic market town situated atop the River Churnet in Staffordshire. It is one of the oldest recorded centres of population in Staffordshire and was granted a royal charter in 1214. Leek is the centre of administration for the modern Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, and since 1207 a weekly market and annual fair have been held in Leek itself. Leek is also famous for its cattle market; this has been a feature of the town for hundreds of years reflecting how vital farming is to the local community, and throughout the industrial revolution Leek was famous for the production of textiles and woollen goods. Although this industry has declined somewhat throughout the course of the 20th century there are still a large number of clothing and dyeing trades and businesses located in the town, and the evidence of Leeks history can be seen all around if one examines the old mills from the heyday of textile manufacturing.
With close links to Alton Towers this is the perfect place to stay if you are visiting the theme park, Alton Towers are seen as one of the main employers in Leek. Leek is a town full of interesting geography and history that draw academics and tourists from the four corners of the United Kingdom; interestingly the vast majority of the town is situated above 600 feet and is completely surrounded by the Staffordshire Moorlands. Leek also lies conveniently at the foot of the Peak District National Park, perfect for a day out with the whole family. A glance around the town itself reveals many hidden treasures that lie off the tourist trail; many Victorian structures remain, and there are a number of even older buildings dotted around Leek. Many of the architecture of the area was designed by William Sugden after he came to the locale in 1849.
The town is also famous for the historic residents who used to live here, such as James Brindley (a famous 18th century canal engineer and something of a pioneer) and William Morris (the founder of the Arts and Crafts movement). Rudyard Lake is a popular tourist attraction just outside of Leek itself, this picturesque location is also home to the Rudyard Lake Steam Railway that runs along the eastern banks.
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