Worthington is a parish in North West Leicestershire, not far from the towns of Coalville, Melbourne and Ashby-de-la-Zouch. Worthington became a civil parish in December 1866 and includes the villages of Worthington, Newbold Coleorton, Griffydam and parts of Coleorton.
The parish was predominantly rural until the late 19th century, when there was rapid expansion to house workers for nearby collieries and related industries.
Towards the end of the 20th century, many of the local collieries had ceased operating and the parish began to lose its mining identity.
Below we offer snippets of information about the villages within the parish; for more in depth information please take a look at the local history groups’ websites / Facebook pages and the Facilities / Local Clubs & Groups pages on this website.
The grade II listed parish church of St. Matthew’s, in Worthington village, is a beautiful example of a Norman church, dating back to 1200, and is still available for worship today. The parish war memorial can be found inside the church. Contact details for the church can be found on the “Local Facilities” page on this website. The parish has a lock-up, known as The Roundhouse, which dates back to the 19th century. The Roundhouse is an octagonal brick building with octagonal spire and is located on Church Street, Worthington. Visits to see inside this grade II listed monument can be arranged through the parish clerk, but it is usually open at designated times during Hello Heritage month in September each year. Events associated with Hello Heritage month are widely advertised across north west Leicestershire.
The Cloud Trail, part of the national cycle network, starts (or ends) in Worthington village. Popular with local walkers, runners, and cyclists from near and far, this disused railway and canal-side paths connect Derby and Worthington offering stunning views along the way. The trail is managed by Sustrans; for more information about the route visit Derby Canal Path and the Cloud Trail – Sustrans.org.uk
Newbold Coleorton was originally classified as a ’Liberty’ under the Worthington township, and was transformed by industry into the village you see today. New Lount Colliery, Newbold Brick Company and Newbold Pipe Works were notable employers in the parish. For more information about the village history visit Newbold Coleorton Heritage Group website or follow the heritage group on Facebook.
The little settlement of Griffydam is probably best known for the Griffy Well, a natural spring which provided water for the inhabitants until the 1930’s. There are many interesting tales and myths surrounding Griffy Well and if you want to know more, visit the Griffydam History Group’s website – www.griffydamhistory.com Griffy Well is located at the end of a narrow lane in Griffydam and worth a visit (see also “Local Places” page on this website).
Although only a small part of Coleorton lies within the Worthington parish boundary, the village boasts its own share of a rich history and heritage. As with the other villages, it enjoyed a thriving coal mining history until the 20th century, a clue being in the village name (or Cole Orton as it was known). Beaumont Hall, now in private ownership, dominates the skyline and has many historical connections with the village. Visit www.coleortonheritage.org.uk for more information.
Newbold Coleorton, Worthington and Griffydam each have a primary school and the contact details can be found under the “Local Facilities” page on this website. The countryside in and surrounding the parish is well worth exploring. The Ivanhoe Way is a long distance path (circa 36 miles) around north west Leicestershire, and passes through the parish at various points. New Lount Colliery, which closed in 1968, is now a much-loved nature reserve with woodland, ponds and a wide variety of wildlife.
The wider area offers many other visitor attractions. Calke Abbey, Conkers Discovery Centre, Staunton Harold reservoir, Dimminsdale nature reserve, Foremark reservoir, Hough Mill, the Swannington Incline and Snibston Colliery Park to name but a few, are all within a short drive and make for a great day out. Further information about these and other North West Leicestershire local attractions can be found on the “Local Places” page of this website and www.visitleics.com.
The villages in the parish enjoy easy access to major road networks and local towns but retain all the benefits of a semi-rural environment.
Welcome to the parish.