In 1862 Beeley was described as a township, chapelry and village, on the east bank of the Derwent, 4½ miles E.S.E. from Bakewell with 420 inhabitants.

The Duke of Devonshire is lord of the manor and principal owner; but Robert Arkwright, Esq., has also an estate here. The Church (St. Anne) is an ancient structure, with nave, chancel, side aisles, and low tower with three bells.