Flash, village in Staffordshire, United Kingdom
Flash is a small village in Staffordshire located at 460 meters (1,500 feet) on the southern slope of Axe Edge Moor. Buildings spread along narrow lanes, many are old farmhouses combining living and animal spaces, surrounded by open moorland and rocky outcrops that define the harsh landscape.
Coal mining began here in the 1400s, with farmers and craftspeople settling to work the land. The village's isolation made it a refuge for illegal activities in the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly counterfeiting, which became so common it gave the place its criminal reputation.
The name Flash comes from counterfeit money once made here, called 'Flash coins'. The village served as a gathering place for markets and fairs where farmers traded livestock, while the Methodist chapel anchored community life and remains a central landmark.
The village is accessible by car via the A53 near Buxton and Leek with parking by the pub and along the road. Public buses run from Buxton and Macclesfield, the nearest train station is at Buxton with connections to Manchester, and winter weather can block access so check conditions before visiting.
Flash claims to be Britain's highest village with buildings above 450 meters, and the New Inn claims to be the country's highest pub. Three Shires Head where three county borders meet nearby was a legendary refuge for outlaws because officials from different shires held no power at the crossing point.
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