This village tucked away Derbyshire is often overlooked by UK holidaymakers, despite its impressive offering of traditional pubs, scenic walks and a unique 1930s heated outdoor pool
With the picturesque Derbyshire hills practically on our doorstep, it’s easy to overlook their charm, and this village is one of many gems that often go unnoticed – despite its impressive array of pubs and walking trails.
Hathersage, nestled in the Hope Valley, is renowned for its ties to the great outdoors and often serves as a haven for walkers seeking respite between hikes and explorations. Many choose to stay or camp in and around the village during their weekend escapes, immersing themselves in the beauty of Derbyshire‘s countryside.
What many may not know is the village’s unique literary connections, particularly to the celebrated Brontë sisters. It’s believed that Charlotte Brontë’s affection for the village, sparked by her visit in 1845, inspired the settings and characters in her acclaimed novel, Jane Eyre.
Beyond its fascinating history, the village boasts a selection of traditional pubs, each offering the cosy atmosphere you’d expect from a quintessentially British village. One such spot is the Bank House, which even features an après-ski themed outdoor area, allowing patrons to enjoy their drinks by warm fires under a carefully constructed tipi, evoking the feeling of being in the Alps.
A recent guest described their visit on TripAdvisor, saying: “Popped in to the Apres Ski area for a spot of lunch and had a wonderful time. It was beautifully decorated with skiing and Xmas decorations. The roaring log fire was very welcome on a wet and windy day. The staff were all lovely, and the food was excellent. Will definitely be back.”
Additional watering holes dotted around the quaint village include Millstone Country Inn, The George, The Fox House and The Plough Inn. Beyond enjoying hearty pub fare, visitors can venture beyond the village boundaries to explore picturesque walking routes that prove particularly popular amongst keen ramblers and cyclists.
For those content to wander around Hathersage itself, particularly on bright days when the outdoor swimming pool beckons, there’s little incentive to venture elsewhere. The lido has been welcoming swimmers since the 1930s, offering families a splendid outdoor attraction with its heated 100ft pool, dramatically framed by verdant rolling hills.
One enthusiastic swimmer shared their thoughts on TripAdvisor, saying: “Fabulous facility, staff are friendly, the water is a treat to swim in – especially in the mornings with steam above the water. I simply love it; I drive over the hills to get there as my Friday morning pre-work treat. Everything there is carried out to the best level.”
Three popular walks of moderate difficulty are available around the village. This includes a 2.9-mile route along the River Derwent, known as the Hathersage Stepping Stones circular, which takes approximately one hour. Two other nearby walks include the Fairy Woods walk, which takes about 30–45 minutes, and the Derwent Valley walk, the longest of the three. The latter is a 2.9-mile, moderate route that can take up to two hours as you meander through captivating woodlands.
For those who are keen hikers seeking a full day’s adventure, the village is conveniently situated a short drive from the Peak District’s renowned Win Hill. Many opt to start from the Heatherdene car park, just an eight-minute drive from the village, and commence the climb that offers panoramic views of the Peak District, with routes that can last up to five hours or so.