The Derbyshire village is home to the UK’s only six-sailed stone tower windmill and three traditional pubs, making it an ideal countryside destination
The village is home to a major piece of British history (Image: Amy Hope)
Nestled peacefully between Ripley and Belper lies a delightful village offering far more than initially apparent for a perfect day out.
Heage is most famous for its windmill, but attracts plenty of visitors to its classic pubs, located within half an hour of Derby city centre. It’s a perfect location for an afternoon wander, with several opportunities to stop off for a pint or some hearty pub fare.
The distinctive name originates from the Anglo-Saxon term ‘Heegge’, meaning high or lofty, reflecting its agricultural heritage. The village is divided into two parts, Heage and Nether Heage, though neither has a traditional ‘centre’ and largely comprises houses dotted along country lanes, with the windmill standing peacefully on the outskirts.
Windmill
At the village’s core stands its windmill, remarkable not only for its construction, which commenced in 1791, but also for its six-sailed stone tower. It’s the sole remaining windmill of its type in the whole country and attracts visitors eager to witness this historic landmark.
The magnificent mill operated right through until 1919, when damage necessitated extensive restoration work. Each sail reportedly weighs one tonne, whilst the tower itself is constructed from robust local sandstone.
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In 1965, it finally received ‘listed status’ and remains carefully maintained, having undergone significant structural beam repairs in 2003. A recent visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor: “Brilliant visit to Heage Windmill; learnt such a lot and got to have a go with the sails!
“The team here has a fabulous knowledge of what it was like being ‘Windy Miller’ back in the day, and we even came away with some flour from the actual mill. Cannot recommend highly enough.”
Another guest commented: “This really is a wonderful place to visit. Beautifully preserved and so well looked after. The very kind people running the mill were so kind to watch our dogs while we had the pleasure of such a great tour and demonstration.”
Pubs
The village of Heage boasts three pubs – The Eagle Tavern, The Black Boy and The Spanker Inn, all within easy walking distance. Nestled in the heart of Heage, between the other two, is the Black Boy, which one patron described as being “a lovely place.”
They commented: “Locals, visitors, ramblers and even dogs – just as a pub should be! The food was lovely and very fresh. Would recommend.”
Others enjoy drinking pints at the Spanker Inn, a “brilliant little pub” beloved by locals, which is due to welcome new owners. One diner shared: “We stayed nearby on holiday. We visit this area about twice a year and always go to the Spanker for a meal.
“We are never disappointed. Plenty of choice on the menu, good prices and good food. Good atmosphere and service.”
For a vibrant ambience featuring regular live music and an authentic village atmosphere, the Eagle Tavern serves as a community focal point. Quiz nights, special events and live sports screenings attract visitors from throughout the surrounding area seeking quality entertainment alongside quality ale.
Guests have praised it as a “warm and welcoming pub” boasting a “lovely” outdoor seating space perfect for sunny days. When visiting the windmill, it’s tempting to hop between these charming local establishments.
Morley Park
Nestled within Heage village is Morley Park, a site of considerable historical importance, having once been among seven Royal parks within the Duffield Frith. This extensive forest served as an enclosed hunting and grazing ground under Royal ownership.
Throughout the industrial revolution, it transformed into a significant ironworks location, featuring blast furnaces now designated as Grade II listed structures. The two striking stone furnaces still tower at approximately 40 feet following restoration work in 1986, and can be located near the A38.