Hathersage

Hathersage has exciting history to tell. The grave of Robin Hood’s lieutenant, Little John, who was said to be born in Hathersage, can be found by the south door of St Michael’s church. Charlotte Bronte, who had close connections with the village, is thought to have based Thornfield Hall in Jayne Eyre on North Lees Hall. And the village’s important manufacturing history – of millstones, needles and pins – continues to be a part of the village.

The longest river in Derbyshire, the river Derwent, passes through Hathersage at Leadmill, under a charming bridge and old country inn. The village makes the perfect base for walkers and rock-climbers as it is overlooked by moorland and a row of gritstone edges, of which the largest is Stanage Edge. Other challenging climbs include Higgar Tor and Carl Wark, an ancient hill fort that has so far defied archaeologists’ attempts to date it. The modern village has plenty to accommodate and entertain visitors, with a range of pubs, hotels and shops.