The rolling hills of Derbyshire are a stone’s throw away, and it’s easy to take for granted the charm they possess. One such overlooked gem is a village brimming with pubs and walking trails.

Hathersage, nestled in the Hope Valley, is renowned for its ties to nature and often serves as a haven for walkers seeking a break from their outdoor adventures. 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 may surprise many is the village’s unique literary connections, particularly to the esteemed Brontë sisters. It’s thought that Charlotte Brontë’s fondness for Hathersage, following her visit in 1845, inspired the settings and characters in her celebrated novel, Jane Eyre.

Beyond its fascinating history, the village boasts an array of traditional pubs, each exuding the cosy atmosphere you’d expect from a quintessentially British village. One such establishment is the Bank House, which features a ski après-themed area outdoors, creating the illusion of enjoying a drink by a warm fire in the Alps, all under a meticulously crafted tipi.

One recent guest took to TripAdvisor to recount their visit, stating: “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 throughout this charming village include Millstone Country Inn, The George, The Fox House and The Plough Inn.

Beyond sampling delicious pub fare, visitors can venture beyond the village boundaries to explore nearby picturesque walking routes, which prove particularly popular amongst keen ramblers and cycling enthusiasts.

For those content to potter about Hathersage itself, particularly on sunnier days when the outdoor swimming pool beckons, there’s little incentive to venture elsewhere.

Indeed, this aquatic gem has been serving the community since the 1930s, offering families a splendid outdoor pursuit in its heated 100ft pool, dramatically framed by verdant rolling hills.

Another satisfied visitor shared their thoughts on TripAdvisor, writing: “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.”

The village offers three popular walks of moderate difficulty for those who enjoy a leisurely stroll. One such route is the Hathersage Stepping Stones circular, a 2.9-mile journey along the River Derwent that typically takes about an hour.

Two other nearby trails include the Fairy Woods walk, which can be completed in approximately 30–45 minutes, and the Derwent Valley walk, the longest of the trio. This latter path involves a 2.9-mile, moderate trek through captivating woodlands, taking up to two hours.

For more seasoned walkers seeking a substantial day out, the village’s proximity to the Peak District’s renowned Win Hill is ideal.

Many choose to start their journey from the Heatherdene car park, a mere eight-minute drive from the village, before embarking on the climb that provides panoramic views of the Peak District. These routes can last up to five hours, making for a truly immersive hiking experience.