We’re 23 weeks into January (or it certainly feels like it!) and rather than slip into a slumber of winter blues, how about some FREE things you can do locally to perk you up?

1) Wander Around Hathersage Village

If your bank balance won’t stretch to a January shopping spree, how about a little mooch, historical tour on foot or some window shopping?

There’s so much rich architecture and history to be found in Hathersage. The village is warm and welcoming with traditional quaint stone cottages, shops and cafes. Plus, of course, the historical pub and inn The George Hathersage. Since 2021 we’ve been the proud custodians of this 800 year old heritage building of significant historical and literary importance. Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre features The George and it is believed she stayed here when visiting Hathersage, taking inspiration for her world-renowned classic novel.

2) Visit St Michael and All Angels Church

Wander through the traditional wooden gateway, view the impressive tower and wander the historic graveyard at this 14th century church. It’s also supposed to be the resting place of Little John, Robin Hood’s loyal friend. Can you find his gravestone? (Please tread carefully and be mindful of this sensitive resting place for many).

3) Pass By North Lees Hall

North Lees Hall is the inspiration for Thornfield Hall in Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre. This is a private residence so no public tours are available and the hall is situated in private grounds. However, popular walking routes to Stanage Edge do pass this beautiful Elizabethan 16th century tower house which you can view from the public footpath. 

4) Walk to Surprise View

Prepare to be, well, pleasantly surprised! Surprise View is aptly named for the amazing vantage point near Hathersage noted for stunning panormas and breathtaking scenery.

Take in the Hope Valley, see Stanage Edge, look towards Mam Tor and Lose Hill on a clear day and notice Derwent Valley with the reservoirs and woodland stretching into the distance.

It is a dream for photographers and also an excellent spot for stargazing due to low light pollution but care needs to be taken when walking in the dark.

The views are striking in misty conditions with the clouds looking like a soft blanket over the valleys below.

You can walk to Surprise View via a variety of routes or you can park in the designated car park (payable via the RinGo app) just off the A6187 near the viewpoint.

Please note there are no toilet facilities and while the main viewing area is close to the car park, the terrain is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams.

5) Do The Hathersage Heritage Trail

If you’re a literature or film lover, this self guided walk around the village takes in places visited by Charlotte Bronte that appear in Jane Eyre. You could also recreate famous scenes from Pride and Prejudice on location at Stanage Edge. This walk also takes in the grave of Little John in St Michael’s church as mentioned earlier. There’s also a Norman fort and breathtaking moors to explore on the way.

This trail starts and finishes at The George. Find out more and follow the guide here.

Join Us at The George

Many of the above activities start, end or pass us here at The George Hathersage. We are an award-winning country inn, celebrating Peak District produce with our award-winning menus. Join us for breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea or why not just pop in for a post walk pint or coffee?

Winter Offers

This winter, until the end of February, enjoy more at The George Hathersage.

Pizza & Sides Offer – We’ve sliced the price of pizza when you dine or take out every Monday to Thursday. Get two pizzas and two sides for just £25 until the end of February 2025.

Winter Wine Offer – Get selected bottles of red, white and rosè wine for £17.95 Monday to Friday until the end of February 2025.

Sunday Stay Over Offer – We also have a range of boutique bedrooms to maximise your stay in Hathersage from standard doubles to family rooms and a uniquely designed suite. Stay with us on a Sunday this winter and get our Sunday roast, breakfast for two and night away starting from only £109 per couple.