Formerly a centuries old coaching inn, the Best Western George has been fully refurbished, whilst retaining its old character and many original features. Situated in the heart of the Peak District but within easy reach of Sheffield. Friendly and relaxed atmosphere with the award-winning Georges Restaurant. featuring Ben Handley's imaginative use of entirely fresh (and much local) produce. Chatsworth House within 15 minutes drive.

Recently opened at the George (March 04) is a new facility for the guests - The Smallest Hotel Library in the World!! (probably!) Occupying a small 'turret' room off the lounge, big enough for one chair plus a desk, and books of course, you can while away the hours with your favourite tipple and a good book. If you have seen smaller, we would like to know where!!

History

The George as it was originally known is believed to have been first built in the fouteenth or fifteenth century. At that time it would have been an alehouse serving the packhorse trains trudging between the quarries of Castleton and the foundries of Sheffield. They deposited the metal wrought in Sheffield to be made into buttons and needles at England's first needle factory in Hathersage. Traffic between there and Sheffield became such that in the 1700's a turnpike had to be built, and it was around that time that 'The George' came to be called an 'Inn'.

The first recordeed owner of the George was the Duke of Devonshire, who sold it to one James Eyre in 1839; in 1841 it was aquired by James Morton, who must have developed his hostelry significantly, for a writer of the day appears to have been the first to refer to it as an 'Hotel'. Perhaps as a consequence of that another writer, the since acclaimed Charlotte Bronte, whilst visiting friends in Hathersage vicarage became a familiar patron at the George.

Indeed she was evidently so enchanted by Hathersage that she used it and its characters as models for one of her books, Jane Eyre. Charlotte Bronte based the name of her heroine Jane on the Eyre family who previously owned the George, and set her story in Hathersage, renaming in Morton after James Mortonthe George Hotel's Landlord. Coincidently but more recently, the present owner of the George, Eric Marsh, a tenant of the Duke of Devonshire's estate appeared in the 1995 film Jane Eyre shot on location in the Peak District.

A succession of individual proprietors operated the George until 1876, when local Sheffield brewery Tennants acquired it (for £700), and it was held by them and their parent company Whitbreads until it was purchased by the present owners in 1996. Early in 1997 the entire hotel was completely renovated, whilst its original character was preserved by tasteful retaining of stone walls, oak beams, open fires and antique furniture.


Accommodation

19 Bedrooms, 11 Double Rooms, 3 Single Beds, 3 Twin Beds, 1 Family Rooms.

All bedrooms feature en suite private bathroom with shower, lounging area, study desk, computer points,( many have original paintings), remote control television, direct dial telephone, clock radio, trouser press and beverage facility. Superior rooms are generally larger rooms with robes, minibars, DVDs and extra toiletries.

Restaurant

Our acclaimed Georges' Restaurant offers English and European cuisine, using only the freshest of local produce, in relaxed surroundings and looked after by friendly and attentive staff. We offer two self-contained function rooms for up to 20 and 80 guests in the Courtyard Suite, ensuring individual attention for the conference organizer.

George's has an up to date feel, with cool colours, wooden flooring and feature lighting. This more contemporary approach complements completely Chef Ben Handley's approach to his cooking - modern in style, using fresh ideas and only the freshest of ingredients, presenting quality and flair with the minimum of fuss.

Ben returned to the George in October 2002 after an absence of 18 months. Firmly back at the helm and maintaining the coveted 2 AA Rosette award for dining, which he won before his departure, Ben has quickly re-established his local following for his exciting, innovative food. Ben Handley has also been accepted as a Master Chef of Great Britain.

Meetings

The Courtyard Suite offers two dedicated meeting rooms located around our quiet courtyard, ensuring undisturbed facilities. Dedicated staff ensure efficient service and attention to detail. Excellent two rosette food to meet your needs. Four Poster bed is available.

Wedding Facilities

In the Courtyard Suite we can cater for a maximum of 60 persons seated and 100 for an informal evening reception. This comprises the Courtyard Suite and Boardroom, with it’s own Bar, or Courtyard Patio (weather permitting) for your reception drinks. In any event the Courtyard is completely private and is not overlooked. There is no room hire charge for your reception.

The layout can vary to suit your requirements. All our tables are oblong although round tables can be hired and prices are available on request. Round tables are only available for a maximum of 50 persons.


We can offer a wide range of menus to choose from, but should you have a specific dish you would like, Chef Ben Handley is available to discuss this and help if he can.

Experience tells us that the quality of food and levels of service we aim to provide can only be achieved when a set menu, common to all those attending, is chosen. Prices indicated are per person and whilst we do not offer a children's menu, smaller portions of the chosen dishes can be provided.

Civil Ceremonies

We are licensed to hold a civil ceremony here at the George. For up to 45 persons the ceremony can be accommodated in the Boardroom and can take place anytime up to 6.00pm. The Wedding Breakfast will then held in the Courtyard Suite and the drinks reception in the Lounge (although this is not exclusive) or the Courtyard Patio (weather permitting).

The George Hotel is an ideal base for exploring the spectacular Peak District National Park. Chatsworth House is within 15 minutes drive, Castleton and Mam Tor (5 Miles), Eyam (4 miles) and Bakewell (10 miles). In addition, The George is close to the major City of Sheffield (10 miles) and is only 30 miles from Manchester.

Getting There

Airports

Sheffield Airport - 10 miles
Manchester Airport - 25 miles
East midlands Airport - 50 Miles

Train

Hathersage (adjacent) - trains from Sheffield to Manchester Piccadilly

Road

From the M1, Junction 29 take the A617 to Chesterfield and then take the A619 to Baslow. At Baslow follow A623 and then the B6001 to Hathersage.