Sitting midway between Sheffield and Chesterfield on the A61 that links those larger settlements, Dronfield enjoys the best of both urban and rural worlds. These days it is a major dormitory town for Sheffield, a city that in the last 20 years has changed almost beyond recognition, with vastly improved cultural and economic life and facilities. But Dronfield is also surrounded by green space, with the eastern edge of the Peak District National Park only three miles away. Dronfield has a long and varied history. As with so many Anglo-Saxon settlements in the North it suffered hugely in the early years of William I's reign. In medieval times cloth making developed thanks to the sheep farming in the area, and the ready water supply from the River Drone, one of the feeder streams for the larger Rother some distance away. Mining in various forms was a major employer in the area at different times: coal mining (Coal Aston is one component of the larger town), and in the nearby Peaks lead mining. In the same vein, as it were, somewhat further afield but well worth the effort to visit are the Castleton Caves, where Blue John was mined. In the 19th century metal working became significant, with early iron and steel works, and at one point a large producer of the iron rails that carried the trains around the developing British railway network. The town itself has retained much of its character, with some fascinating buildings to be seen in the centre: the 12th century St John the Baptist church; a 15th century barn; The Green Dragon Inn, once a monastic chantry hall; and parts of The Henry Fanshawe School which date from the late 16th century. Since WWII Dronfield has grown fourfold, its population now being in excess of 21,000. With this considerable market to serve the town has a plentiful supply of pubs and inns. It is well served for restaurants too, some of which have evolved from old pubs themselves. Within easy striking distance of the town the visitor will find Chatsworth House, the medieval Haddon Hall, and much less well known but of great historic significance, Revolution House, where plotting began to overthrow and replace James II.
Places to Stay near Dronfield
The Manor House Hotel (0.44 miles)
Sandpiper Hotel & Restaurant (1.99 miles)
The Sandpiper is a modern, independent hotel, with free secure parking, free Wi-Fi and a great location for both Chesterfield and Sheffield.
Fanshawe's Restaurant offers a superb modern British menu, with an ... More
Nesfield Cottage B+B (2.65 miles)
Nesfield Cottage's idyllic location offers peace and tranquillity away from the noise and bustle of the city. Our cottage is surrounded by the rolling Derbyshire countryside - a paradise ... More
Beauchief Hotel (3.02 miles)
This friendly, traditional hotel set within landscaped grounds is 3 miles (4.8 km) from the centre of Sheffield, and you will receive a warm welcome from the team. The recently refurbished traditional ... More
The Cross Scythes Hotel (3.35 miles)
Click for special and substantially discounted rates from Laterooms
The Cross Scythes is a stylish & sophisticated pub restaurant serving a freshly prepared modern British menu, extensive wine list, and well kept real ales. It has ... More
Travelodge Chesterfield (3.45 miles)
There are loads of reasons our customers choose to stay at Travelodge. Our great value clean and comfortable rooms with en-suite provide everything needed for a good night's sleep and are close to where people ... More | visit website
Olde House (3.47 miles)
The structure of the Olde House Hotel dates back to 1678 when it was built as a farm house; it wasn't until the 1960’s that it was converted into a pub. The pub now consists ... More | visit website
Casa Hotel (3.83 miles)
Premier Inn Chesterfield North (3.83 miles)
The Lockoford Inn (4.00 miles)
The lockoford Inn is situated near ... More | visit website
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