Midhopestone: A Glimpse into History and Heritage

Midhopestones, historically known as Nether Midhope, is a village located to the northwest of Stocksbridge. The village, along with the nearby hamlet of Upper Midhope, has long been collectively referred to as Midhope. Situated in the valley of the Little Don River, Midhopestones lies approximately 10.9 miles (17.5 km) from Sheffield city centre and is positioned near the northwestern edge of the city boundary, nestled between Underbank and Midhope Reservoirs.

Historical Origins and Early Settlement

The name "Midhopestones" is believed to derive from the Old English words mid (middle) and hop (enclosed or dry place), with the suffix stones likely referencing stepping stones in the river, now submerged by the Underbank Reservoir. The village, which was first recorded in 1227, has a deep-rooted history stretching back to the 12th century. It is thought that Midhopestones had its own manor and lord during the medieval period, with a manorial chapel dedicated to St. James, which was later converted into a granary in 1368. The original church was replaced with a new structure, which was rebuilt in 1705, though its origins can be traced back to the 14th century.

Notable Historic Buildings and Landmarks

Midhopestones and its surrounding area are home to numerous historic and listed buildings, many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. These include gritstone houses, barns, and other structures, reflecting the village's agricultural heritage. Among these notable buildings are:

• Birks Hall and Manor Farm: Historic farmsteads that contribute to the village’s agricultural legacy.

• Club Inn: A well-known public house, originally a farmhouse from the late 18th century, which became a social centre for the village in the late 19th century. The inn, later renamed Ye Olde Mustard Pot in 2002, remains a key landmark in the village.

• Judd Inn: Another historical public house in the area that has served as a gathering place for locals and travelers alike.

• Lawson Farm: A further example of the area’s agricultural heritage, with its historical buildings adding to the charm of the village.

Midhopestones is also home to Stonecroft Cottage, a house and barn with an old forge on Miller Lane, and The Oaks on Oaks Lane, as well as a cowhouse. These structures are emblematic of the village’s rural character and historical significance.

Industrial Development and Infrastructure

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Midhopestones experienced notable growth. Fields in the area were enclosed in the late 17th century, and a school was established in 1732. The village’s economic and social development was further spurred by the construction of the Mortimer Road in the late 18th century, a toll road built around 1771 that connected Penistone to Grindleford, passing through Midhope.

The Midhope Pottery was established in 1720, producing household ware until its closure in 1845, as industrialized production in nearby towns overtook local manufacturing.

In 1778, a new Midhopestones Bridge was constructed to replace an older bridge that had been destroyed in floods. This bridge remains a significant landmark today. The early 19th century saw further changes, including the construction of the Manchester Road (now the A616), which improved regional connectivity, and extensive field enclosure, reshaping the valley’s landscape.

The Underbank Reservoir and 20th Century Changes

One of the most significant developments in Midhopestones’ history occurred in 1919 when the Underbank Reservoir was constructed by Barnsley Corporation. This development led to the loss of several houses, the original river stepping stones, and part of the Midhope pottery site. The reservoir remains a key feature of the village’s landscape.

Conservation and Preservation

Midhopestones has retained much of its historical charm and is home to a wealth of architectural heritage. In recognition of its historical and archaeological importance, the village and its surrounding area were designated as a conservation area by Sheffield City Council in 1976. This status has helped preserve the village’s distinctive character and ensures that its historical structures remain a vital part of the local landscape.

We invite you to explore the history through the materials provided and discover more about the lasting legacy.