The Maynard, formerly the Maynard Arms, in Grindleford, Peak District, served as a host to international touring cricket teams during the middle of the last century. The hotel, located five minutes from Grindleford train station, features memorabilia from these past teams, including autographs and photographs.
Australia's cricket team first stayed at The Maynard in 1930, seeking respite from Sheffield's industrial noise. A 21-year-old Don Bradman was part of this team. The Australians returned in 1938 for a 10-day stay from June 28 to July 7, playing matches against Derbyshire and Yorkshire.
Bradman's 1948 'Invincibles' team, which completed an entire tour of England without a loss, also stayed at The Maynard. The hotel has named 15 of its rooms after former players, with the bridal suite dedicated to Bradman. Other rooms are named after members of the 1951 South African side, including Hugh Tayfield and Percy Mansell.
While modern cricket teams often opt for city hotels, The Maynard's history includes anecdotes such as Lindsay Hassett reportedly bringing a goat into his room during the 1938 tour. Local historian Alan Jacques recalls collecting autographs from the 1965 South African team at the hotel.