The Duke at Burbage is particularly well placed for exploring the countryside on the western side of Buxton. Burbage sits away from the busy centre of the spa town, with woodland, moorland and some excellent walking country all within easy reach. For anyone planning a day on foot, the pub fits very naturally at the beginning or end of an exploration of this side of Buxton.

One of the closest places to discover is Poole's Cavern and Buxton Country Park. From the woods surrounding the cavern you can continue uphill through Grin Low to Solomon's Temple, the distinctive hilltop tower overlooking Buxton. The climb is rewarded with wide views across the town and towards the surrounding Peak District hills.

For a much longer outing, our Buxton Circular Walk to Errwood Reservoir starts nearby at Grin Low and heads west into a very different landscape. This nine-mile route crosses open moorland before reaching the beautiful Goyt Valley and Errwood Reservoir, returning via old tracks and sections of former railway. It's a great example of just how quickly the landscape changes once you leave Buxton behind.

The Goyt Valley is also worth making a destination in its own right. Reservoirs, moorland tracks and higher viewpoints provide plenty of options for walkers, while those wanting to explore further can head towards Shining Tor, the highest point in Cheshire and one of the best-known summits on this western edge of the Peak District.

Don't overlook Buxton itself either. From Burbage it's easy to combine time in the countryside with a visit to the historic spa town, where the Pavilion Gardens, Crescent and Buxton Opera House provide a complete contrast to the moors and reservoirs just a few miles away.

The Duke therefore works especially well as part of a day that mixes walking with exploring. Choose anything from a relatively short wander around Grin Low and Solomon's Temple to a much bigger day towards the Goyt Valley, then return to Burbage afterwards.