Buxton: The Gateway to the Peak District
As the Gateway to the Peak District, the historic spa town of Buxton should feature in the itinerary of every visitor to this area. It has something for everyone, with stunning Georgian and Victorian architecture, beautiful parks, quirky shops, top-class theatre, and fantastic dining.
For the kids there are caves to wonder at, woodland trails to explore, and thrilling outdoor adventure courses.
Planning a visit? Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from top attractions and dining recommendations to practical tips for making the most of your trip to this historic spa town in the heart of Derbyshire.
Places to See
The Romans settled in Buxton from around 78AD, naming it Aquae Arnemetiae, meaning the Spa of the Goddess of the Grove, and it has been renowned for the healing properties of its spa waters ever since. The town grew in size and influence in the late 18th Century, when it was developed by the 5th Duke of Devonshire as a resort spa in the style of Bath. The graceful Crescent was built in 1780, and echoes the famous Royal Crescent in Bath.
Buxton Mineral Water is still bottled just outside the town and is sold internationally. Its source, St Ann’s Well, is a geothermal spring located close to the Crescent. The water emerges from the ground at a warm 28 degrees Celsius, and members of the public are welcome to drink directly from the well or fill their own bottles there.
Buxton Opera House
Buxton is well known for its beautiful Edwardian Opera House, designed by Frank Matcham in 1903. It has recently been restored after a major refurbishment programme, and its opulent interior is well worth seeing, with magnificent ceiling paintings and gold leaf decoration. The Opera House hosts a great many drama, comedy and music events throughout the year.
Buxton Opera House
Visit www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk for further information.
Devonshire Dome
A further remarkable Buxton landmark is the Devonshire Dome, built in 1789 and designed by local architect Robert Rippon Duke. It is one of the world’s largest unsupported domes with a diameter of 44.2 metres, larger than the Pantheon and St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, or St Paul’s Cathedral in London. The Devonshire Dome is now a campus of the University of Derby.
The Dome also houses a range of facilities including a café and event spaces, making it a popular venue for conferences, weddings and exhibitions throughout the year.
Pavilion Gardens
On a sunny day, head straight for the Pavilion Gardens, an impressive Grade II listed building built in 1871, set in 23 acres of landscaped parkland on the banks of the River Wye.
The Pavilion Gardens houses Buxton’s Visitor Information Centre, as well as a gift shop and café. It also hosts regular craft and art fairs. The parkland includes a large children’s play area, a miniature train, ornamental ponds and a well-stocked tropical greenhouse.
If boutique shopping is more your thing, be sure to visit the Cavendish Arcade, located within the original thermal baths. It has a range of independent shops and lovely cafes, all set in this beautiful historic building dating from 1852.
Eating and Drinking
There is no shortage of brilliant places to eat and drink in Buxton. The town centre offers a wide range of independent cafes, traditional pubs, and restaurants serving everything from light lunches to fine dining.
For a taste of history, the Old Hall Hotel is one of the oldest buildings in Buxton and the oldest hotel in England. The present building dates from 1670, but an earlier building on the same spot was a temporary gaol to Mary, Queen of Scots in 1584, when she was held here by the 6th Earl of Shrewsbury and his wife, Bess of Hardwick.
Today the Old Hall Hotel offers traditional dining overlooking the beautiful Pavilion Gardens, either in the restaurant or the more informal wine bar. Afternoon tea is served daily.
Old Hall Hotel
For menus and opening information, visit www.oldhallhotelbuxton.co.uk.
For a more relaxed vibe, Buxton has several excellent pubs and bars offering craft beers, cocktails and live music. Many establishments in the town centre serve home-cooked, locally-sourced produce, and there are plenty of choices for all tastes and budgets.
Whether you are looking for a quick coffee and cake, a traditional pub lunch, or an elegant evening meal, Buxton’s dining scene has something to offer every visitor.
Out and About Around Buxton
Buxton is situated in a fabulous location and any visitor to the town should also plan to explore the beautiful countryside that surrounds it. Buxton is overlooked by two hills, Grin Low Hill and Corbar Hill. On the top of Grin Low Hill, at 439m high, is a well-known local landmark, a tower known as Solomon’s Temple.
A folly built in 1834 to provide work for the town’s unemployed, it was restored in 1996 and is now open to the public. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the top of the crooked tower for magnificent views over the town.
On the top of Corbar Hill, look out for Corbar Cross, a tall cross given to the town by the Duke of Devonshire to celebrate Holy Year in 1950. The cross is a well-known local landmark and offers equally impressive views across the surrounding countryside.
The woodlands surrounding Buxton, including the famous ‘Ring of Trees’ that encircles the town, offer miles of peaceful walking trails through mature deciduous woodland. These ancient woodlands are home to a wide variety of wildlife and provide a beautiful setting for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike.
Poole’s Cavern
Located a short drive outside the town is Poole’s Cavern, a beautiful show cave formed naturally out of the limestone rock over 2 million years ago. The Cavern is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and recent archaeological explorations have suggested that it was occupied during the Bronze Age.
The Cavern has been officially open to the public since 1853, when the entrance was made accessible and a system of gas lamps was installed.
Thankfully, modern visitors can now marvel at the Cavern’s wonders with the help of LED lighting. The area open to the public extends to around 310 metres in length and includes spectacular rock formations in the many chambers.
Poole’s Cavern is set within the extensive Buxton Country Park. There are numerous country walking trails through the 100 acres of mature deciduous woodland, which link up to Grin Low Hill and Solomon’s Temple.
Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park
For more information about Poole’s Cavern and Country Park, including prices and opening times, visit www.poolescavern.co.uk.
Outdoor Adventures
For those seeking more adventurous activities, Buxton and the surrounding area offer a wealth of options. The nearby woodland trails are perfect for mountain biking, while the gritstone edges and limestone crags provide excellent rock climbing opportunities.
The Buxton Country Park and the wider Peak District landscape offer endless possibilities for walking, cycling, and exploring the great outdoors. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller, there is a trail to suit every ability.
For families, the woodland trails and play areas provide the perfect setting for a day of outdoor fun. The area is also popular with birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with a rich variety of wildlife to discover throughout the year.
Where to Stay in Buxton
Buxton offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From the historic Buxton Crescent Hotel to charming guest houses and B&Bs, there is something for every visitor.
Buxton Crescent Hotel
The Buxton Crescent Hotel is a stunning hotel located in the heart of Buxton. This historic building has been beautifully restored and offers luxurious accommodation in the heart of the town.
Other Accommodation Options
- Traditional guest houses and B&Bs
- Self-catering cottages in the surrounding countryside
- Camping and caravan sites nearby
- Boutique hotels in the town centre
Top Tips for Your Buxton Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the parks and outdoor attractions. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the surrounding woodlands.
- Getting There: Buxton is easily accessible by car via the A6 and A53, and has a railway station with direct trains from Manchester.
- Parking: There are several car parks in the town centre, including the Pavilion Gardens car park.
- Tourist Information: The Visitor Information Centre is located in the Pump Room opposite the Buxton Cresent Hotel.
- Don’t Miss: St Ann’s Well – you can drink the warm spa water directly from the source!
- Explore the Woodlands: The ‘Ring of Trees’ and Buxton Country Park offer miles of beautiful walking trails.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buxton
What is Buxton famous for?
Buxton is famous for its Georgian and Victorian architecture, its natural spa waters, the Opera House, and being known as the “Gateway to the Peak District“.
Is Buxton worth visiting?
Absolutely! Buxton offers a perfect blend of history, culture, outdoor activities, and excellent dining options, making it a great destination for all types of visitors.
What is there to do in Buxton for children?
Children will love Poole’s Cavern, the Pavilion Gardens play area, the miniature train in the park, and exploring the woodland trails in Buxton Country Park.
Where can I try Buxton’s spa water?
You can drink directly from St Ann’s Well, located close to the Crescent in the town centre. The water emerges at a warm 28 degrees Celsius.
How do I get to Buxton?
Buxton is accessible by car via the A6 and A53, and has a railway station with direct connections to Manchester.
Where can I find accommodation in Buxton?
Buxton offers a variety of accommodation options including the Buxton Crescent Hotel, traditional guest houses, B&Bs, self-catering cottages, and camping sites in the surrounding countryside.
What are the best walking routes in Buxton?
The woodlands surrounding Buxton, including the ‘Ring of Trees’, offer beautiful walking trails. Buxton Country Park also provides numerous routes through 100 acres of mature woodland, linking up to Grin Low Hill and Solomon’s Temple.
For more information about visiting the area, explore the official Peak District National Park visiting guide and plan your adventure in this remarkable part of Derbyshire.
ℹ️ Tourist Information
- Buxton Visitor Centre 0 miles
🥾 Nearby Walks
- Buxton Circular to Errwood Reservoir (9 miles) ✨ NEW 1.2 miles
- Shining Tor and Goyt Valley (7 miles) 3.7 miles
- Dragon's Back Walk (3.9 miles) 4.4 miles
- Easy Trig Walk for Kids 4.4 miles
🍺 Local Pubs
- Anglers Rest 5.2 miles
- The Merchant’s Yard 6.1 miles
- The Royal Oak, Hurdlow 6.3 miles
☕ Cafes & Tearooms
- Noonology 0.3 miles
- Poole’s Cavern 0.8 miles
- The Yondermann Cafe 7.8 miles
🏨 Places to Stay
- Best Western Plus Buxton Lee Wood Hotel 0.3 miles
- The Park Apartments, Buxton 0.3 miles
- High Peak Sky 0.3 miles
- Hawthorn Farm 0.6 miles
🏛️ Attractions
- Buxton Opera House & The Pavilion Arts Centre 0.1 miles
- The Buxton Crescent Experience 0.1 miles
- Poole’s Cavern 0.8 miles
- Go Ape! Treetop Adventure 0.9 miles
🎪 Coming Up
Distances are straight-line and approximate. Actual travel distances may vary.
