A GUIDE TO SPENDING A BEAUTIFUL WEEKEND IN BUXTON, DERBYSHIRE
Last Updated on 25th July 2024 by Bejal
If you’re looking for an overnight or short mini break, then look no further than spending the weekend in Buxton, Derbyshire.
Buxton is a spa town well known for its location as the bustling heart of the Peak District. The town has also acquired the accolade of the highest market town in England, sitting high at 300 metres above sea level. It’s nestled in the well known Peak District National Park, making it very accessible to the plethora of walking trails in the area.
Buxton is full of history, Victorian and Georgian architecture as well as pretty gardens, tearooms and an array of independent shops as well as lovely cute cafes, restaurants as well as local pubs sourcing delicious local ingredients. It’s pretty easy to fit in so many things to do during your weekend in Buxton in a leisurely fashion.
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Where is Buxton Located?
Buxton is a spa town founded by the Romans dating back to 80 AD and is located in the Borough of High Peak, Derbyshire, England, Buxton is located close to Cheshire to the west and Staffordshire to the south, on the edge of the well known Peak District National Park. The town’s central location makes it the ideal place to spend a relaxing weekend in Buxton.
A Short History for your Weekend in Buxton
Buxton dates back to 80 AD when the Romans built bath houses all over the town and paved the way for pilgrims and other visitors who flocked to the town in search of the health benefits of the warm bubbling light blue waters from the thermal springs which lie under the unmissable, ’crescent’. It’s rumoured that Mary Queen of Scots even visited Buxton in desperation of relieving her rheumatism.
The springs are still pretty prominent today as they are part of a subterranean reservoir, where the water is housed for a number of years before it emerges to the surface and feels a lovely balmy 28 degrees celsius.
Opposite the crescent, St Ann’s Well, is widely known as the ‘place of many miracles’ where locals as well as those visiting Buxton, filling their water bottles as it is actually the same mineral water that is bottled by Nestle and sold on the shelves of shops up and down the UK.
At present Buxton doesn’t offer the old traditional spa treatments but new developments may initiate the town to regain it’s former spa accreditation. ‘The Buxton Crescent’ opened in 2020, which is a billion pound development injected into revitalising the crescent and accommodating The Buxton Crescent Hotel and Ensana Spa with a rooftop pool as well as a new Buxton Experience and Heritage Centre.
The Best Time to Visit Buxton
As with much of England, Buxton has a very typical climate of the UK. Spring and summer time (April-August) in Buxton is lush, green pretty but also draws in hoards of crowds. Avoid school holidays if possible however it’s a popular town and expect to get there early to avoid queues for museums. Winter time (October – March) is cold and windy, even on sunny crisp days be aware that the roads that lead to Buxton are at high risk of snow or even ice due to its altitude. Whether you plan to have a long weekend in Buxton during the summer or winter months, or maybe even the autumn or spring, Buxton is beautiful at any time of the year.
For the latest Buxton weather updates, head to the BBC Weather Site.
How to Get to Buxton
- By Air – The nearest airport to Buxton is Manchester Airport, further particulars can be found here The Skyline Bus no 199 has a number of services running between Manchester Airport and Buxton every 30 minutes during peak times, every hour in off-peak times. The Journey takes around 40-90 minutes. More information available at High Peak Buses. East Midlands Airport and Doncaster Airports are also within close proximity to Buxton also.
- By Train – Rail links from Buxton railway station go to Stockport (45 minutes in length) and Manchester Piccadilly (60 minutes in length). Trains can be expected every 30 minutes during peak times and every hour in off-peak times, with the last train coming in around midnight. More information is available at Northern Rail Services and Trainline.
- By Coach – National Express coaches have great links and routes to most major cities and towns in the UK with multiple stops and changes if routes are indirect. Local coach companies include, Andrew’s of Tideswell, Bentley’s Coaches of Buxton and Golden Green Travel.
- By Bus – The main bus station in Buxton is located on Market Place with main bus routes travelling to Stockport, Glossop, Sheffield, Derby, Bakewell and Macclesfield. Bus timetables can be available from Derby Bus and High Peak Services. If you’re in Buxton for the weekend, do note that some services can be less frequent and always consult timetables.
- By Car – The main roads coming into Buxton are A537 West from Macclesfield, A6 North from Manchester, A5004 North West from Whaley Bridge, A53 South West from Leek, A6 East from Bakewell and A515 South East from Derby
Driving times (moderate traffic and good weather conditions)
- Chesterfield – 45 mins 9closest)
- Stoke-on-Trent – 55mins
- Manchester – 1hr
- Sheffield – 1hr
- Derby – 1hr
Buxton also has some great accessible electric car charging points
- Cavendish Hospital – Manchester Road, SK17 6TE
- The Lanterns, 19 Marlborough Road, SK17 6RD
- Lee Wood Hotel -The Park, SK17 6TQ
- Morrisons – Bakewell Road, SK17 9TB
- Sylvan Car Park – end of Spring Gardens, SK17 6BY
- The Old Manse Guesthouse – 6 Clifton Road, Silverlands, SK17 6QL
- Top Shops – Victoria Park Road, SK17 7PE
- Wheeldon Trees Farm Holiday Cottages – Earl Sterndale, SK17 0AA
Parking in Buxton
Pay and display car parking can be accessed in the town centre near The Square, The Pavilion Gardens, the Market Place and at the end of Spring Gardens. Download a map of parking in Buxton
Be-lavie Tip: Car parks are monitored even if you’re only staying the weekend in Buxton, so ensure you read the parking signs and pay accordingly.
Petrol stations in Buxton
- Morrisons – Bakewell Road (A6)
- Tesco Esso – London Road (A515)
- Rockbay Service Station – Leek Road (A53)
Where to Stay During a Weekend in Buxton
Buxton and it’s surroundings has a fine range of accommodation available to suit all budgets including luxury spa hotels, bed and breakfasts, mid-range inns as well as self-catering cottages and campsites.
Here are a few recommendations…
Ensana Buxton Crescent Health Spa Hotel
Location: On Buxton’s famous Crescent
This five star luxury hotel offering a great concierge service and beautifully appointed rooms is the most exquisite place to stay during a weekend in Buxton. The rooms are in keeping with the splendour of this Georgian building and are decorated in a modern yet classical style with all the latest mod-cons. The hotel is vegan and vegetarian friendly with it’s restaurant serving a range of British cuisine as well as a cooked and continental breakfast being included in room rates.
Guests can choose from a great range of guest rooms including double or twin rooms to the junior or crescent suites with exceptional views facing towards the front of the Crescent. Bathrooms are just as exquisite as the rooms with luxury amenities.
The hotel’s spa also offers a range of relaxing and wellbeing promoting treatments as well as a sauna and hot spring bath. Comprehensive spa and stay packages are available to make your stay that little bit more special.
- Ensana Buxton Crescent Health Spa Hotel. The Crescent. Buxton. Derbyshire. SK17 6BH. Tel. (+44) 01298 808 999
- Website: Ensana Buxton Crescent Health Spa Hotel
- Hotel Style: Luxury
- Price Guide: £££
No.6 The Square
Location: A minutes walk from Buxton Opera and The Crescent.
These beautiful Georgian tea rooms also have four rooms and an apartment, named after their views, located right in the heart of Buxton. Choose from the ground floor apartment, No 7, which is fully self-contained or opt for the light and bright tasteful furnished double rooms, Opera House, Pavilion Gardens, Crescent or Devonshire Dome.
Rooms are cute with en-suite facilities in keeping with the decor. Breakfast can be added as an extra cost and commences around 09:00 in the tearooms on the ground floor. Alternatively there are a number of places in the town you can enjoy a great breakfast.
No 6 on the Square is a great option if you’re looking for a period style charming bed and breakfast with an excellent location and perfect to explore the surrounding Peak District.
- No 6 The Square. 6 The Square. Buxton. Derbyshire. Sk17 6AZ. Tel. 01298 213 541
- Website: No 6 The Square
- Hotel Style: Bed & Breakfast
- Price Range: ££
The Merchant’s Yard, Tideswell Weekend in Buxton
Location: 18 minutes drive time to Buxton (direct buses available too)
If you fancy a stay in a more cute, pretty village environment then this hidden gem in Tideswell is a fantastic option. The Merchants Yard, is a wonderful country two rosette restaurant but has currently five cosy newly appointed rooms to stay in, adjoining the restaurant.
There’s on site parking, hugely welcoming staff and the most cosiest, neutrally decorated double rooms complete with a stunning ensuite and relaxing bath. The Merchant’s yard is all about relaxation and enjoying the surroundings. Bonus points awarded here, rooms come with a small bottle of real milk so you can enjoy your hot drinks and cookies just as you would at home.
Also when you fancy something to eat or drink, the restaurant is a couple of steps away via an adjoining door-just make sure you’ve booked in advance as understandably it’s a very busy spot.
A wonderful breakfast is included from a selection of continental options as well as a cooked to order feast complete with delicious coffees and teas of your choice, juices and even bubbles.
Related Article: A beautiful stay at The Merchant’s Yard, Tideswell
- The Merchants Yard Restaurant & Rooms. St Johns Road. Tideswell. Buxton. Derbyshire. SK17 8NE. Tel. 01298 872 224
- Website: The Merchant’s Yard Restaurant & Rooms
- Hotel Style: Luxury Modern Country Inn/Rooms
- Price Guide: ££
Search For Your Ideal Buxton Hotel Here…
Booking.comThe Best Things to Do During A Weekend in Buxton
Be-lavie Tip: Be aware that spending the weekend in Buxton can be quite busy but this is when the town is at its the most liveliest with lots of outdoor markets and events. It’s best to book as much as you can in advance, especially tours to avoid diappointment.
The Pavilion Gardens Weekend in Buxton
These beautiful Grade II listed gardens and park in the heart of Buxton date back to 1871 and are a great example of Victorian landscaping of open spaces.
The pavilion gardens are set within 23 acres of garden space and definitely has an air of romanticism about it with the bandstand and borders through it along with the ornate stone vases filled with foliage, seasonal flowers and walking paths.
The gardens are home to a large boating lake, children’s play ground as well as a miniature railway. The gardens are open all year around with the main building offering a botanical garden with a fishpond, flower shop, retail area, art gallery, cinema and tea rooms as well as the Octagon Hall which houses events such as fairs and private functions.
- The Pavilion Gardens. St John’s Rd, Buxton SK17 6BE. Tel. 01298 23114
- Website: The Pavilion Gardens
The Buxton Opera House
The 902 seat opera house has been home to hosting live performances since 1903 with the captivating building being designed by Frank Matcham, who also designed the London Palladium.
Buxton opera house was carefully restored back to its former glory in 2001 and is one of the town’s finest examples of Edwardian theatrical architecture. You can pick from a number of live shows at the opera house or opt for a guided tour of the building where you can learn about its history as well as enter the awe-inspiring auditorium.
- The Buxton Opera House. Water St, Buxton SK17 6XN, Tel. 01298 72190.
- Website: The Opera House
Buxton Museum & Art Gallery
History, art and geology fans this is the spot for you and it’s absolutely free!
Explore some of the best collections of limestone fossils, ice age animal bones and mineral collections including Blue John as you step back in time at this wonderful museum.
The museum also has a large collection of historic photographs of Buxton and the surrounding area dating back to 18th-20th century and houses the works of John Webber, William Marlow, Thomas Hearne, Frank Brangwyn, Edgar Chain and Duncan Grant.
- Buxton Museum Art Gallery. Terrace Rd, Buxton SK17 6DA. Tel. 01629 533540
- Website: https://www.derbyshire.gov.uk/leisure/buxton-museum/buxton-museum-and-art-gallery.aspx
Devonshire Dome
The original building of the Grade II listed Devonshire Dome was commissioned back in 1785 upon instruction of the reigning Duke of Devonshire as part of the big plan to promote Buxton as a spa town.
According to history, a part of the building was turned into a hospital in 1858 and in 1881 the rest of the building including the outstanding dome was converted too. At that time it was known as the largest unsupported dome in the world. Rumour has it, it’s still the largest in Europe!
After 1934, there were more extensions added to the building and was re-named as the Devonshire Royal Hospital and in 1948 became a part of what we call today the NHS.
In the year 2000, the hospital closed and was bought by the University of Derby and became home to Buxton & Leek College.
The Devonshire Dome is also home to an award-winning spa where you can indulge in a wide range of treatments to promote wellbeing
- Devonshire Dome. Devonshire Road. Buxton. Derbyshire. Sk17 6RY. Tel. 01298 330 643
- Website: Devonshire Dome
Buxton Crescent Visitor Centre & Heritage Experience.
The Crescent is the most prominent of all the architecture in Buxton and radiates 18th century grandeur and once the epicentre for gatherings for visitors wanting to experience the healing properties of its warm spring water.
This Buxton Heritage Experience charts the story of Buxton through the years including the Crescent, the famous water and the people who visited the town. It’s a guided fully immersive hands on experience including virtual reality. It’s only possible to visit as part of a small group guided tour and purchasing tickets in advance is a must to avoid disappointment. You will learn some incredible stories of how the building was restored and it’s deep rooted history.
- The Heritage Trail starts at The Crescent. Buxton. Derbyshire. SK17 6BH but tickets must be purchased at the Pump Room Visitor Centre as below…
The Pump Room & Buxton Visitor Centre
Right across the road from the crescent, the Buxton Visitor centre is now housed in the former Pump Room. It’s well worth a visit and it’s free to enter with some fascinating displays and great for gifts as well as a ticket counter where you can obtain information about the town as well as tickets for the Buxton Heritage Experience at The crescent.
- The Pump Room, The Crescent, Buxton SK17 6BH. Tel. 01298 214577
- Website: The Pump Room
St. Ann’s Well
St Ann’s Well is located next to the former Pump Rooms has served as a shrine to many who have visited throughout the centuries let alone years. The spot where the Well stands today was once the site of a chapel where pilgrims would pray and offer thanks. It’s curing properties were so well known that it’s said pilgrims hung their cast-off crutches and sticks from it.
Many famous people who visited Buxton drank from the Well including Mary Queen of Scots, who was imprisoned in Chatsworth House, not so far away. She was allowed to bathe in the healing waters, in the presence of guards to help her with her rheumatic pain.
Since the 19th century, the water has been bottled from St Ann’s Well by the Buxton Mineral Water Company. Nestle bought the company in 1992, still bottle the very same water which is pumped two miles down the road at their new bottling plant in Waterswallows.
- St Ann’s Well. The Crescent, Buxton, SK17 6BQ
The Discover Buxton Tram Bus Tour
If you’re a little short of time and want to tick off the best of Buxton sights and history, opt for the Buxton vintage tram tour.
The tour named, ‘The Wonder of the Peak’ drives you through the historic old town where you can tick off Buxton Opera House, The Crescent, Thermal Baths and St Ann’s Well after which you will go past St. John’s Church and to the splendrous Devonshire Dome. Here you alight and meet up with a guide who will lead you through the dome to experience its glorious architecture. You then head on to St Anne’s Church and finally finishing at the Pavilion Gardens.
For further Buxton Tours, head on over to Discover Buxton
St Anne’s Church
Dating back to 1625 St Anne’s Church is a Grade II listed church in the residential area of Buxton. Definitely worth a visit to see its modest exterior and interior if it is open at the time of visiting.
- St. Anne’s Church. 6 Bath Road, Buxton SK17 6HJ. Tel. 01298 77856
- Website: St Anne’s Church
Day Trips & Tours From Buxton
Duke’s Drive Viaduct
This Victorian railway viaduct is built of gritstone and is 176 yards long comprising of 13 arches with a. Span of 36 feet, 94 feet and six inches high. It was built in 1892 as part of the Buxton and High Peak junction Railway and is still in use today.
You can drive through the arches on the road or stop off in the surrounding countryside to capture a glimpse. Alternatively pull into the nearby campsite and caravan park (Lime Tree Park) for a panoramic.
- Duke’s Drive Viaduct. Dukes Drive, Buxton SK17 9NJ
- Distance from Buxton: 6 minutes by car
Poole’s Cavern
One of the most visited attractions in the Peak District has to be Poole’s cavern. The Peak District is well-known for its limestone which was formed 340 million years ago, over the thousands of years that followed, limestone layers were lifted fractured and folded by massive earth movements as the continental plates slowly split apart leading to the landscape we know today as the Peak District.
The limestone was footed over the land, the water carved out another landscape hidden deep underground, producing large caverns with crystal stalactites that have lined the chambers over the millions of years.
You can take a five minutes drive to the Cavern but its possible to walk via the Pavilion Gardens just as visitors have been doing since the 16th century.
The cave reopened in 1976, having 100 electric lights installed inside but now has modern LED lighting which showcases the intricate yet delicate crystal formations with the 300 metre chamber being fully illuminated.
At the end of the tour, the lights are turned off so visitors can experience complete darkness. Access to the cavern is by organised tours only which can be booked via the website below.
- Poole’s Cavern, Green Lane, Buxton SK17 9DH.
- Website: Poole’s Cavern
- Distance from Buxton: 5 minutes by car
Solomons Temple & Buxton Country Park
Sharing the same carpark as Poole’s cavern is Buxton Country park which covers well over 100 acres. This parkland woodland is home to some wonderful flora and wildlife as well as panoramic view from the top of the summit pastures of Grin Low, which sits at 437 metres.
The park is home to Go Ape Adventures, a woodland trail as well as Solomon’s Temple.
- Solomon’s Temple, Poole’s Cavern visitor centre, Buxton SK17 9DH
- Distance from Buxton: 7 minutes by car
Buxton Raceway
Located three miles out of the centre of Buxton, Buxton Raceway is a 380 metre tarmac oval with steel plate fencing and a figure of eight circuit which will appeal to stock car and drifter racers. During the summer months, the Raceway holds ‘Domestic Formulas’ as well as ‘Travelling Formulas’ and has great facilities for spectators too.
- Buxton Raceway, Dale Head Road, Buxton SK17 0RR. Tel. 01663 732526.
- Website: Buxton Raceway
- Distance from Buxton 13 minutes by car
Walking & Hiking in the Surrounding National Parks & Castleton
Many people head to Buxton to take advantage of the lovely surrounding Peak District countryside and the glorious walks it offers.
If you have access to a car then the flexibility to explore is further widened and a good option is to head to Castletown. It’s a very well known cute and quaint English village which is very popular with walkers. Wherever you start walking here, you will be headed for two distinct peaks.
- A couple of short walking routes include Perveril Castle and Cave Dale )a dry limestone valley)
- For more ideas on walks around Buxton, head yo popular Peak District Walks.
- Distance from Buxton to Castleton: 20 minutes by car
Chatsworth House
The majestic Chatsworth & Gardens is home to the Devonshire family, and has been passed down through 16 generations. It’s well worth the visit to learn of it’s history and activities as the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire still reside here. Make sure you head over to the farm shop which is a short drive away and sample some of the produce.
There is also a cafe and restaurant which serve delicious cream teas and lunches close to the estate stables. You’ll spend hours walking the exquisite gardens, lake with a water feature as well as exploring the orangeries and green houses.
You may even recall the countless period dramas that have been filmed here such as Pride & Prejudice.
- Chatsworth House, Bakewell DE45 1PP
- Distance from Buxton: 30 minutes by car
Bakewell
Bakewell is a market town and civil parish in the Derbyshire Dales district of Derbyshire, England, known also for its local Bakewell pudding. It lies on the River Wye. This makes for a great day trip or few hours exploration from Buxton and you have to sample the great Bakewell Pudding whilst you’re there.
- Website: Visit Bakewell
- Distance from Buxton: 21 minutes by car
Shopping in Buxton
Of course Buxton has the usual High street names, but when in this beautiful Market town it’s all about the independent shopping spots and boutique specialists. One of these spots is the Cavendish Arcade, located in the historic hot baths. It’s full of independent shops selling homeware, jewellery, gifts, fashion and specialist foods by local small businesses and artisans. Charlottes Chocolatier & cafe is great to pop in for some sustenance if you’re running low and need a drink or a snack. The cakes are fab as is the famous hot chocolate.
Head to Higher Buxton and namely to Scrivener’s Books and Book Binding for three floors of independent book heaven. You’ll also pass by a traditional butchers and a home decor emporium en route. Additionally take note of Buxton’s oldest department store, Potter’s whilst in the area.
- Don’t forget to head to The Arches, an artisanal market, hidden within the historic arches of Hogshaw Mill at the Western end of Spring Gardens. It’s dog friendly and has a quintessentially quirky array of stalls as well as pop up shops.
Be-lavie Tip: a hidden Gem: Clowes chemist which has been situated in Buxton since 1875 and run for the past 70 plus years by the Clowes family. It’s a grade II listed victorian pharmacy and definitely worth a visit. Clowes Pharmacy. 4 Cavendish Circus, Buxton SK17 6AX. Tel. 01298 23218
Markets & Festivals Held in Buxton
Buxton is a pretty lively town, more so in the summer months when the town hosts a great variety of food and drink markets and festivals. The Buxton Night Food & Drink Festival is held at the Pavilion gardens in the summer months as is the Buxton Beer Festival, which is usually in October.
What Day is Market Day in Buxton?
The usual market in Buxton is held on Tuesdays and Saturdays throughout the year from 09:00 to 16:00, providing a great choice for a range of your food, household goods, clothes, gifts and lots more. If you’re spending the weekend in Buxton, you’ll be able to experience a very traditional market town feel.
The Market is naturally held on Market Place Car park.
- Market Place, Buxton SK17 6EQ. Tel. 07487 764038
- Website: Buxton Markets
Typical Peak District Foods
Why not spend your weekend in Buxton, scoping out some of the local food of Buxton and the surrounding Derbyshire towns?!
- Fidgety pie – a savoury pie containing chopped fat bacon, apple and onions in a shortcrust pastry. The pie was traditionally served to field workers during harvests as it is filling but easy to carry. The pie was also served with a side of vegetables.
- Bakewell Pudding – Created in Bakewell in the 1800s following a mistake from a local cook. After attempting to make a strawberry tart, the Bakewell cook accidentally topped a layer of jam with a soft set almond custard that led to this world-famous pudding.
- Melandra loaf – discovered in a recipe book by the Derbyshire Federation of Women’s Institutes in 1974, this sweet loaf contains pineapple, cherries and currants. It’s said the recipe is from Roman legions in Glossop, but many of these ingredients were not available in Europe until the 1600s.
- Derbyshire oatcakes – These are soft, thin oatcakes made made from medium oatmeal batter and can be served as sweet or savoury dishes. Derbyshire oatcakes were first created in the 17th century as the county’s climate and soil type made it easier to grow oats instead of wheat.
- Wirksworth Wakes Cakes – best associated with the annual Wakes holidays in Wirksworth, these sweet wheat flour cakes contain currants and carraway seeds and have a texture more similar to a biscuit.
- Derbyshire Parkins – Made of oatmeal and treacle, these little cakes contain almonds and ground ginger with butter and sugar.
- Ashbourne gingerbread – the recipe is said to have been created by a French prisoner kept in Ashbourne during the Napoleonic wars. They include ginger, syrup and sugar, and you can still buy these sweet treat in some local shops in Ashbourne.
- Malt loaf – The sticky, fruity, malt loaf was published in 1930 and residents of Derbyshire have been eating it sliced with butter ever since.
- Dovedale cheese – a soft, creamy blue cheese, is made with full fat cow’s milk in Dovedale and is brine dipped. Since 2007, Dovedale cheese can only be made within 50 miles of the town, after being awarded protected design of origin status.
- Buxton Pudding – Rumour has it this pudding was made for the mayor of Derby in November 1868, the crumbly pudding is served with stewed or tinned fruit, jam or sweet sauce.
Where to Eat & Drink in Buxton
There is a great range of independent restaurants and eateries in Buxton, serving up locally sourced authentic dishes from in and around the Peak District.
Be-lavie Tip: The safest bet if you’re spending the weekend in Buxton is to pre-book restaurants where possible so as not to avoid disappointment, especially if you’re opting for fine dining options.
Restaurants
*All restaurants can accommodate vegetarian and vegan options however for other food intolerances, please mention dietary requirements at the time of booking.
The Buxton Crescent Restaurant
- Modern, elegant and healthy food set in grand dining rooms. A formal special occasion affair.
- Further Information: Buxton Crescent Hotel Dining
- Price Guide: £££
The Old Hall Hotel Restaurant & Wine Bar
- Beautiful traditional British food serves in a classic dining room setting. A great option for fine dining.
- Further Information: Old Hall Hotel Restaurant & Wine Bar
- Price Guide: £££
La Gaby Pizzeria
- Neopolipolitan, hand-made pizzas in the heart of Buxton. Fresh ingredients and lively atmosphere. Excellent for all the family with a great range of other Italian cuisine favourites too!
- Further Information: La Gaby Pizzeria
- Price Guide: ££
Cafes & Tearooms
Food at the Pavilion Gardens
- Choose from the Pavillion Gardens Tea Rooms or Kitchen, this is the perfect place for a light lunch or simple cream tea looking out on the pretty landscaped gardens.
- Further Information: Food at The Pavilion Gardens
- Price: ££
Vintage Tea Rooms
- Serving full breakfast and lunch menus including sandwiches, paninins, oatcakes, soups and pasties as well as cream teas all day. There’s also a big selection of locally produced cakes and ice-cream is available throughout the spring and summer. Children and dogs welcome.
- Further Information: Vintage Tea Rooms
- Price Guide: £-££
No 6 The Square Tearooms
- This is your quintessential English Tea Room experience. An elegant Georgian building where you can enjoy morning coffee, light meals as well as the traditional English afternoon tea.
- Further Information: No 6. The Square
- Price Guide: £-££
Charlotte’s Chocolatier & Cafe
- Located in the Cavendish Arcade. This all yet perfectly formed cafe serves up some incredible chocolate options, light bites, cakes and other packaged treats. A must try is their ‘famous’ hot chocolate which is truly indulgent.
- Further Information: Charlotte’s Chocolatier & Cafe
- Price Guide: ££
Afternoon Teas
Buxton Crescent Restaurant
- Once of the most elegant, sophisticated afternoon tea affairs you’re likely to exprience in Buxton. A location for a wonderful treat.
- Further Information: The Buxton Crescent Hotel & Restaurant
- Price Guide: £££
No 6 The Square Tearooms
- The most quintessential afternoon tea experience in Buxton overlooking a leafy square.
- Further Information: No. 6 The Square
- Price: £-££
Palace Hotel
- Set in stunning grounds in Buxton since 1869, this is by far one of the most affordable yet beautiful locations to have afternoon tea in. You can even have a walk around the grounds afterwards. Ample car parking available on-site too.
- Further Information: Palace Hotel
- Price Guide: ££
Pubs & Bars
Miltons Tap
- Dating back to the early 1800s Miltons tap is one of Buxtons oldest Victorian buildings. They offer a range of cask marque ales, local gins as well as a number of cocktails. Locally sourced homemade food is served daily, alongside light bites lunch and sundae roasts. There’s even a quiz night every Sunday from 20:00.
- Further Information: Miltons Tap
- Price Guide: £
The Old Sun Inn
- A traditional country pub in the heart of Buxton specialising in cask ales, wine and gin and delicious pub food. There is also a beer garden to the front and rear. The Old Sun Inn is a 17th century converted coaching inn and is known to be the second oldest building in Buxton, with vintage interiors, wood panelling and a working fireplace.
- Further Information: The Old Sun Inn
- Price Guide: £
Find more Pubs and Bars in Buxton
A Short Drive From Buxton
The Merchants Yard Restaurant & Rooms, Tideswell.
- A restaurant and bar awarded 2 x AA rosettes with rooms. If you fancy heading out of Buxton, about an 18 minutes drive away this beautiful country establishment serves the wide rage of cocktails, wines, beers and delicious food throughout the day. A great place for a family meal with great quality food in a aesthetically beautiful converted hardware yard. Incredible customer service too.
- Further Information: The Merchants Yard
- Price Guide: ££
Sustainability Considerations For A Weekend In Buxton
If you’re planning an eco-friendly stay in Buxton, you will be delighted to know the town puts eco-friendly and eco-conscious considerations at the top of its priority list. From zero food shops, self catering options, lodgings scubas apartments that sleep larger numbers, to initiatives, activities and events you can get involved in. Additionally you can purchase the ‘Buxton Cup’ if you’re headed to the city for festivals or foodie events to help the fight against reducing plastic.
Further information on Buxton and Sustainability & Eco-friendly themed trip to Buxton
Itinerary: A Weekend in Buxton
Day 1
- get your weekend in Buxton underway with your first activity by boarding the Discover Buxton tram tour, where you will marvel at the Devonshire Dome, St Anne’s church, Clowes Chemist.
- Remember to fill up your water bottle with Buxton water at St Ann’s Well and be wowed at The architecture of the Buxton Crescent.
- Head to the independent boutique shops in the Cavendish Arcade in the former hot baths and don’t forget to pick up some local gifts in the visitor centre housed the Pump Room. You can even grab a famous hot chocolate or cake at Charlotte’s Chocolatier & Cafe.
- Head to the landscaped Pavilion Gardens for a stroll and call into the Winter Conservatory and treat yourself to an ice-cream from the vendors there.
- If you fancy a spot of light lunch, head to one of the historic town centres many tearooms or cafes. Post lunch why not walk to Poole’s Cavern followed by a steep walk through the Buxton Country Park and Solomon’s Temple, to get those sweeping views over Buxton.
- You’re sure to be hungry after all that walking, so pre-book yourself into one of Buxton’s fantastic dining venues, restaurants or pubs.
- Pre-book a show at The Buxton Opera House or end your evening with a drink at a cocktail bar in lower Buxton or at the Ensana Buxton Crescent Hotel bar.
Day 2
- During your last day of your weekend in Buxton, spend time relaxing before heading back and a spa treatment is just the thing post a hearty breakfast and lie-in. The Ensana Buxton Crescent Hotel has one of the best spas in town, so spoil yourself and be pampered with a range of treatments to choose from.
Weekend In Buxton FAQ
- Is Buxton Worth Visiting?
The answer is yes quite simply. Buxton is steeped in history and is home to outstanding gardens as well as world-famous Georgian and Victorian architecture. Thus making it quite the vibrant backdrop combined with quintessential English charm, theatre and the many festivals it hosts in the food, drink, arts and music.
- Which Famous People Come from Buxton?
Button is a pretty small town but that doesn’t stop it from having a number of famous talented celebrities such as war writer Vera Britain, Goodies funnyman Tim Brooke-Taylor, actress Elizabeth Spriggs and disc jockey Dave Lee Travis. More contemporary luminaries include Coronation Street star Bruno Langley (who played Todd) and singer-songwriter, Lucy Spraggan.
- Is Buxton a Big Town?
Buxton is quite a small town but with all the summer visitors can feel a lot bigger, it has a population of around 21,000.
Guide To A Weekend In Buxton Round-up
Buxton is just the tonic for history lovers who want to combine a spot of outdoor activity with the old world splendour of one of England’s finest Georgian spa towns. There’s something for everyone from a great foodie scene, beautiful accommodation options, lots to see, do and experience as well as the surrounding Peak District National Park to explore. The spa town exudes class and complete relaxation making it perfect for a slow-travel destination with a great sustainable focus. Spending the weekend in Buxton is a idea for an all season staycation.
The Best Tours In The Area For Your Weekend in Buxton
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Terri
The British are so lucky to escape to historical towns to spend the weekend at a spa and stay in a gorgeous country home.
Bejal
TerriWe do have rather a lot of pretty towns and villages and yes, you’re right we are very lucky, even if the weather doesn’t always play ball!
Brittany
Buxton looks like such a lovely place to spent a weekend! I would love to go shopping, enjoy afternoon tea, and visit the Opera House. Based on your photos, it seems that Buxton has such lovely architecture too, so I would love to just walk around and look at everything. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Bejal
BrittanyOh I do hope you get to visit one day Brittany as I’m sure you’ll really love it. It does have certain Bridgerton vibes!! The Georgian architecture around The Crescent is particularly beautiful.
Rachel - Rays of Adventure
Great post! I visited Buxton a few weeks ago, just after Christmas, and really enjoyed it. I loved the Crescent and Opera House. I’d love to go back in the summer to enjoy more of the great things to do that you’ve listed here!
Bejal
Rachel – Rays of AdventureThanks so much for stopping by Rachel. Ahh I bet we were only a week apart as I went 2 weeks before Christmas. I’m glad you share my love for Buxton too, The Opera House is stunning and the Crescent is such an architectural gem.