Buxton is often called the 'Capital of the Peak District', although it lies just outside the national park’s border. It’s surrounded by countryside and has become a magnet for visitors who want to make the most of the area’s magnificent countryside. Buxton was developed as a spa town, and its grand Victorian and Georgian architecture still dominates the town centre. With a world-class performance venue, impressive gardens and an excellent selection of shops, the town is an enjoyable place to visit, with plenty of things to see and do. The twice-weekly market is a great place to pick up fresh, local produce and there’s a good shopping centre close to the River Wye.
Buxton is well known for its excellent evening entertainment. Its most famous venue is undoubtedly the opulent Buxton Opera House, where a packed events calendar includes performances of comedy, dance, drama and more. The popular Buxton Festival is held in this grand Edwardian building every year. Buxton is also home to the Pavilion Arts Centre, that has recently enjoyed a state-of-the-art conversion since falling into disrepair since it first opened in the 1800s.
Buxton Crescent
One of the town’s most impressive pieces of architecture is Buxton Crescent, which was built in the 18th century and was inspired by the Royal Crescent in Bath. Right next to the Crescent are the remains of the original thermal baths, built in the 1800s, and the Old Hall Hotel. Another impressive historical building is the former Devonshire Royal Hospital, which has been taken over by the University of Derbyshire.
A stone’s throw from Buxton is the Peak District National Park, a ruggedly beautiful region which is ideal for hiking, cycling and a range of other outdoor pursuits. As you explore some of the UK’s most unspoilt countryside, you’ll discover pretty villages, stately homes and an abundance of wildlife.
“Surrounded by the dramatic Derbyshire Dales is the welcoming town of Buxton, known for its elegant architecture and Victorian amusements.”
Buxton and the surrounding countryside are scattered with unique places to eat and drink, including the excellent Carriages Italian Restaurant. Here, you can order from an extensive menu of tasty Sicilian dishes while sitting in a dining area which consists of two steam-era train carriages. For traditional dishes made from fresh, local produce, try Columbine Restaurant, which is particularly popular for a pre-theatre bite to eat.
Nearby you will be treated with pretty Peak District locations such as Taddington, Eyam and Bakewell.
Book a holiday at one of our self-catering holiday cottages in Buxton and the wider Peak District National Park.