Buxton

Overview

Made famous by its top-quality water, Buxton is a thermal spa town on the edge of the Peak District National Park. A trip here is like stepping back in time as you’ll find gorgeous ornamental gardens as well as Georgian and Victorian architecture. It’s the highest market town in England and still holds twice-weekly markets.

There’s no shortage of free things to do in the town, from wandering around the beautiful Pavilion Gardens to exploring the spa town heritage. Buxton became popular as a tourist destination during Victorian times, thanks to its thermal spas and leisure facilities.

Families will love discovering the wooden sculpture trail to Solomon’s Temple, couples will enjoy the Bridgerton vibes of the pretty streets and the renowned Crescent, and solo travellers can unwind with a stroll along the River Wye.

Buxton weather

We can’t talk about Buxton without mentioning the weather! Because of its altitude of about 1,000 feet (300 metres) above sea level, Buxton is one of the coldest towns in England and often has cooler temperatures than the surrounding areas.

The weather makes it perfect for visiting during a heatwave, where you’ll find a bit of respite from soaring temperatures, and fun to visit during winter, when cold temperatures can be expected – who needs the Alps?

However, Buxton is also drier than the surrounding areas with an average rainfall of 46.5 inches. We recommend bringing a waterproof coat with you anyway – just in case!

Where is Buxton?

Buxton is in Derbyshire in the East Midlands. It’s in an area of the Peak District called the High Peak and is surrounded by the rolling hills of the countryside.

Free things to see and do in Buxton

Visit on market day

A market takes place on Tuesdays and Saturdays throughout the year at Buxton Marketplace, the highest marketplace in England. The market runs from 9am until 4pm and offers a range of stalls selling fresh produce, clothing, gifts, and much more.

Grab a drink from St Ann’s Well

You can find St Ann’s Well opposite the Crescent Hotel and the Old Hall Hotel (both beautiful buildings that deserve a look!). It supplies Buxton with its famous thermal waters, so bring your reusable bottle and fill up here. Be warned, though – the water will need to be chilled first as it comes out warm!

Pavilion Gardens

This historic building set in parkland is Grade II listed and is a stunning reminder of Buxton’s Victorian heritage. There are 23 acres of gardens with a boating lake, lawns, and fountains. Children will love the miniature train and play areas.

Inside the building itself, you’ll find the Winter Conservatory with botanical gardens and a fishpond – a perfect activity for a rainy day. There are also shops, an art gallery, and a cinema, as well as several places where you can get a drink and something to eat.

Solomon’s Temple

Solomon’s Temple, also known as Grin Low Tower, is a grade II listed Victorian folly on a Bronze Age barrow. It’s located in Buxton Country Park and you can climb to the top of the tower via the steep staircase to enjoy views over some of the Peak District’s most famous landmarks, including Mam Tor, Kinder Scout, Axe Edge, Combs Moss, and Chelmorton Low.

The Serpentine Walk

The Serpentine Walk is a walking trail that follows the River Wye from the Burlington Road end of the Pavilion Gardens before looping back to the park. It’s a pleasant stroll and there are benches along the way where you can enjoy a moment of peace and eat your lunch.

Visit the Pump Room

The Pump Room was built in 1894 for the 7th Duke of Devonshire, as the previous well was getting too crowded. The Grade II listed building was restored in 2016 and is now home to the Buxton Visitor Centre. The Pump Room hosts family activities during the school holidays as well as talks and pop-up art exhibitions.

There’s another well here where you can fill up your bottle with Buxton’s famous water. The Victorians believed that the waters had healing properties, which was why they drank and bathed in them during their leisure time.

How to get to Buxton from YHA Hartington Hall

Buxton is around 13 miles (20.9 kilometres) from YHA Hartington Hall. The easiest and most convenient way to get there is by public transport.

Public transport: There’s a direct bus between YHA Hartington Hall and Buxton. Catch the 442 bus from outside the Youth Hostel and alight at Market Place in the centre of the town. The journey should take about 45 minutes.

Driving: The journey from YHA Hartington Hall to Buxton should take approximately 25 minutes by car. There are plenty of pay and display car parks to choose from, including: