A Week Away

Six Day Visit Suggested Itinerary

There’s no need to compromise with a visit to Buxton. There’s something for everyone here!

Below are six day plans (assuming you are travelling on the seventh). Mix up the order as the weather permits!

See our What’s on When calendar to check any special events or exhibitions.

Day 1: History Day

Start your visit with a Discover Buxton walking tour and get to know the town. Their welcoming and knowledgeable guides will help you get your bearings, give you an overview of the town and answer any questions you may have. They will take you past the Buxton Crescent, to the magnificent Devonshire Dome (access permitting) and point out lots hidden gems along the way. Visit the Buxton Visitor Centre in The Pump Room for further inspiration and fill up your water bottles with Buxton Water at the adjacent St Ann’s Well. In the afternoon, find out more about ‘taking the waters’ at the Crescent Experience. If it’s a sunny Sunday afternoon, walk along the Pavilion Gardens promenade and listen to the brass band on the bandstand (April to September) – a perfect spot for an ice cream from the parlour. Have a relaxing evening and check out some of the pubs and bars in Lower Buxton – pick your poison: craft beers and ales at The Tap House, gin at RedWillow’s Bank or wine at Season’s Buxton.

Day 2: Active Day

Base yourself at Poole’s Cavern Visitor’s Centre for the day. In the morning, head above ground with Go Ape for a high-ropes adventure. Have lunch in the cafe, then head underground through Poole’s Cavern for a walk under the Peak District in one of the country’s best showcaves. Later in the afternoon, wander through the lovely Grin Low Woods along the sculpture trails up to Solomon’s Temple for a great view of the town: a lovely spot to watch the sunset. Alternatively, head for a swim at the Buxton Swimming & Fitness Centre in the Pavilion Gardens for a splash about and in the afternoon, if it’s Saturday, head to The Park to watch Buxton Cricket Club. After an active day, head to Buxton Cinema for the latest film release – sit back and relax.

Day 3: Spa Day

For a mid-week recharge, treat yourself at the Buxton Crescent Wellness Spa. Bathe in the refreshing thermal waters, enjoy a relaxing massage; or pamper yourself at one of our many hair and beauty salons. Have lunch or afternoon tea at the Pavilion Gardens Restaurant & Bar and while away the afternoon wandering around our lovely parks and gardens. In the evening, dress your best and attend an opera, concert or play at the stunning Buxton Opera House and experience the heart of the town.

Day 4: Peak Day

Head for the hills of the beautiful Peak District – there’s beautiful views in every direction. Hike the peaks and dales of the White Peak, conquer the moors and edges of the Dark Peak, explore the ruinous Errwood Hall in the Goyt Valley or climb The Roaches – see popular nearby walks here or download a walking guides app. Pop in to the High Peak Bookstore & Cafe for some lunch. Feel the past at the ancient Arbor Low stone circle or cycle the accessible Monsal Trail towards Bakewell. Check out our outdoors and sports pages for more information. In the evening, head to the pubs of Higher Buxton for a well-earned drink and, if you’re so inclined, a pub quiz or karaoke!

Day 5: Out & About Day

Go for a day trip to one of the many nearby attractions. Head to Chatsworth or Lyme for a stately visit, Peak Wildlife Park, or, for a noisier day, Alton Towers, the Heights of Abraham or Crich Tramway Museum. Check out our Beyond Buxton page for more information. Plan your visit around one of the nearby events and festivals which take place throughout the year and get a real feel for the area.

Day 6: Shop & Drop Day

Spend the day exploring the wonderful shops in the Cavendish Arcade in the atmospheric old hot baths, explore the town’s own department store, Potters of Buxton, head down Spring Gardens to the Springs Shopping Centre or discover the independent shops of Higher Buxton. In the afternoon, grab a bite to eat on Spring Gardens, at La Gaby Pizzeria or the Vintage Tea Rooms, and then drop on The Slopes or in the Pavilion Gardens. In the evening, catch a live music gig in one of the many pubs and bars in town. Check out the monthly listing to see who is playing – there’s live music most nights of the week.

Day 7: Lazy Day

If it’s the weekend, have a nosy through the fairs and markets at the Pavilion Gardens, play a round of golf, or watch a game of cricket at The Park. Have lunch at a relaxing tea room – at No.6 The Square or in the Pavilion. Wander through the local woods for a spot of forest-bathing or browse local creations at one of our art galleries such as the Gallery in the Gardens or Isla Fine Art. End the day by picking a spot in one of the town’s parks and enjoy the afternoon sun. Spend a relaxing evening at The Old Sun Inn or the Old Hall Hotel.