jenny's local guide
Things to do in Buxton
- The bits I'd tell a friend.
Not a tourist guide. Just the places I've walked into, eaten at, sent guests to and quietly become fond of over the years. Some I know inside out. A couple are still on my own list.
A note from me
"I've been here long enough to have opinions. These are mine, honestly given, occasionally biased but always open to hearing about new places."
If you find somewhere brilliant I've missed, tell me. This list keeps growing because of guests like you.
still planning?
Explore Buxton has the full calendar
Ahead of your getaway, I always point guests to what's on in Buxton and things to do in Buxton. It's a far more comprehensive guide than mine — theatre listings, live music, events, attractions and the kind of up-to-date detail I can't always keep track of. Worth a browse if you're plotting the weekend.
slow mornings
Breakfasts & Cafe's
A few personal favourites to start the day — let me know if you discover a new one.
2–4 High Street, SK17 6EU
The scrambled eggs is my favourite, good comfy seats, the heating's always on (important for Buxton).
Jenny's tip — If Sally is serving, mention my name and tell her we sent you.
13 Scarsdale Pl, Buxton SK17 6EF
A solid breakfast menu at sensible prices. I've heard the Sunday dinners are excellent, though I've yet to test that myself.
14 Terrace Rd, Buxton SK17 6DU
If you want a sweet treat and very good coffee, this is your place. As a large group, you'll need to take away.
Jenny's tip — We have discount cards - see the guestbook for more details
50 Spring Gardens, Buxton SK17 6BZ
A slightly different take on breakfast, spiced twists on the classics. The candyfloss hot chocolate is also slightly ridiculous and absolutely worth it.
Two minutes from the door
Where to Eat — walking distance
All within a five-minute walk — and no uphill climb home.
35 High St, Buxton SK17 6HA
The only curry house in Buxton and it's just around the corner. Be warned it closes at 10pm.
Jenny's tip — We have guest discount - see the guestbook
8 Hall Bank, Buxton SK17 6EW
A great option for groups. Hearty food, decent wine, good atmosphere and a real fire. Worth booking ahead at weekends.
3 Eagle Parade, Buxton SK17 6EQ
I've been told this is the best Italian in Buxton - repeatedly. I still haven't made it there myself, so you'll have to report back.
33 High St, Buxton SK17 6HA
Just a two-minute walk from the house. Traditional pub grub and a very easy option if you don't want to venture far. A solid choice for a relaxed pint and something hearty.
A slightly longer stroll
Where to Eat — into town
Centre of Buxton or a little drive away, all worth the effort.
2–3 Cavendish Circus, SK17 6AT
This place is almost always packed, which tells you everything. Book early. They've built a very solid reputation, and it's deserved.
The Old Pump House, George St, SK17 6AY
Great for sharing — unless you have a non-sharer in your group. In that case… maybe book them their own table.
THE SQUARE, BUXTON, SK17 6AZ
The quintessential English tearoom. Think homemade cakes, generous afternoon teas, proper pots of tea and one of the best homemade quiches in town. Traditional, welcoming and always worth booking if you can.
Jenny’s tip — My favourite afternoon tea in Buxton.
George Street, SK17 6AY
After living in Lyon for two years, I became mildly obsessed with French onion soup. This isn't quite Lyon, but it absolutely ticks the box.
Buxton Brewery, Staden Lane, SK17 9RZ
Great local brewery with an industrial vibe. Craft beer, "food in a basket" (ideal for hangovers). Pool tables, darts, shuffleboard and live music, it's always worth checking what's on.
THE SQUARE, BUXTON, SK17 6BN
A stylish spot that’s just as good for a glass of wine and a sharing board as it is for afternoon tea. Homemade scones, loose-leaf teas, brunch and a relaxed atmosphere make it an easy place to while away a couple of hours.
Jenny’s tip — Perfect if not everyone in your group fancies afternoon tea.
Worth dressing up for
Special Occasions
For birthdays, anniversaries, big news… or just because you can.
Calver Road, Baslow, DE45 1RR
A Michelin-starred country house restaurant. Proper white tablecloth territory. If you're celebrating something big (or just feeling fancy), this is the one. For a private setting of up to 8, book the Wine Room.
St John's Rd, Tideswell, Buxton SK17 8NY
About 15 minutes away in Tideswell. Seasonal British cooking in a beautiful old stone building, relaxed, elegant and reliably excellent. A very safe bet for a special evening.
9 Market St, Chapel-en-le-Frith, SK23 0HL
Still waiting to be taken here myself, but it's known for beautifully presented seasonal tasting menus, very much a special-occasion spot.
Little Hucklow, Buxton SK17 8RT
Michelin-recognised and tucked away in the countryside. I've yet to go, but it's firmly on the list. Everything I hear suggests it's worth the drive (and possibly the stretchy trousers).
Days worth planning
Activities
Get active and go and explore
CHESTERFIELD
If your group enjoys a challenge, Dolomite Training offers everything from climbing and caving to abseiling, mountain biking and navigation courses. Great for beginners through to experienced adventurers, with activities tailored to your group’s ability
Go Ape, Country Park, Buxton SK17 9DH
A treetop adventure course with zip lines, rope bridges. Great fun if you're feeling brave or if you enjoy watching your friends realise they don't actually like heights.
Watford Road,Buxton, SK17 6XF
A beautiful moorland course designed by Alister MacKenzie. Even if you're not playing, the setting alone is worth it, quiet, open and very Peak District.
Jenny’s tip — I can get guests a discount, ask me
buxton
Reconnect with nature through guided wellbeing experiences in the Peak District. From mindful woodland walks and forest yoga nidra to seasonal gatherings, Sam’s sessions offer a slower, more restorative way to explore the landscape. Book via the shop page.
peak district
Think The Traitors meets a giant outdoor game of hide-and-seek. Split into teams, solve clues, hunt for treasure and avoid being caught by the Hunters in this adrenaline-filled adventure.
THE SQUARE, BUXTON, SK17 6XZ
Perfect for girls’ weekends when you fancy doing something a little different. Pick a piece, grab a drink and spend a couple of relaxed hours chatting while you paint. No artistic talent required!
Jenny’s tip — Ideal if the Peak District weather has other plans.
A STEP BACK IN TIME
Historic Buxton & Beyond
Discover historic landmarks in Buxton and across the surrounding Peak District.
The Crescent, Buxton SK17 6BH
The Grade I listed Georgian Crescent, built in the 1780s by the Duke of Devonshire, is now a luxury hotel and spa. Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth popping in for a coffee or a cocktail.
St John's Rd, Buxton SK17 6BE
Just two minutes from the house, Buxton's famous 23 acre park opened in 1871 and is made for an unhurried stroll through beautifully kept Victorian gardens.
9 Market St, Chapel-en-le-Frith, SK23 0HL
Opposite the Crescent, Buxton's famous spring water flows constantly at 28°C all year round. Bring a bottle and see what you think.
Water St, Buxton SK17 6XN
A beautiful Edwardian theatre opened in 1903, designed by Frank Matcham. Theatre, comedy, music and the annual Buxton Festival, well worth checking what's on.
Bakewell DE45 1PP
One of the UK's most iconic estates. House, gardens and parkland. Easy to spend a full day here.
Dale Rd, Matlock Bath DE4 3NT
Cable cars, cavern tours and big views across the valley. An easy, slightly different day out from the usual walk-and-pub plan.
Jenny’s tip — I can get guests a discount, ask me
Straight from the front door
Walking Distance
All in one place — cave, woods, famous tower and the chance to swing through the trees.
Green Ln, Buxton SK17 9DH
Just inside Grin Low Woods you'll find Poole's Cavern, a two-million-year-old limestone cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours run throughout the day and it's far larger inside than most people expect. Even if caves aren't normally your thing, it's worth a look.
Green Ln, Buxton SK17 9DH
Also in the same park is Go Ape, a treetop adventure course with zip lines, rope bridges. Great fun if you're feeling brave or if you enjoy watching your friends realise they don't actually like heights.
Green Ln, Buxton SK17 9DH
From Poole's Cavern you can continue up through the woods to Solomon's Temple, a Victorian hilltop tower with fantastic views across Buxton and the surrounding Peak District. The climb is short but a little steep, the view at the top makes up for it.
Boots on, phones down
Iconic Walks
For fresh air, big views and the kind of walks you'll talk about on the way home.
Mam Tor & The Great Ridge
Castleton, Hope Valley S33 8WA
One of the most iconic walks in the Peak District. Big views, a clear ridge path and a good pub at the end. Hard to beat.
Dovedale Stepping Stones
Dovedale, Ashbourne DE6 2AY
A classic for a reason. Limestone valleys, river walks and the famous stepping stones. Easy to follow and great for a slower day.
Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill
Hollinsclough SK17 0QH
Steeper, shorter and a bit more adventurous. Often called the "Dragon's Back" small climb, big reward.
Monsal Trail
Blackwell Mill, near Buxton
A flat, easy route along a former railway line. Tunnels, viaducts and wide open views. Ideal for walking or cycling. Easy to join just outside Buxton.
While you’re here
More ideas for making the most of your stay in Buxton.
Looking for more ideas? Browse our latest guides, walking routes and local recommendations to help you make the most of your time in Buxton and the Peak District.
