What to expect when you are visiting Buxton
Recent events including the pandemic and the cost of living crisis have all taken their toll on Buxton in recent years but Buxton is still a great place to come and spend the day, or even a little longer if you like.
Have a walk into Spring Gardens or up on to the marketplace and you will see that there are plenty of independent shops that cater for visitors to the town. You will find charity shops, takeaways, cafes, gift shops, artisan shops, restaurants and family friendly bars and pubs. Some might even say that there are more shops in Buxton that cater for visitors, than there are for locals!
Speaking of shops, Buxton is a town of two halves. Spring Gardens is a pedestrianised area with a 1980's style shopping centre "The Springs", which you can't miss, with its dull and drab featureless exterior. The pedestrianised area has numerous shops including W H Smith, Greggs, Argos, Mountain Warehouse, Boots, and Iceland. Take a walk up the "Slopes" or up Terrace Road towards the market ground, and once you have got your breath back you will be able to stroll down High Street where you will find a number of independent shops, cafes and takeaways. The outdoor market is held once a week on a Tuesday (weather permitting).
Buxton Crescent, originally designed by the architect John Carr is a Grade-I-listed building. It was built for William Cavendish, the fifth Duke of Devonshire as part of his plan to establish Buxton as a spa town. It fell into disrepair until it was eventually renovated and is now opreating as a luxtury spa hotel.
There are some notable events which take place annually and are great fun for both visitors and locals alike. July is a busy month with the Buxton Well Dressing and Carnival which includes the ever popular fairground, held on Buxton market place. One of the newer outdoor events which takes place in August, is Eat in the Park. This is a weekend of food, drink and live music that the whole family can enjoy. The Octagon building at the Pavilion Gardens is a good place to find craft and antique fairs which are held regularly throughout the year.
If you come to visit Buxton by car, you will find that there are not many places where you can park for free. In fact if you are visiting during carnival week, parking spaces can be very limited and difficult to find. Most residential streets are for residents parking, requiring a permit so do be careful where you leave your car.
More about shopping in Buxton
Along with its many historical and natural attractions, Buxton also offers a wide variety of shopping options for visitors. Here are some of the best places to shop in Buxton:
The Springs Shopping Centre, located in the heart of the town, offers a wide variety of shops, including high street favorites, independent boutiques, and specialty stores. The centre has a range of shops including clothing, footwear, home goods, and electronics.
The Buxton Museum on Terrace Road is which is a great place to learn about the town's history and culture.
The Green Man Gallery, located just off Terrace Road, offers a wide range of local crafts and gifts. The gallery specialises in contemporary art and crafts, and features the work of local artists and artisans. It's a great place to find a unique and special gift.
The Buxton Market, located in the Market Place, is a great place to find a variety of goods, including fresh produce, clothing, and home goods. The market is held on Tuesday and Saturday and is a great place to find a bargain.
The Buxton Bookshop, Scriveners, located on the High Street, is a great place to find a wide range of books, including fiction, non-fiction, and children's books. The shop also has a range of gifts and stationery.
Overall, Buxton offers a wide variety of shopping options for visitors, from high street favorites to unique and independent shops. Whether you're looking for a specific item or just enjoy browsing, you're sure to find something that catches your eye in this charming town.
What's the weather like in Buxton?
Buxton is known for its unpredictable weather, with visitors experiencing a range of conditions throughout the year.
In the summer months, Buxton experiences relatively mild temperatures, with average high temperatures in the mid to high 60s Fahrenheit (around 20 degrees Celsius) during the day. However, it is not uncommon to experience heat waves with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) during the day. The nights are usually cool and comfortable, making it a great time to explore the town and its many attractions.
The autumn and winter months can be quite chilly, with average temperatures ranging from the mid to high 40s Fahrenheit (around 8 degrees Celsius) during the day. It's not uncommon for temperatures to drop below freezing at night, and it's likely to experience some frost and snowfall during these months. It is important to be well equipped with warm clothing and waterproof boots for hikes.
The spring months can be a mix of weather, with rain and sunshine often experienced in the same day. The temperature ranges from 4-12 degrees Celsius (39-54 Fahrenheit) during the day and chilly at night.
It's important to note that the weather in Buxton can be unpredictable and can change quickly. It's always a good idea to check the forecast and be prepared for a range of conditions, regardless of the time of year you visit. Despite the weather, Buxton offers a wide variety of activities and attractions to enjoy, whether you're looking to explore the town's rich history or enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Peak District.
Food and drink in Buxton?
Along with its many historical and natural attractions, Buxton also offers a wide variety of food and drink options for visitors. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, you're sure to find something that suits your taste in this charming town.
For a quick bite, visitors can check out No.6 The Square near the Opera House, which serves a variety of sandwiches, soups, and pastries. The café has a great selection of sandwiches, including a traditional Ploughman's lunch and a vegetarian option. The café is also a great place to relax and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while you explore the town.
If you're looking for a more formal dining experience, The Crescent Hotel's restaurant is a great option. The restaurant serves a range of traditional British dishes, including fish and chips, pie, and roast beef. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with family and friends.
For a more casual dining experience, The Kings Head Pub is a great option. The pub serves a range of traditional British dishes, including fish and chips, pie, and roast beef. The pub has a relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with family and friends.
For those looking for a drink, Buxton has a variety of pubs and bars to choose from. The Old Sun Inn is one of the oldest pubs in Buxton and has a great selection of local beers and ciders. The Queens Head is also a great option for a drink, with a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits.
Overall, Buxton offers a wide variety of food and drink options for visitors, from quick bites to formal dining experiences. Whether you're looking for a traditional British dish or something more exotic, you're sure to find something that suits your taste in this charming town.
Visiting Buxton for the day
Known for its stunning architecture, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, it's the perfect destination for a day trip.
One of the must-see attractions in Buxton is the Buxton Crescent, a grand Georgian building that was once a fashionable spa resort. The building now houses a luxury hotel, spa, and restaurant, and is open to visitors who can take a tour and explore the impressive architecture and decor.
Another popular attraction is the Buxton Opera House, a Victorian theatre that hosts a wide range of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. Visitors can take a backstage tour to learn about the history of the theater and see the dressing rooms and stage.
For those interested in history, the Buxton Museum and Art Gallery is a great place to visit. The museum tells the story of the town's history, from its Roman origins to its present day, with exhibits showcasing local artifacts, art, and photographs.
For those looking to explore the great outdoors, Buxton is surrounded by the stunning peaks and valleys of the Peak District. There are many walking and hiking trails in the area, including the popular Solomon's Temple, a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding landscape.
Buxton also offers a variety of shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring and experiencing the local culture. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or the great outdoors, Buxton has something for everyone.