A brief history:
The Romans first occupied Buxton in 70AD and named the town Aquae Arnemetiae because of the warm springs found there; its history as an important spa town continued until the early 20th century.
The two-million year old limestone cave running under Buxton - Poole’s Cavern - is thought to be named after a 15th century outlaw called Poole, who used it as a hideout. In the present, visitors can see various chambers extending some 310 metres, although the cave system is thought to extend much further than this.
From the cavern’s visitor centre, you can walk up hill into Grin Low Woods (passing the Buxton Go Ape centre, if you fancy swinging into action!) to eventually reach the summit of Solomon’s Temple – a folly built in 1896, which marks the site of an ancient burial ground. Solomon’s Temple can be climbed to unveil a glorious panoramic view of Buxton on a clear day.
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View across Buxton from Solomon's Temple |
Buxton now: The lovely spa town of Buxton lies just outside - but is surrounded by - the Peak District National Park and is the highest market town in England. The town itself is home to many wonderful examples of fine Georgian architecture, the centrepiece most definitely being The Crescent - painstakingly renovated to provide Buxton with a lavish and luxurious hotel, where visitors can once again ‘take the waters’ in the hydrotherapy spa. |
Things to do and see:
Visitors to Buxton can enjoy a promenade around the beautiful Pavilion Gardens with its ornamental gardens, walking trails, lakes, children’s play area and a miniature railway; sample the cultural programme of events staged at the beautiful Buxton Opera House and Pavilion Arts Centre; step inside the Devonshire Dome and test out the impressive ‘echo’ created by the magnificent domed ceiling; or take a trip down Poole’s Cavern and view the spectacular stalactites and stalacmites underground.
From the cavern’s visitor centre, you can walk up hill into Grin Low Woods (passing the Buxton Go Ape centre, if you fancy swinging into action!) to eventually reach the summit of Solomon’s Temple – a folly built in 1896, which marks the site of an ancient burial ground. Solomon’s Temple can be climbed to unveil a glorious panoramic view of Buxton on a clear day.
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View of the Old Hall Hotel from the Pavilion Gardens |
View across the Pavilion Gardens beautful flowerbeds |
Summer entertainment:
Every summer, Buxton Opera House hosts the Buxton Festival and Fringe - a prestigious opera and arts festival – as well as many other events throughout the year. During this Arts festival, you will stumble over many fine street acts and temporary arts venues across the town, offering a wide choice of fantastic entertainment throughout the summer months.
There is a rich collection of artisan and independent shops to peruse - ideal for an afternoon’s gift shopping. And don’t forget to visit our wonderful Museum, which tells the story of Buxton through the years, and is home to many interesting exhibits and artefacts, and hosts an annual Arts Exhibition.
Wider afield:
There are numerous walks, country estates and breathtaking views to be appreciated from every direction, here. From a picnic in the Goyt Valley, or a hike along the craggy, atmospheric Roaches, to a day spent admiring the fine gardens, houses and countryside of Chatsworth, Lyme Park or Haddon Hall.
For additional information on things to do and what's on in and around Buxton, go to: explorebuxton.co.uk
