The Peak District was the first National Park to be designated in the UK and is celebrating its 65th year in 2016. The National Park movement born when disgruntled city workers from Manchester trespassed on the privately owned land of the kinder plateau way back in 1932. It still took until the year 2000 to enshrine the right to roam into law however!
The White Peak, the area in the south of Peak District is typified by limestone caves and dry valleys. The scenery is more gently rolling in comparison to the “Dark Peak” where impervious gritstone creates a much harder landscape.
The Dark Peak has few towns and only a handful of villages whilst the White Peak has several towns. Closest to the cottages and equidistant away are Bakewell and Buxton
Bakewell
Bakewell is most famous for its Bakewell pudding, a recipe alleged to have come about by mistake and not to be confused with a Bakewell tart. It’s a busy market town largely made up of independent retailers.
There is a thriving general and livestock market every Monday when the town gets very busy. You’ll need to park at the agricultural centre which is a short walk away from the town centre. Additionally, on the last Saturday of every month there is a farmers market which is a great place to source local Peak District produce.
Buxton
Buxton, a spa town, had its heyday in the 19th century when ‘taking the waters’ was very fashionable. Many large and imposing buildings were built and a few still remain.
Buxton has its own crescent (smaller than Bath but just as impressive) that is currently undergoing redevelopment as an upmarket hotel.
It has its own Opera House which stages some great productions throughout the year.
Also worth a look is The Dome. Originally a stables for the Duke of Devonshire, the building has since been a hospital, council offices and is now part of the Derby University campus. You can go inside, have a coffee and admire the largest unsupported dome in the UK
Click here for an extensive list of things to see and do whilst you stay with us.
