Essential Hotels > England > Derbyshire > Buxton

Buxton is commonly known as the Gateway To The Peak District, and sits at the cross-section of several primary routes into and through this scenic part of Derbyshire. It is England’s highest market town at 1000 feet above sea level, but it was the Romans who were the first people to realize the benefits of the area, particularly that of the natural spring waters. They named it Aquae Arnemetiae -The Spa of the Goddess of the Grove. Later, these waters, which are maintained at a constant 28°C (82°F), again became a draw for travellers as Buxton became a place of Pilgrimage, particularly for sufferers of Rheumatism. Mary, Queen of Scots called here several times whilst a captive at Chatsworth House in Bakewell.

During the 18th century the 5th Duke of Devonshire decided that Buxton had the potential to rival Bath as a Spa town and commissioned the building of The Crescent to encourage fashionable visitors. It was designed by John Carr of York in a style similar to the architecture seen in Bath. The town was at its most popular during the heyday of the coming of the railways during the 19th century but due to the inclement weather the town never challenged Bath as a fashionable destination. It is however a healthy and invigorating place. The mineral spring can still be sampled today from St. Anne’s Well, and even if you are not in Buxton you can sample the water, which is bottled and sold commercially.

Buxton is a picturesque location, filled with beautiful buildings and an engaging atmosphere. Buxton Opera House is likely its most famous structure. The Opera House was originally built in 1905, and today it sees the annual Buxton Festival’s celebration of the arts. Buxton is also surrounded by some of the Peak District’s finest countryside. The moorlands provide one of the town’s specialities - Heather Honey, made from the three species of heather growing on the moors. The Gateway of the Peak District is an apt name, as a stay in Buxton brings all the beauty, tradition and outdoor pursuits Derbyshire has to offer within your grasp.