Things to do in Bakewell
Bakewell's pretty courtyards, boutique shops, vast history and picture postcard settings on the River Wye make it a firm favourite with visitors to the Peak District. Find out about the top visiting spots and where the must see's are hidden and waiting to be to explored whilst you are on your staycation.
Chatsworth House and Garden
Visiting Chatsworth House and its phenomenal Garden is top priority whilst in the area, from Bakewell it is just over 10 minutes drive. Nestled into the heart of the Peak District countryside, this 16th Century stately home welcomes all to enjoy the splendour and heritage that it offers. Take in what lies in its grounds, explore through the vast Garden and discover the rich history in its walls with tours around the House. There are also adventures to be had in the surrounding 1000 acre parkland and woodland as well, you can easily spend a full day here. A popular walk starts behind Chatsworth House in Stand Wood where the Hunting Tower and Aqueduct walk begins.
Prices: House and Garden £26.00 per adult, or just the Garden is £15.00 per adult.
All Saints Church
A special place to visit would be All Saints Church, a grade one listed building which is known to be found in 920, and was even mentioned in the Domesday Book. Built on a hillside site overlooking the growing town of Bakewell, it is now one of the finest medieval parish churches in England, bursting with history. There are numerous reminders of this Saxon heritage, including a pair of impressively hand carved crosses in the churchyard, originally from the top of the building. As well as a large number of hand carved stones in the entrance way of the church. Many walks throughout Bakewell pass All Saints Church so you can explore its grounds.
Bakewell Walks
Bakewell is full of opportunities to explore the surround countryside, popular walks such as the Monsal Trail and Greenways will always be at the top of most recommended walks in Bakewell. There are so many picturesque walks throughout and around Bakewell that you will never be short for choice, such as the Bakewell to Ashford-in-the-Water walk starting from All Saints Church.
You can even walk through a little bit of history, going upstream through a meadowland known as 'Scott's Garden' passing by Holme Hall, a small but mighty Jacobean Manor. Of course, lets not forget that you can easily walk from Bakewell to the phenomenal Chatsworth House and Garden, leading through impressive woodlands to open pastures along the River Derwent. In gorgeous summer weather you can easily stretch this walk out to last a whole day, or simply just a couple of hours. Find the Bakewell to Chatsworth walk here.
Other walks to try:
Bakewell to Ashford-in-the-Water Walk (circular, 7km)
Bakewell to Chatsworth Walk (circular, 10km)
Hunting Tower and Aqueduct Walk (circular, 1.9km)
Birchen Edge Walk (circular, 2.1km)
River Derwent Walk from Curbar to Froggatt (circular, 4km)
Beeley and Hill Bank Plantation Walk (2.7km)
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Delicious Dining and Bakewell Pudding
We all know that exploring can be tiring and hungry work. Whether just for a refreshing drink, or a light bite lunch The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley and The Devonshire Arms at Beeley are the perfect places for the respite that you need and deserve. These old English country Inns only use locally sourced produce, most of which is directly from The Chatsworth Estate. We can assure you that you will receive a warm country welcome.
The Cavendish Hotel at Baslow offers exceptionally indulgent afternoon teas, full of handmade pastries and delicious savoury treats. Whilst their Champagne and Seafood Terrace is a fine dining experience like no other, showcasing the best of the Grande Marque House of Champagne and mouth-watering seafood dishes. Join them under the canvas on a warm evening with views of Chatsworth Estate.
A simple must do is trying Bakewell pudding, it is after all what put the town of Bakewell on the map and so you can't visit Bakewell without eating one. In 1860 a cook at Rudding Arms accidently messed up a simple recipe for a Jam Tart and in turn created this delicious delight. Everyone loves a sweet treat and so there are a handful of bakeries in Bakewell where you will be able to get your hands on the famous pudding, and don't worry if it isn't for you then there will be other delights on offer.
Old House Museum
Old House Museum is hidden away behind the All Saints Church, and is the oldest house in Bakewell. Originally a Parsonage dated from 1534 and is one of the best-preserved 15th century houses in the country. This historical house is now an award-winning museum where it tells the story and journey of the Peak District over thousands of years as well as showcasing other historical objects. From Tudor artefacts found encased in walls to Macedonian ceremonial swords, even an elephants foot! With 500 years of stories to explore and learn, it's certainly worth visiting.
Prices: tickets are £5.00 per person and are valid for a year.
Bakewell Market
Every Monday Bakewell has a bustling outdoor market that has taken place since the 13th century. In those days there were very few shops and so if someone wished to buy or sell anything they had to go to the market to trade. Bakewell soon became a flourishing market town where people from all over flocked to visit, this still continues today with Market Mondays making the town a particularly busy place. Selling things from food to boutique clothing to antiques as well as a livestock market, its a wonderful place to visit.
If you are planning a visit to the Peak District, we have a beautiful hotels, inns and holiday cottages in the Derbyshire area that are perfect for a countryside staycation.
Find out the history of the incredible town of Bakewell and its surrounding areas.