Things to do in Bakewell
Monsal Trail
Follow this traffic free trail through some of the Peak District’s best limestone dales. The route runs between Bakewell and Blackwell Mill along the old Midland Railway Line.
Haddon Hall
Once the main residence for the dukes of Rutland, this country manor was built between the 13th and 17th centuries and is located just a few miles away from Bakewell. Haddon hall is perhaps one of the best preserved medieval houses in the UK. Interestingly enough it has been the set of a few famous films such as The Princess Bride, Elizabeth and Jane Eyre.
At Haddon Hall you’ll have the opportunity to explore the old kitchen and banquet hall along with the gardens, which offer amazing views over the Peak District.
Visit the Bakewell Recreation Ground
The Bakewell Recreation Ground is perfect for kids. There’s tennis courts, a cricket pitch and a football field plus a fantastic playground (with a splash zone), so plenty of things to help them burn off steam.
Chatsworth House and Playground
Another great day out for the whole family. The Chatsworth Estate is home to a farmyard where you can pet animals like pigs, horses, goats and guinea pigs. For the kids, there’s also a playground where they can burn off some steam on the swings, zip lines and climbing walls.
Explore Bakewell
With so many shops, specialist markets and events available in Bakewell, there’s plenty to explore around the town.
Eat A Bakewell Tart
You can’t visit Bakewell without trying the town’s famous dessert. There are plenty of places you can pick up a Bakewell Tart, but the best known place is the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop.
If you’ve never tried Bakewell Tart before, it’s comprised of pastry, jam, frangipane and toasted almonds.
Go to a Festival
Bakewell is home to quite a few festivals which may pique your interest. If you’re into cycling, you’ll enjoy the Eroica Britannia festival which normally takes place in June. If you’re into music festivals then check out the Y Not Festival which is normally held in July. Of course, Bakewell is also home to a baking festival which happens in August.
All Saints Church
Bakewell’s All Saints Church is a Grade 1 listed building and dates back to Anglo Saxon times. The church’s beautiful architecture makes it well worth a visit while you are in Bakewell.
Bakewell Old House Museum
Originally a Tudor house, this award-winning museum is a great way to learn more about the history of Bakewell.
Visit the Outdoor and Livestock Market
Plenty of bargains available at this market which takes place every monday. On the last Saturday of each month there is also a farmer’s market which has over 70 stalls and an auction ring!
Bakewell Treasure Trails
What better way to explore Bakewell than a fun treasure hunt around the town! You can find more information here: https://www.treasuretrails.co.uk/products/things-to-do-bakewell-derbs
Enjoy an Afternoon Tea at the Lavender Tea Rooms
You can find the Lavender Tea Rooms tucked away just off the main street. Along with afternoon tea, they also offer breakfasts, sandwiches, soups, cakes, jacket potatoes as well as plenty of other options.
It does get quite busy so book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Take a Stroll Along the River Wye
The river wye runs through Bakewell and is a popular local sight with its many bridges and bird life.
Thornbridge Hall Gardens
If you are visiting Bakewell in the summer you can take a look at Thornbridge Hall Gardens on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
The colourful Thronbridge Hall Gardens are a Royal Horticultural Society ‘Partner Garden.’ On the grounds you’ll be able to find a koi lake, a rock garden, woodland and immaculately maintained lawns. The statues in the garden come from nearby Chatsworth, some of them were gifts from the Greek government.
Have a Drink in a Local Pub
Bakewell is home to at least 9 pubs which can be found around the town center. Each pub has its own character and no two are exactly alike.
Book Your Stay Now
If you are looking to lodge in the Peak District, look no further than Cotton House.
