The Peak District - Guide to Bakewell
Just outside the Peak District National Park is Buxton, a beautiful spa town. Just a twenty six minute drive from Ashbourne, it is easily accessible by the A515. It also has direct access to Manchester Airport. Buxton is a popular destination for visitors to the Peak District, and is definitely worth a visit, even for those who just enjoy Peak District short breaks. There is so much to do and see, so you can choose your favourite activities and sights and stay for one day, and if this isn't enough, you can return later and still have plenty to do!
Buxton is famous for its long history as a spa town. It is situated on the River Wye, and has a geothermal spring which rises at a constant temperature of 28 degrees Celsius. The spring sources from behind Eagle Parade and is pumped to St Ann's Well in the centre of town, which you can visit. Why not take some water bottles to Buxton, and fill them up yourselves – and for free! – at St Ann's Well? Children will love the novelty of clean drinking water from a well in the town, and they will be kept hydrated throughout the day. The town's wells are decorated each summer, according to the popular local tradition of well dressing. When well dressing takes place, Buxton becomes animated with a carnival spirit, so you may wish to coordinate your visit with this wonderful event.
If you enjoy walks in the Peak District, Buxton has 1,500 miles of public footpaths right on its doorstep! You can enjoy both the town and the country on the same day, enjoying walks that incorporate both, or one of the other. For something a little different, you may want to try Buxton's heritage trail, which incorporates many different landmarks of historical and cultural importance, such as The Natural Baths, The Children's Well, The Market Place and Poole's Cavern.
In Buxton, there are activities for all the family, whatever the weather, so if you plan ahead, you needn't worry that your plans will be ruined by a little rain. As well as this, Buxton is easily accessible by public transport from Ashbourne, so if you would rather not drive, you can still visit this wonderful town. And because it is so easy to get to, you might wish to visit for a second time later on in your trip.
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