The Queen B’s visit Buxton and Bakewell

Another week and our two B’s Claire Buckley (Sales) and Lisa Buller (UK Ops) were off once again visiting hotels and visitor attractions in beautiful Buxton and Bakewell.

The first visit of the day was to Shrigley Hall Hotel & Spa on the edge of the Peak District National Park, the views across to Manchester breathtaking in the glorious sunshine. Dating back to 1825 the Hotel has been a former manor house and Salesian college, its history displayed all around the hotel.

With the outdoor pool and spa looking very inviting, our duo had no time to relax as it was back on the road towards The Palace Hotel & Spa in Buxton.

Another hotel steeped in history as the Palace Hotel opened in 1868, it is also hosting some of the Buxton International Festival in the grand ballroom which is taking place from 9-26 July in 2026. The show round included the new Derby room filled with settees, pool table and large TV and The Robert Rippon Bar. The Spa and Wellness area included an indoor pool, gym and treatment rooms.

Continuing onto Bakewell known for its unique and delicious pudding, yes Claire did buy one!, it is the biggest town in the Peak District National Park. Wandering around the quaint courtyards filled with shops and tearooms, the smell of roses filled the air as they walked past Bath Gardens. The Gardens are immaculately maintained with benches to enjoy some tranquillity in the heart of the town. Heading to the River Wye, paddling ducks enjoying the glorious weather and the Bakewell Bridge with its Gothic pointed arches looking stunning in the sunshine, their time was well spent before heading back to Buxton.

Buxton Crescent, a heritage experience, is an accessible all-weather attraction that was next visited. Built to rival Bath in 1786, the building has had many changes even standing empty from 1992 before Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust brought it back to life. An excellent guide took them through the different rooms and explained the amazing history of the building and area.

Mary Queen of Scots stayed at the next hotel they visited, The Old Hall from 1573 to 1584 to take the waters, so our Queens followed for a show round.

As the Buxton Well Dressing took place 3-12 July 2026, it was lovely to see the town so vibrant and colourful.

Click here to view our Secrets of the Peak District tour.