Perfectly placed in the heart of the Peak District, Buxton offers easy access to some of England’s most inspiring landscapes, charming villages, and historic landmarks. Whether you’re enjoying a guided, self-guided walking or special interest holiday, there’s always the opportunity to linger for longer. Here’s our pick of the very best things to see and do within easy travelling distance of the Lee Wood Hotel in Buxton.
The Peak District’s best-loved landscapes
Step straight into the Peak District National Park, where a network of well-maintained trails leads you through dramatic dales, rolling hills and rugged moorland. Discover the limestone valleys of Dovedale and Monsal Dale, with their iconic stepping stones and sweeping views, or explore the wild beauty of the Dark Peak, where gritstone edges like Kinder Scout and Stanage Edge offer a more dramatic backdrop.
Buxton’s heritage, gardens & caves
Closer to home, Buxton itself is rich in history. As England's highest market spa town at 1,000 feet above sea level, there’s more to this place than water. The town’s spa heritage and leafy parks make it an ideal place to relax after a day in the hills. Stroll around the elegant Georgian Crescent, explore the beautiful Pavilion Gardens, or visit the historic Opera House to catch a show in an authentic Edwardian theatre. From musicals and stand-up comedy to operatic performances, including the world-famous International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival every August, it's one of the Midlands' prime entertainment venues. Poole's Cavern is also well worth a visit – a two-million-year-old natural limestone cave.
Historic houses and stately grandeur - Chatsworth House, Bakewell & Castleton
The surrounding countryside is dotted with picturesque villages, each with its own charm. Home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, this magnificent 17th century mansion is set in over 1,000 acres of stunning parkland and formal gardens. Inside, there are over 30 rooms to explore, including the State Rooms, Sculpture Gallery, and Painted Hall. Castleton, located at the head of the Hope Valley, is known for its caves: Peak Cavern, Blue John Cavern, Speedwell Cavern, and Treak Cliff Cavern - and historic Peveril Castle, while Bakewell offers riverside walks and its famous pudding. Closer to Buxton, villages like Tideswell – home to the impressive “Cathedral of the Peak” – provide welcoming pubs, local history, and a slower pace of life. Haddon Hall, overlooking the River Wye, is a fairytale-like manor house with its fortified exterior dates from the 12th century. Every part of the property is steeped in history, but the banqueting hall, chapel, and kitchens are particularly worth exploring.
Cromford Mills
Part of the UNESCO-listed Derwent Valley Mills, the world's first water-powered cotton spinning mill developed by Richard Arkwright in 1771 is known as the birthplace of the modern factory system. The mill museum and visitor centre are both worth visiting.
Dovedale Stepping Stones
The limestone valley of Dovedale steals the limelight as one of the best-loved – and most visited – beauty spots in the Peak District National Park. Don’t miss the famous stepping stones located about half a mile from the car park (check the National Trust website for news of Stepping Stones opening/access due to repairs).
Trails, railways and scenic routes
Enjoy traffic-free walking and cycling along the Monsal Trail, following a former railway line through tunnels and across viaducts with spectacular views. For a nostalgic day out, the Peak Rail heritage railway offers a leisurely journey through the Derwent Valley, while the surrounding area is crisscrossed with gentle routes perfect for guided and self-guided exploration. Crich Tramway Village - a recreated Edwardian-style village and home to the National Tramway Museum is located near the village of Crich. Highlights include the woodland walk, sculpture trail, and collection of over 60 trams built between 1873 and 1982.
