Bakewell lies on the banks of the River Wye and has a medieval stone bridge with five arches. You can combine different interests during your stay: early architectural history, wildlife watching by the river, a route through limestone dales and Bakewell Pudding. There is also a weekly market and seasonal events, whose dates may be a factor when planning your trip.
Historic Buildings and Early Evidence
Bakewell Old House Museum was originally built as a tithe barn in 1534. The building is listed and has Grade II* status. It combines a specific architectural history with recognised historic significance.
All Saints’ Church was Bakewell’s first stone church, dates from the Anglo-Saxon period and was in use by 949 at the latest. The evidence preserved there is also found in different locations: Anglo-Saxon stones are displayed in the south porch, and two Anglo-Saxon cross shafts stand in the churchyard. You can therefore consider the church itself, the displayed stones and the cross shafts as different aspects of Bakewell’s early history.
Along the River Wye and Through the Limestone Dales
The Bakewell Family Walk follows the River Wye and offers the chance to spot water voles, kingfishers and trout. The focus here is on the river and the wildlife you may see. The Monsal Trail offers a different kind of scenery: the traffic-free route runs through the Peak District’s limestone dales and covers 8.5 miles along the former Midland Railway line between Blackwell Mill in Chee Dale and Coombs Road in Bakewell.
The Monsal Trail is a route for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and wheelchair users. The two routes therefore differ both in the kind of nature experience they describe and in their focus: the Family Walk is about the river and the chance to spot wildlife, while the Monsal Trail offers a longer route through limestone dales. If you are planning time outdoors, these different features can help you choose.
Bakewell Pudding, Market and Events
You can try Bakewell Pudding in bakeries and cafés in the town. At The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop, you can also make your own Original Bakewell Pudding in a bakery and take it home. Booking details for this experience may change, so check them before making plans.
The market in Bakewell takes place every Monday from 9 am to 4 pm at the Market Place and on Granby Road. Check the current schedule before you travel. The Bakewell Country Festival is a regular feature of the summer events calendar; specific dates and programmes vary from year to year. Bakewell Well Dressing takes place in July. If you are interested in these seasonal events, it is worth checking that year’s programme.
More Ways to Enjoy Your Stay
Golf is another option: Bakewell Golf Club was founded in 1899 and has a 9-hole course with 18 tee boxes. The club is open to members and visitors alike. If you would like to play as a visitor, check the current visitor conditions before your trip.
If you are looking for a hotel in Bakewell, first consider which dates are important for your stay. The market follows a weekly schedule, while the festival and Well Dressing are seasonal events. Match your travel dates to the relevant programmes and check the booking details if you are interested in the pudding experience. This will help you balance culture, nature and local food experiences according to your own priorities.
Discover more destinations: Hartington, Hope Valley, Long Eaton, Tideswell, Peak Forest, Stoney Middleton, Baslow, Sandiacre
For the main travel overview: Derbyshire.
