Explore Bakewell

Find out why this Peak District favourite makes for a wonderful Weekend Escape

The Bakewell Pudding Shop

With its pleasant bustle and reputation partly founded on its famous tarts and puddings, Bakewell exudes the atmosphere of a town twice its size.

There are many reasons behind the popularity of this Peak District gem. From world-class walking to award-winning dining, here are our rated recommendations for a Bakewell Weekend Escape.

Things to do in Bakewell

This thriving town is the largest inside the Peak District National Park – its central location makes it the ideal base for a walking holiday. There are several popular routes from the town’s doorstep, including the Derbyshire Dales Nature Reserve which boasts five of the White Peak’s finest limestone dales.

If the weather’s not on your side, you can still get a sense of the area’s dramatic landscapes with a visit to the Bakewell Visitor Centre. Serving as the Peak District National Park Information Centre, this fully accessible space houses a photographic gallery showcasing the stunning work of local landscape photographers.

For a more leisurely day’s walking, enjoy a pleasant stroll along the River Wye which runs like a living, flowing artery through the town – a favourite pastime for visitors and locals alike is to feed the ducks and swans along the riverbank. On your wanderings you’ll come across the town’s striking five-arched 14th-century bridge, which is one of the oldest of its kind in the UK. Spend a moment or two here taking in the views and watching the trout contest with the ducks for food.

Bakewell is also surrounded by some of England’s most elegant and timeless stately homes. Venture to Haddon Hall and see the past brought to life within the walls of this magnificent example of a fortified manor house. The beautiful Chatsworth estate is also just three miles from the town, and is home to one of Europe’s most significant art collections.

Chatsworth

It almost goes without saying that a visit to Bakewell must include a sampling of the town’s famous gastronomic creation. Most locals will tell you it’s a pudding, not a tart – there are plenty of establishments (several of which lay claim to the original recipe) where you can order a slice and decide for yourself.

If you find yourself extending your weekend stay, spend your Monday browsing Bakewell’s 600-year-old market. There’s no better place to pick up delicious local produce and gifts that make perfect souvenirs.