Bakewell Hotels

Where to stay in Bakewell

Central Bakewell

When considering a stay in central Bakewell, guests are treated to a charming mix of historic allure and modern conveniences. Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, the town centre offers a collection of cosy inns and boutique hotels, perfect for those who enjoy being at the heart of the action. Staying here means having the town's delightful cafes, shops, and the famous Bakewell pudding at one's fingertips. Popular hotel options in central Bakewell often boast amenities like complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and on-site dining, making it a convenient choice for travellers.

Riverside locations

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the gentle murmur of a river, and the riverside hotels in Bakewell offer just that. These accommodations provide a tranquil retreat with stunning views of the River Wye, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Notable riverside hotels often feature charming gardens, terraces, and even direct access to riverside walks. Guests staying by the river will find themselves a stone's throw from local attractions such as the Bakewell Bridge and the Old House Museum, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

Countryside retreats

For those seeking a peaceful escape, the countryside retreats around Bakewell are a dream come true. Located just outside the town, these hotels offer a serene setting amidst rolling hills and lush greenery. Guests can look forward to unique experiences like staying in converted barns or cosy farmhouses, each offering a slice of rural life. Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to the stunning landscapes of the Peak District National Park, providing ample opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventures.

Family-friendly areas

Bakewell is a fantastic destination for families, with a range of hotels offering family-friendly amenities such as spacious rooms, play areas, and even babysitting services. Staying in these areas provides easy access to family attractions like the Peak District National Park and the Heights of Abraham. Tips for families include booking a hotel with a swimming pool or extra activities for kids, ensuring that little ones are entertained throughout their stay.

Luxury accommodations

For those looking to indulge, Bakewell offers a selection of high-end hotels and boutique stays that promise a touch of luxury. These accommodations boast exclusive services such as spa treatments, gourmet dining, and personalised concierge services, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a lavish getaway. With their elegant interiors and attention to detail, these hotels provide an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Peak District.

Budget-friendly options

Travellers on a budget will find plenty of affordable hotels and guesthouses in Bakewell that provide excellent value for money. These budget-friendly accommodations often include essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi and complimentary breakfast, ensuring a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. The best times to find deals are typically outside of the peak tourist season, allowing visitors to enjoy the charm of Bakewell at a fraction of the cost.

Pet-friendly hotels

For those who can't bear to leave their furry friends behind, Bakewell offers a selection of pet-friendly hotels that welcome pets with open arms. These accommodations often provide facilities such as dog beds, water bowls, and even pet-sitting services. With nearby pet-friendly areas like the Monsal Trail, pet owners can enjoy scenic walks and nature trails, making it an ideal location for a holiday with a four-legged companion. Booking tips for pet owners include checking the hotel's pet policy in advance and confirming any additional fees or restrictions.

Bakewell is actually named after a well and almost became a spa town, but its water was not warm enough. The Bath House is not open to the public, but make sure you visit Bakewell Bath Gardens, a flower-filled riot of colour presided over by an enormous hornbeam tree.

Innumerable painters and photographers have captured the image of the river running through the town, bordered by willow trees and traversed by its five-arched bridge. The bridge is one of the oldest in the country – it dates from 1200AD – and an Ancient Monument.

The Bakewell pudding

Legend has it that the Bakewell pudding was created by mistake, when a cook at the Rutland Arms misunderstood a jam tart recipe. At the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop in The Square, you can sample a freshly baked version of the traditional treat and have a go at making it yourself. Groups of 20 or more can also book a guided tour of the premises, which are actually a shop, bakery, deli and restaurant. You'll find freshly baked breads and cakes, tarts, cheeses, local ales, chutneys, jam, honey and more on sale. For more Bakewell puddings, head to Bloomers of Bakewell and the Bakewell Tart Shop and Coffee House.

The Old House Museum

The building which contains the Old House Museum dates back to 1543, making it one of the oldest in Bakewell. Here you can learn all about the history of the town. You'll explore Tudor rooms with wattle and daub partitions, see a Tudor toilet, find out what life was like in a Victorian mill worker's home and discover old-fashioned toys. For kids, there's a Tudor dressing-up box, a dolls' house to play with, and skipping ropes, hula hoops and games in the courtyard. There are also artists in residence throughout the year. The museum is open from 11:00 to 16:00, usually from March to November.

Peak District National Park

From Bakewell hotels, The dramatic landscapes of the Peak District National Park can be explored on foot, on a bike, on horseback or through a guided walk. You can also go sailing, windsurfing and canoeing on one of the reservoirs, fishing in the rivers or caving in Titan Cave at Castleton, the UK's highest natural cavern.

The park is home to a vast array of wildlife, including hares, bats, hedgehogs, otters, pine martens, adders, lizards, great crested newts, slowworms and the Peak District Brown Argus butterfly. Birdwatchers should look out for black grouse, red grouse, golden plovers, grasshopper warblers, grey partridges, hen harriers, lesser-spotted woodpeckers, linnets, nightjars, ring ouzels, yellow wagtails and yellowhammers.

Chatsworth House

Set in 1,000 acres of parkland and overlooking the River Derwent, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire has more than 30 rooms to explore. The house is also home to a significant art collection, including Old Masters, ancient Egyptian artefacts, ceramics, sculpture and computer portraits. In the beautifully kept gardens you'll find fountains, a maze, a rockery, a rose garden, a cottage garden, streams and ponds. You can also explore the parkland beyond, home to deer, sheep and cattle. For kids, there's a working farmyard and adventure playground.