Buxton’s historic buildings tell the story of its development as a spa town. Here are five landmarks to look for around the town centre.

The Crescent

Designed by John Carr of York for the fifth Duke of Devonshire, the Grade I-listed Crescent was built in the 1780s. Its curved frontage originally included a hotel, assembly room and lodging houses. The restored building is now home to a hotel and the Buxton Crescent Experience, where visitors can explore the town’s spa history.

The Devonshire Dome

The building on Devonshire Road began as stables designed by John Carr for the Crescent. It was later adapted for hospital use, and architect Robert Rippon Duke added the great dome in the 1880s. The Grade II*-listed building is now used for education by the University of Derby.

Buxton Opera House

The theatre architect Frank Matcham designed Buxton Opera House, which opened in 1903. Look for the glass canopy and twin domed towers outside; inside, the auditorium has ornate plasterwork and painted ceiling panels. The theatre was restored and reopened in 1979.

The Pavilion and Octagon

At the edge of Pavilion Gardens, the Pavilion’s iron-and-glass structure was designed by Edward Milner. The Octagon concert hall, designed by Robert Rippon Duke, was added in 1875. The gardens themselves were laid out to Milner’s designs in 1871, incorporating elements of an earlier layout by Joseph Paxton. See the Historic England record for more on the gardens and buildings.

The Old Hall Hotel

Across The Square from the gardens, the Old Hall contains parts of a 16th-century building constructed for the Earl and Countess of Shrewsbury. It was altered and extended over the centuries and is associated with visits by Mary, Queen of Scots. Read more about The Square and its history.

Opening arrangements vary between venues, so check with each before planning a visit.