Pavilion Gardens Events and What’s On for 2026 – Ideal Family Day Out
Pavilion Gardens Buxton, St. John’s Road, Buxton, SK17 6BE
T: 01298 23114
2026 Opening Times
Please note at quieter times the building may close earlier.
- Main Building and Pavilion Kitchen – Open daily 10am – 4.30pm
- Adventure Play Area – Open daily
- Lakeside Kiosk/Hut – Open weekends and school holidays only (weather dependent)
- Toddler’s Soft Play Area (inside the Pavilion Kitchen) – Open daily 10am – 4.30pm
- Gallery in the Gardens art gallery – Open daily 10am – 4.30pm. Home to the High Peak Artists groups, the gallery showcases more than 40 local artist’s works covering a multitude of disciplines including various forms of painting; printmaking, photography, ceramics, sculpture, glass, wood, textiles & jewellery.
- Boating Lake – Open from April until October (weekends and school holidays, weather dependent)
- Gardens – Always open
- Restaurant and Bar – Open Saturdays and Sunday only, 9.30am – 3pm
- Ice Cream Parlour – Open daily 10am – 4.30pm
- Pavilion Gardens Miniature Train – Open 11am – 4pm at weekends and school holidays only (weather dependent)
- Toilets – Toilets across the park are currently open from 9.30am to 5pm daily
If you’re looking for whats on in Buxton, The Pavilion Gardens in Buxton offers a wide variety of events every week throughout the year. It is a splendid example of Victorian landscaping, spanning 23 acres of beautifully designed gardens and walkways. This scenic park, established in 1871, features a historic Conservatory and intricately manicured lawns interspersed with vibrant floral displays.
It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a serene retreat with its picturesque landscapes, water features, a Boating Lake and miniature train. There’s dining for everyone at the Pavilion Restaurant and Bar, plus family friendly dining at the Pavilion Kitchen. It is the ideal day out for all the family! The perfect place to take a relaxing stroll, the park is uber dog friendly.
What is there to see and do at Pavilion Gardens? Here’s everything you need to know to plan our visit to one of Buxton’s best loved family attractions, with lots to see every day and special events taking place every weekend:
There is a year round programme of events of markets, fairs and children’s activities as well as special events during Easter, summer and at Christmas.
Pavilion Kitchen offers casual dining, ideal for families including light snacks, freshly made pizza, hot and cold drinks, ice-cream and more.
The Restaurant & Bar at the Pavilion Gardens can seat up to 100 people in their superbly spacious area overlooking the Promenade and Gardens. The team of chefs are very proud of the dishes they serve and work extremely hard to ensure you are given a delicious and tasty meal.
Ice Cream Parlour offers more than 24 flavours of ice cream!
Outdoor seating area with picnic tables.
The Boating Lake boasting 11 boats; 11 boats: 5 pedalos and 6 rowing boats – with each one allowing up to 4 people. The cost is £10 per boat for up to 4 people for 30 minutes, or £14 per boat for up to 4 people for 45 minutes. Boats are available 10.30am Monday – Saturday with last admission at 4pm, and from 12.30pm on Sundays, with last admission at 4pm.
Public toilets
All toilets across the park are open currently open from 9.30am to 5pm daily.
Changing Places toilet
There are several disabled toilets within the Pavilion Gardens building, including a “Changing Places” facility. The car park and kiosk toilets are accessible by use of a Radar key. If you have other specific needs, please contact the Pavilion Gardens and they will endeavour to help you.
Parking at Pavilion Gardens
Along St John’s Road (SK17 9AR) you will find the on-site Pavilion Gardens car park. The car park is owned and managed by High Peak Borough Council. Looking for an alternative car park? More information on parking in Buxton can be found here.
The on-site car park has 199 spaces. Please note: Changes have been made to the undercroft of Pavilion Gardens Car Park and part of the undercroft is now reserved for Buxton Crescent Hotel only. There is no public pay and display parking within this restricted area. There are available public pay and display parking bays in the undercroft area of the Pavilion Gardens. These are a for use between the hours of 8am to 6 pm only. Members of the public must pay and display when using the public area of the undercroft. The undercroft gates will be locked at 6pm and access will not be available to pay and display customers to retrieve vehicles until 8am, the following morning.
There are 15 disabled spaces and also toilets in this car park.
Parking is on a pay and display basis.
After 6pm – car parking is free.
Blue badge holders are free.
Charges apply Monday to Sunday from 8am – 6pm.
Coach Parking
Coaches can drop their passengers off on the Promenade by prior arrangement. Coach parking is available on Burlington Road (SK17 9AY).
They also offer a £10 driver voucher for refreshments & pre-bookable free coach parking on the promenade (subject to availability – please contact the Pavilion Gardens prior to your visit – please see contact details above.).
Additionally the Sylvan Coach park is situated off the roundabout at the intersection of the A6/A53. For directions you can contact the Pavilion Gardens.
Disabled Access
The ground floor in the Pavilion Gardens main building is accessible to wheelchair users throughout and there is a wheelchair accessible lift from the ground floor foyer to the Pavilion Arts Centre, which is also accessible from St. Johns Road.
The Pavilion Arts Centre is still split level, so wheelchair users will only be able to access the entrance level area. There are several disabled toilets within the Pavilion Gardens building, and also the car park and kiosk area. The car park and kiosk toilets are accessible by use of a Radar key. If you have other specific needs, please contact the team and they will endeavour to help you.
Latest Events at Pavilion Gardens 2026
Pavilion Gardens in Buxton is a vibrant hub for events and activities throughout the year, offering something for everyone. From artisan markets and food festivals to live music performances and family-friendly attractions, the gardens is a lively destination no matter the season.
Here are the latest upcoming events taking place this in 2026:
Afternoon Tea Dance
When: 21st April 2026, 1pm – 4pm
No booking required – simply turn up and pay on the door and enjoy an afternoon of music, dancing and good company.
Coach parties welcome. For group enquiries, please contact [email protected]
A perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon in one of Buxton’s most iconic venues.
Entry / Cost: £10 person, includes tea, coffee & biscuits
Antiques and Collectors Fair
When: 25th & 26th April 2026, 9am – 4.30pm
The popular two day fairs at the Pavilion Gardens take place throughout the year.
Over 100 quality stalls will fill the room with a wide range of items. If you are looking to add to you home, garden, wardrobe or collection it’s the place to visit.
Entry / Cost: Adults £2.50, Concessions £2, Accompanied children free.
Bands on the Bandstand: Glossop Old Band
When: 26th April 2026, 2pm – 4pm
Enjoy the traditional sounds of a brass band!
Entry / Cost: Free
H&H Classic Car Auction
When: 27th – 30th April 2026
An auction of classic, collector, and performance motorcars to be held in the beautiful surroundings of the Pavilion Gardens, Buxton.
Established in 1993, H&H has sold some of the world’s most significant motorcars and motorcycles over the past 30 years. Trusted by over 75,000 clients worldwide, we are the longest established auction house of our kind in Europe and the only one owned and managed by its employees.
Bidding can take place live, online via the H&H website, by telephone and commission.
Viewing:
Tuesday 28th April from 1pm / Wednesday 29th April from 9am
Auction:
Wednesday April 30th from 12pm
Bands on the Bandstand: Panatonic All Stars
When: 3rd May 2026, 12pm – 4pm
Enjoy the unique sounds of this fantastic band!
Entry / Cost: Free
Buxton Comic Con
When: 4th May 2026, 10am – 4pm
Stalls
🦸 Costumers & Cosplay
📸 Character Meet & Greets
🎮 Retro Gaming
🎭 Backdrops & Props
🏆 Cosplay Competitions
Entry / Cost: Free
Bands on the Bandstand: Peak District Big Band
When: 4th May 2026, 2pm – 4pm
Enjoy the traditional sounds of a brass band!
Entry / Cost: Free
Outdoor Thursday Market
When: 7th May 2026, 10am – 3pm each day and First & Third Thursday of every month
Browse a great mix of local traders, handmade goods, unique gifts, and delicious treats – perfect for a relaxed midweek wander. Whether you’re shopping for something special, meeting friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Entry / Cost: Free
Afternoon Tea Dance
When: 19th May 2026, 1pm – 4pm
No booking required – simply turn up and pay on the door and enjoy an afternoon of music, dancing and good company.
Coach parties welcome. For group enquiries, please contact [email protected]
A perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon in one of Buxton’s most iconic venues.
Entry / Cost: £10 person, includes tea, coffee & biscuits
Outdoor Thursday Market
When: 21st May 2026, 10am – 3pm each day and First & Third Thursday of every month
Browse a great mix of local traders, handmade goods, unique gifts, and delicious treats – perfect for a relaxed midweek wander. Whether you’re shopping for something special, meeting friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Outdoor Thursday Market
When: 4th June 2026, 10am – 3pm each day and First & Third Thursday of every month
Browse a great mix of local traders, handmade goods, unique gifts, and delicious treats – perfect for a relaxed midweek wander. Whether you’re shopping for something special, meeting friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Afternoon Tea Dance
When: 9th June 2026, 1pm – 4pm
No booking required – simply turn up and pay on the door and enjoy an afternoon of music, dancing and good company.
Coach parties welcome. For group enquiries, please contact [email protected]
A perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon in one of Buxton’s most iconic venues.
Entry / Cost: £10 person, includes tea, coffee & biscuits
Antiques and Collectors Fair
When: 13th & 14th June 2026, 9am – 4.30pm
The popular two day fairs at the Pavilion Gardens take place throughout the year.
Over 100 quality stalls will fill the room with a wide range of items. If you are looking to add to you home, garden, wardrobe or collection it’s the place to visit.
Entry / Cost: Adults £2.50, Concessions £2, Accompanied children free.
Outdoor Thursday Market
When: 18th June 2026, 10am – 3pm each day and First & Third Thursday of every month
Browse a great mix of local traders, handmade goods, unique gifts, and delicious treats – perfect for a relaxed midweek wander. Whether you’re shopping for something special, meeting friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Outdoor Thursday Market
When: 2nd July 2026, 10am – 3pm each day and First & Third Thursday of every month
Browse a great mix of local traders, handmade goods, unique gifts, and delicious treats – perfect for a relaxed midweek wander. Whether you’re shopping for something special, meeting friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Afternoon Tea Dance
When: 2nd July 2026, 1pm – 4pm
No booking required – simply turn up and pay on the door and enjoy an afternoon of music, dancing and good company.
Coach parties welcome. For group enquiries, please contact [email protected]
A perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon in one of Buxton’s most iconic venues.
Entry / Cost: £10 person, includes tea, coffee & biscuits
Art in the Octagon hosted by High Peak Artists
When: 13th – 15th July 2026, 10am – 5pm
High Peak Artists annual art extravaganza in the Octagon by some of the best artists & makers in the area. Demonstrations on every stand with special guest artists. Paintings, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, printmaking, wood turning, photography and lots more. Part of Buxton Festival Fringe.
Entry / Cost: Free
Outdoor Thursday Market
When: 16th July 2026, 10am – 3pm each day and First & Third Thursday of every month
Browse a great mix of local traders, handmade goods, unique gifts, and delicious treats – perfect for a relaxed midweek wander. Whether you’re shopping for something special, meeting friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Outdoor Thursday Market
When: 6th August 2026, 10am – 3pm each day and First & Third Thursday of every month
Browse a great mix of local traders, handmade goods, unique gifts, and delicious treats – perfect for a relaxed midweek wander. Whether you’re shopping for something special, meeting friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Antiques and Collectors Fair
When: 8th & 9th August 2026, 9am – 4.30pm
The popular two day fairs at the Pavilion Gardens take place throughout the year.
Over 100 quality stalls will fill the room with a wide range of items. If you are looking to add to you home, garden, wardrobe or collection it’s the place to visit.
Entry / Cost: Adults £2.50, Concessions £2, Accompanied children free.
Buxton Health & Healing Festival
When: 15th & 16th August 2026, 9am – 4.30pm
Join us for a relaxing and inspiring weekend at one of Buxton’s most loved wellbeing events. Set in the stunning Octagon Hall, right in the heart of the beautiful Pavilion Gardens, this festival is the perfect place to explore, unwind and reconnect.
What to expect:
• Over 55 exhibitors in a bright, welcoming space
• 2 rooms of talks & workshops running throughout the weekend
• Independent retailers, therapists and holistic practitioners
• Massage treatments, sound baths, psychic readings and more
• Vitamins, supplements, organic beauty, candles, essential oils, jewellery, crystals and lots of lovely treats
Entry / Cost: 1 Day: Adult £6 | Concession £5 | 2 Day: Adult £11 | Concession £9 | Children under 16: FREE
Outdoor Thursday Market
When: 20th August 2026, 10am – 3pm each day and First & Third Thursday of every month
Browse a great mix of local traders, handmade goods, unique gifts, and delicious treats – perfect for a relaxed midweek wander. Whether you’re shopping for something special, meeting friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Toy Fair
When: 30th August 2026, 10.30 am – 3pm
The long-running Buxton Toy Collectors Fair has 150 stalls featuring a wide range of new and old collectables for sale.
Entry / Cost: Admission fees: Adults – £3.50, Senior Citizens – £3, Children £1 – (under 5s free), (Early Entry from 8am – £7)
Outdoor Thursday Market
When: 3rd September 2026, 10am – 3pm each day and First & Third Thursday of every month
Browse a great mix of local traders, handmade goods, unique gifts, and delicious treats – perfect for a relaxed midweek wander. Whether you’re shopping for something special, meeting friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Antiques and Collectors Fair
When: 5th & 6th September 2026, 9am – 4.30pm
The popular two day fairs at the Pavilion Gardens take place throughout the year.
Over 100 quality stalls will fill the room with a wide range of items. If you are looking to add to you home, garden, wardrobe or collection it’s the place to visit.
Entry / Cost: Adults £2.50, Concessions £2, Accompanied children free.
Afternoon Tea Dance
When: 8th September 2026, 1pm – 4pm
No booking required – simply turn up and pay on the door and enjoy an afternoon of music, dancing and good company.
Coach parties welcome. For group enquiries, please contact [email protected]
A perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon in one of Buxton’s most iconic venues.
Entry / Cost: £10 person, includes tea, coffee & biscuits
Outdoor Thursday Market
When: 17th September 2026, 10am – 3pm each day and First & Third Thursday of every month
Browse a great mix of local traders, handmade goods, unique gifts, and delicious treats – perfect for a relaxed midweek wander. Whether you’re shopping for something special, meeting friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Toy Fair
When: 4th October 2026, 10.30 am – 3pm
The long-running Buxton Toy Collectors Fair has 150 stalls featuring a wide range of new and old collectables for sale.
Entry / Cost: Admission fees: Adults – £3.50, Senior Citizens – £3, Children £1 – (under 5s free), (Early Entry from 8am – £7)
Afternoon Tea Dance
When: 20th October 2026, 1pm – 4pm
No booking required – simply turn up and pay on the door and enjoy an afternoon of music, dancing and good company.
Coach parties welcome. For group enquiries, please contact [email protected]
A perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon in one of Buxton’s most iconic venues.
Entry / Cost: £10 person, includes tea, coffee & biscuits
Antiques and Collectors Fair
When: 23rd & 24th October 2026, 9am – 4.30pm
The popular two day fairs at the Pavilion Gardens take place throughout the year.
Over 100 quality stalls will fill the room with a wide range of items. If you are looking to add to you home, garden, wardrobe or collection it’s the place to visit.
Entry / Cost: Adults £2.50, Concessions £2, Accompanied children free.
Afternoon Tea Dance
When: 24th November 2026, 1pm – 4pm
No booking required – simply turn up and pay on the door and enjoy an afternoon of music, dancing and good company.
Coach parties welcome. For group enquiries, please contact [email protected]
A perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon in one of Buxton’s most iconic venues.
Entry / Cost: £10 person, includes tea, coffee & biscuits
Antiques and Collectors Fair
When: 28th & 29th November 2026, 9am – 4.30pm
The popular two day fairs at the Pavilion Gardens take place throughout the year.
Over 100 quality stalls will fill the room with a wide range of items. If you are looking to add to you home, garden, wardrobe or collection it’s the place to visit.
Entry / Cost: Adults £2.50, Concessions £2, Accompanied children free.
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