What to expect
Historic Buxton
Magnificent Chatsworth House
Welcome to Derbyshire for our new three night break in the pretty, historic town of Buxton. We’ll enjoy a tour of Buxton to soak up its rich heritage, and spend a day marvelling at the beautiful architecture of Chatsworth House, an incredible example of a classic English stately home in the heart of the Peak District.
Welcome to Buxton and the Old Hall Hotel. Check-in is at leisure during the afternoon. When evening comes, we’ll meet for a welcome drink, followed by dinner together in the hotel restaurant.
After breakfast, our guide will meet us to begin our walking tour of Buxton – which boasts a rich heritage from Stone Age settlers to Edwardian splendour. Our guide will lead us around the historic centre and beyond, to the inspiring architecture, fantastic attractions and hidden gems that make Buxton the place it is today.
Our first stop will be the famous Crescent, built by the fifth Duke of Devonshire in the 1780s to provide accommodation for visitors attracted to the town by the health-giving Spa. We then continue on to visit the Natural Baths, Pump
Room, Market Place and Pavilion Gardens.
Chatsworth is indisputably the jewel in the crown of the Peak District. Home to the Cavendish family since the 16th Century, Chatsworth House is a magnificent English country house set in over 1,000 acres of parkland. We enjoy a self-guided visit to the 30 rooms open to the public, each with stunning interiors. Explore the magnificent Painted Hall, regal State Rooms, restored Sketch Galleries and beautiful Sculpture Gallery. We can then take time to explore the formal gardens designed by the renowned Capability Brown, and perhaps enjoy a bite to eat at the café (lunch not included).
After breakfast, if you are not in a hurry to leave, you may like to take stroll back into town. Rooms should be vacated by 11.00am. However, luggage may be left with reception until you are ready to leave.
The Old Hall Hotel is reputed to be the oldest hotel in England! The building dates back to 1573 when Mary Queen of Scots stayed. Today, it offers traditional character and a great location in Buxton with all amenities on its doorstep.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar and lounge area. WIFI is available throughout.
Rooms feature en suite bathroom, twin double bed, tea/coffee making facilities and hairdryer.
Frequently Asked Questions
The hotel is located in Buxton which can be reached using the A53 and A6. The closest train station is Buxton, which is a 10 minute walk from the hotel or just a short taxi journey.
Car parking is available in front of and opposite the hotel. A permit can be obtained from reception on check-in, at a cost of £3 per day.
There is often confusion on the question of gratuities, since it frequently depends on the type of holiday, location and, of course, your attitude towards tipping, as to what is normally expected. In order to give you a rough idea, we have given appropriate guidance below.
The Tour Leader will be on hand to offer advice or suggestions if required but gratuities are offered entirely at the sole discretion of the individual. We suggest a group collection at the beginning of your holiday to cover drivers, guides and hotel staff (including restaurant, kitchen and reception staff) of approximately £15. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip. The tipping of bar staff and housekeeping will be left to your individual discretion (the rounding up of the drinks bill and a small amount left in your room on departure should cover this and would be much appreciated). As is customary, ‘the hat’ will be passed around for the driver and guide on all optional excursions. For any meals that are not included in your itinerary, restaurants expect a 10% gratuity (do check that service has not already been added to your bill). For taxis 10% of the metered fare.
The dress code for during the day is casual. Comfortable shoes for walking and sightseeing are recommended. Eveningwear is smart/casual.
Average Temperatures
| Month(s) | Highest temperature | Lowest temperature |
|---|---|---|
| January - February | 6 °C | 1 °C |
| March | 9 °C | 2 °C |
| April | 11 °C | 3 °C |
| May | 15 °C | 6 °C |
| June | 18 °C | 9 °C |
| July - August | 20 °C | 11 °C |
| September | 17 °C | 9 °C |
| October | 14 °C | 7 °C |
| November | 9 °C | 3 °C |
| December | 7 °C | 2 °C |
“I’m sure you will enjoy it, I have been on three solos holidays to date and the people I’ve met have been great.”
“I’ve been travelling with Solos for nearly 20 years, on and off. The reason is for exactly what you want – you meet like minded people… and have loads of fun!”
“I’ve been on loads of trips with Solos over the years and can honestly say you will not regret booking your 1st one!”
“The feeling you have once you go away on your own is worth all the nerves before! I was so very anxious the first time but now having done it 4 times, I love it!”
