The town is perfect for an afternoon stroll and a rich history to explore
On the banks of the River Wye in the Peak District National Park is a town famous for its pudding. Believed to date back to Anglo-Saxon times, Bakewell is the largest town in the Peak District National Park. The town is home to popular attractions, scenic surroundings and, of course, is known for the Bakewell Pudding and Bakewell Tart.
The Bakewell Pudding can be traced back to the 19th century and legend suggests it originated in the kitchen of the White Horse Inn, which now operates as The Rutland Arms.
The story suggests the pudding was created due to a miscommunication between the cook and the housemaid. The inexperienced cook was asked to make a strawberry tart, but instead poured the egg mix into the pastry, creating the famous pudding.
The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop has been a popular landmark since 1860. Alongside the famous dessert, the venue sells fresh bread, afternoon tea and more.
The Peak District town itself is home to traditional pubs, restaurants and coffee shops. Bakewell’s market takes place every Monday morning, with over 160 stall holders along its Market Street. The town also hosts a number of annual events including the upcoming Derbyshire Flower & Garden Show on August 30.
Visitors can explore some of the town’s attractions including The Old House Museum housed in the oldest building in Bakewell that dates back to 1534.
Surrounding beauty spots include Monsal Head, where visitors will find stunning views down Monsal Dale and the Wye Valley. Stanton Moor, an open moorland, overlooks the Derwent and Wye Valleys. Several walking routes for the two locations can be found online.
If you’re planning on driving, Bakewell is around a two hour drive from Liverpool city centre. It is accessible via public transport, but travel can take around three hours with one or two service changes, depending on the route and time you travel.
According to the Derbyshire Dales District Council, Bakewell has a car park at the Agricultural Business Centre (DE45 1AH). It is open from 7am to 10pm and visitors can pay between £1.70 (up to one hour) or £6.60 (all day). Overnight and coach parking is also available.
For visitors planning on staying over, Bakewell is home to hotels, holiday cottages and B&Bs that can cost less than £100 per night.
