The majestic Buxton Crescent Hotel & Spa was rebuilt for aristocrats to enjoy the finer things in life back in the 18th century. It is not only the great and good who are able to experience five-star luxury in the historic Cresent these days following a multi-million-pound redevelopment.
Spa-seekers have flocked to the elegant Derbyshire town of Buxton since the Roman times to enhance their wellbeing. They continue to come from far and wide, with more than just the pure healing thermal water to sample these days in the classy 81-room Crescent. The reincarnation of two once-upon-a-time, grand and gracious hotels, it is the perfect place to unwind on the fringe of the beautiful Peak District National Park.
Blending The Old and the New
Built in the 1780s by the fifth Duke of Devonshire as the centrepiece of a Georgian spa development, Buxton Crescent is steeped in history. The reopening of such a grand old building four years ago – 17 years after work started – was well worth what was such a long wait. An architectural masterpiece that you can only gaze at in awe and wonder how they went about constructing with such incredible detail all those years ago, the Grade I listed landmark truly is a sight to behold. Setting foot in the Crescent for the first time, I marvelled at the lavish interior – with chandeliers hanging from high ceilings and magnificent antique pictures adorning the walls.
Hitting New Heights
While the Crescent has been the place to go for rejuvenation and purity for centuries, the spa facilities now on offer have taken it to another level. I’d soon forgot about the cold outside as I was treated to a Himalayan Salt Massage – with warm salt blocks detoxifying the body, setting the tone for the most relaxing of escapes. I felt as if I was drifting off staring up at a stained-glass canopy while taking a dip in a unique thermal pool – filled with Buxton mineral rich water. There are a variety of steam rooms and saunas along with an ice fountain and a salt cave. Up above, you can swim from inside to take in fresh air in a rooftop pool.
Accommodation
My spacious Crescent Suite offered a lovely view of The Slopes – Georgian landscaped gardens – and the Grade II listed Pump Room, where I learned all about the history of Buxton. Features such as a fireplace in a large living area made for a homely feet, while there was a huge roll-top bath to indulge in with a glass of champagne. I slept like a baby in the most comfortable king-sized four-poster bed. Junior Suites and three different types of rooms are also available.
Dining like a Duke
I could imagine noblemen and women holding an extravagant banquet in the huge dining room where I tucked into a fabulous evening meal. A succulent Wood Pigeon Breast starter was a treat for the taste buds and the Heritage Striploin of English Beef was fit for a king. Blackberry Ice Parfait rounded off a delicious dinner in a special setting, with a lovely ambience and buzz.I was also spoilt for choice from an extensive wine list, but the fruity Malbec from Mendoza with a touch of spice went down a treat. I then retreated to the hotel bar – the Lounge – to cap the night off with a lovely Whiskey Sour.
Opera, Arcades and the Great Outdoors
Just around the corner from the Crescent, you can be entertained and take in incredible architecture in the iconic Buxton Opera House, which opened back in 1903. Browse in a variety of shops in quaint shopping arcades or take a wander just across the road from the hotel to take a stroll in the magnificent sanctuary of the Pavilion Gardens. With air as fresh as the Buxton water, you can also discover the glorious Peak District before returning to the Crescent to put your feet up.
This property is included in our guide to the best hotels in the Peak District
Article by Pete Thompson
Contact Details
Website: ensanahotels.com
Address: The Crescent, Buxton SK17 6BH
