I absolutely love the Peak District. Particularly the area around Bakewell and the Chatsworth Estate. Living in Sheffield for 8 years with it literally on my doorstep was wonderful and many a weekend was spent out in the area; walking, eating and exploring.
The town of Bakewell itself has changed a lot over the years, none more so we thought than on our most recent trip back to the area. Obviously it’s famous for the Bakewell tart and has always had its’ fair share of little shops and bakeries selling the aforementioned sweet treat, but more recently it seems to be even more of a foodie hub, with a couple of farm shops, a sweet shop, old school ice cream parlour and some nice looking cafés too.
The river running through the town is really picturesque, and so is the stone building work that makes up the town. It’s the epitome of quaint, and the only downside; it’s always busy!
We had a mid morning break in Ice Creams & Dreams, the newish Ice cream parlour and enjoyed a couple of lovely milkshakes in a very retro candy striped booth.
A meander around the shops ensued, and we picked up some goodies from the places below, including a couple of original Bakewell Tarts.
For eating something more substantial in the town there are numerous pubs, none of which have blown us away in the past, but there is now a branch of the ‘Pointing Dog’ Restaurants which we have yet to try as well as some really good Fish and Chips at the Bakewell Fish Restaurant and some good café style food at The Honey Bun.
A few miles from Bakewell and you can find yourself on the Chatsworth Estate. Here there is a really fantastic farm shop – a regular haunt of ours back when we lived up North. There is a huge butcher, fishmongers and Deli, as well as fresh fruit and veg and lots of pantry items. Have a look below at some of the fab produce on offer.
Also nearby is the little village of Baslow, home to Fischers at Baslow Hall, a Michelin starred Country House and Restaurant. Just over 10 years ago this was my first experience of Michelin starred food – for my 21st birthday, and I’ve not looked back since! It’s also home to Rowleys Restaurant, also in the Good Food Guide, and you can read about our most recent trip here.
I’m sure there’s still much more in the area we’ve yet to discover – Have you been exploring in the Peak District? I’d love to know about your hidden gems!
Roz :)
