The end of the year is a great time to take stock and enjoy some well deserved time out.
We think you can’t beat bracing country air in a place that also has options for enjoying a bite to eat, sipping craft beer and visiting independent businesses.
One such place - also ideal for bypassing crowds - is Buxton.
It is widely regarded as the calmer alternative to other picturesque hotspots such as Cotswolds and Bath.
Buxton has many things in common with these aforementioned tourist magnets, namely rolling hills and honey-hued stone cottages.
I made a weekend of it during a staycation in the charming Derbyshire spa town.
Buxton may be small but it has a mighty, independent spirit.
I walked the cobbled streets, checked into the vibrant independent shopping district and soaked up the market town’s rich heritage.
I really enjoyed visiting a quaint chocolatier, housed in a unique building that brought a smile to my face.
I stayed at the grand Buxton Crescent Hotel which was luxurious and great fun.
Here is my round-up of places I visited in Buxton, and why it is a great alternative day out to Bath.
5. Cat & Fiddle Pub and Forest Distillery, Buxton Road, Macclesfield SK11 0AR
I know this pub isn’t strictly Buxton, however Cat & Fiddle is just 10 minutes away from Buxton centre. The pub is one of the highest in England,- second only to Cumbria’s The Tan Hill Inn. I was really hoping to be rewarded with stunning views from the pub that stands 1,689 feet above sea level. Alas it was a really foggy day, so that did not happen. There is also a distillery onsite where you can taste the magical elixir that is gin. As it was cold, I ordered a warming brandy instead. | Ria Ghei
6. Hargreaves & Son Ltd, 16-18 Spring Gardens Buxton SK17 6DE
I stepped back in time in one of the oldest businesses in Buxton which has been trading since 1865. The shop is filled with Victorian style furniture exuding old world vibes. My favourite is this tall dresser filled with fragrant soaps which I would also love to have in my bathroom. | Ria Ghei
7. Beer & Bean Café Bar, 8 Cavendish Circus, Buxton SK17 6AT
This coffee shop doubles up as a pub, and I found it the place to go when you have a family with varying palates. Husband enjoyed his craft beer, one of a good selection of hand-pulled pints at the bar. I really enjoyed my pistachio latte loaded with whipped cream. We managed to get a window seat and watched Buxton’s finest go about their daily life. | Ria Ghei