Bakewell is a bustling market town in Derbyshire, England. It is located in the Peak District National Park, which offers stunningly beautiful natural landscapes. The town itself has narrow winding cobbled streets and a 12th century bridge that links the old and new town across the River Wye. It is also famous for its unique Bakewell Pudding, a distinctive custard tart.
1. Parks and places for a walk on a first date
A picturesque walk through Bakewell is the perfect way to spend an afternoon with your date. Head down to the River Wye and take a walk along the picturesque winding riverside paths. The walk will take you by the stunning 12th century bridge and many of the quaint and historic buildings of Bakewell. If your date is more of an outdoor enthusiast, you can also explore Bakewell’s countryside around the town, on a hike through the rolling hills and woods of the Peak District National Park.
2. Places for a coffee date in Bakewell
If you’re looking for a more relaxed first date, why not visit one of Bakewell’s many coffee shops? Choose from the independent cafes such as The Carriages Coffee Shop or Cooper’s Coffee Shop, or the big chains like Costa Coffee and Starbucks. These coffee shops offer a cozy and comfortable atmosphere to get to know your date better.
3. Galleries, museums, and exhibitions to visit on a date
Bakewell has some interesting galleries and museums to visit. There’s the Bakewell Old House Museum, a grade I listed building that celebrates the town's history with interactive displays and a recreated Victorian garden. The Peak District Lead Mining Museum houses a rich collection of artifacts and tools used in lead mining. Or, if you’re looking for a more modern museum, the Bakewell Gallery of Modern Art has contemporary works from local and international artists.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Bakewell
Bakewell is home to some great live music and entertainment venues. The Devonshire Arms Hotel is known for its classical music recitals and folk music sessions. The local pubs like the George Hotel and the Victoria Inn also host live music from time to time. There are also regular comedy nights at The Rutland Arms and The Old Hall Inn.
5. Pubs, bars, or restaurants for a first date drink or food
If you’re looking for a more intimate dining experience for your first date, you have plenty of options in Bakewell. There are plenty of traditional pubs like The Anglers Rest, The Rutland Arms, and The George Hotel which offer a selection of beers and ciders, as well as delicious home-cooked meals. There are also more upscale restaurants like the restaurant at The Rutland Arms, which has been awarded multiple awards for their food.
6. Other date ideas to try In Bakewell
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, why not take your date to one of Bakewell’s outdoor escape rooms? Teams of two to five can test their skills as they try to solve puzzles and figure out how to escape the room. For something a bit more educational, The Bakewell Paradox offers tours of the town, showcasing its past and present history. Or, for a more romantic experience, you can take a leisurely walk through Bakewell’s parks and woodlands, or explore one of its many beautiful- but lesser-known- gardens.
