Bakewell Old House Museum
Step back in time at Bakewell Old House Museum, a Tudor gem revealing centuries of local history through interactive exhibits and family-friendly trails.
Nestled in the heart of Bakewell, Derbyshire, the Bakewell Old House Museum is a captivating Tudor-era building offering a journey through centuries of local history. Visitors explore the lives of its past inhabitants—from Tudor tithe collector Christopher Plant to mill workers housed by Sir Richard Arkwright. The museum features interactive exhibits including a rat trail, Victorian dolls’ house, and traditional games, making it a delightful experience for families and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Bakewell Old House Museum
- Cunningham Pl, Bakewell, DE45 1DD, GB
- +441629813642
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the museum is located up a steep hill accessed through a churchyard.
- Allow at least 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the house and enjoy the interactive exhibits.
- Take advantage of the Derbyshire Day Out Discount for reduced admission when visiting multiple local museums.
- Children can enjoy themed trails, dressing up, and traditional games, making it a great family outing.
- Tickets can be bought online or at the door; annual tickets allow repeat visits throughout the season.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Transpeak TP3 bus towards Buxton or Matlock, depending on your starting point. The bus stops at 'The Manners' or 'Buxton Road' stops, from which it is a short walk into Bakewell town centre and then to the museum. Travel time ranges from 20 to 45 minutes depending on the origin. Tickets typically cost around £3-£6. Service frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Coach
Coaches can drop off passengers near the museum by driving up King Street to South Church Street and reversing into Yeld Road by Church Lane. From the drop-off point, it is a 3-minute walk to the museum. Coach parking is available at the Agricultural Business Centre nearby. This option suits larger groups and guided tours.
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Walking
From Bakewell town centre, the museum is accessible by a 10-15 minute walk uphill through the churchyard. The path is steep and may be challenging for those with mobility issues, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
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Car
Parking is limited near the museum, with one space available onsite by prior arrangement. Nearby public car parks are located in Bakewell town centre, requiring a 10-15 minute walk uphill to the museum. Parking fees vary but typically range from £2 to £5 for a few hours.
Bakewell Old House Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Bakewell Old House Museum
A Tudor Legacy Preserved
The Bakewell Old House Museum stands as a remarkable example of Tudor architecture, originally built in the reign of Henry VIII as a tax collector’s cottage. Over time, it was expanded into a gentleman’s residence during the Elizabethan era, complete with a garderobe, or Tudor toilet. This historic building witnessed many transformations, including its role during the Industrial Revolution when Sir Richard Arkwright repurposed it to house his mill workers. The museum retains architectural features from these varied periods, offering visitors a tangible connection to Bakewell’s layered past.Stories Encased in Walls
Inside the museum, a rich collection of artefacts donated by local residents over the past six decades awaits discovery. These include ceramics, textiles, costumes, toys, and cameras, each with a unique story tied to the region. Artefacts found hidden within the walls themselves provide fascinating insights into daily life across centuries. Interactive QR codes throughout the museum allow visitors to hear these stories, deepening the immersive experience.Engaging Activities for All Ages
The museum is designed to be family-friendly, with special trails such as the updated Rat Trail, Scavenger Hunt, and the choose-your-own-adventure Journey with George. Children can enjoy dressing up in Tudor costumes, exploring a Victorian dolls’ house, and playing traditional outdoor games in the courtyard. Occasional craft activities and free colouring sheets add to the hands-on appeal, ensuring a fun and educational visit for both children and adults.Community and Cultural Heritage
Bakewell Old House Museum is more than a historic site; it is a community hub where volunteers eagerly welcome visitors and share the town’s heritage. The museum also offers guided tours of the building, Bakewell town, and the local church, along with talks and presentations. Its involvement in the Derbyshire Day Out Discount scheme encourages exploration of other regional museums, fostering a broader appreciation of local culture and history.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Open daily from 11am to 4pm between late March and early November, the museum provides an intimate setting on a steep hill accessed via a charming churchyard. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes due to the incline. The museum welcomes dogs and offers annual tickets valid for repeat visits. Facilities include information boards, seating areas, and accessible amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enriching visit.Architectural and Historical Significance
The Bakewell Old House Museum encapsulates centuries of English history within its walls. From Tudor tax collection to Victorian family life and Industrial Revolution workers’ housing, the building itself is a historical artefact. Its preservation offers architectural enthusiasts and history lovers a rare glimpse into evolving domestic life and social changes in Derbyshire, making it a unique cultural landmark in the Peak District.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Peak District National Park Authority
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Baslow Edge
7.5 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Carl Wark
13.7 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
High Peak Junction
15.9 km
Explore High Peak Junction, a delightful blend of natural beauty and rich industrial heritage in the heart of the Peak District.
Winnats Pass
16.3 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Winnats Pass, a limestone gorge in Hope Valley, where nature's wonders await every adventurer.
Solomon’s Temple
16.4 km
A scenic Victorian folly atop Grin Low Hill offering breathtaking 360-degree views over Buxton and the Peak District.
Bamford Edge
16.4 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Treak Cliff Cavern
16.6 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Treak Cliff Cavern in Castleton, a natural wonder filled with stunning rock formations and rich geological history.
Blue John Cavern
16.8 km
Explore the enchanting Blue John Cavern in the Peak District, a breathtaking underground world filled with stunning geological wonders and rich history.
Poole's Cavern
16.9 km
Discover the enchanting underground world of Poole's Cavern, a geological marvel nestled in the heart of Buxton's scenic country park.
Carsington Water
17.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Carsington Water, a nature reserve offering outdoor adventures, stunning views, and family-friendly activities in the heart of Derbyshire.
National Trust - Dark Peak
17.2 km
Discover the rugged beauty and rich history of the Dark Peak, a national park perfect for adventure and tranquility in the heart of the Peak District.
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet
17.4 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of Sheffield at Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, where history comes to life in a beautifully preserved setting.
Beauchief Abbey
17.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Beauchief Abbey, a gem in Sheffield's rich heritage.
Thor's Cave
17.9 km
Explore the stunning Thor's Cave in the Peak District National Park, a natural marvel perfect for hiking and adventure amidst breathtaking scenery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bakewell
0.3 km
Historic market town famed for its Bakewell tart, scenic riverside walks, and access to grand Peak District estates.
The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop
0.3 km
Historic Bakewell venue famed for its original award-winning puddings, artisan bakery, and charming British restaurant.
Bakewell Bridge
0.5 km
Explore Bakewell Bridge: A Historic Gem in the Heart of Derbyshire, Perfect for Scenic Strolls and Cultural Discoveries.
River Lathkill
2.9 km
Discover the crystal-clear River Lathkill flowing through a stunning limestone valley rich in wildlife, history, and scenic beauty near Bakewell.
Haddon Hall
2.9 km
Britain's best-preserved medieval and Tudor house—a 900-year-old time capsule where history lives.
Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop
3.6 km
Award-winning farm shop offering fresh estate-reared produce, artisanal goods, and a seasonal café experience with stunning Chatsworth views.
Magpie Mine
4.2 km
Explore Magpie Mine near Sheldon, Derbyshire — a hauntingly beautiful relic of England’s last working lead mine with over 200 years of rich industrial history.
Monsal Trail
4.6 km
Explore 8.5 miles of scenic Peak District valleys, historic railway tunnels, and iconic viaducts on the accessible Monsal Trail.
Chatsworth House
4.8 km
Explore the grandeur, gardens, and festive charm of Chatsworth House, a historic estate nestled in England’s Peak District.
Lathkill Dale
4.9 km
Explore the serene limestone valley of Lathkill Dale, where natural beauty meets rich history in the heart of England’s Peak District.
Peak Village
5.0 km
Discover Peak Village, a charming shopping and dining retreat nestled in the scenic heart of the Peak District with nature, artisan shops, and year-round events.
Dotique Peak Village
5.0 km
Relaxed shopping, seasonal dining, and nature experiences in the scenic Peak District village of Rowsley.
Nine Ladies Stone Circle
6.1 km
Explore the ancient mysteries of the Nine Ladies Stone Circle, a captivating historical landmark in the stunning Peak District of England.
Water-Cum-Jolly Dale
6.2 km
Discover Water-Cum-Jolly Dale’s peaceful river valley, historic railway viaduct, and thriving wildlife sanctuary in the heart of Derbyshire.
Cratcliffe
6.3 km
Discover Cratcliffe’s ancient hermitage and breathtaking Peak District views, a serene blend of history and nature near Matlock.
Essential places to dine
Piedaniel's
0.3 km
A charming family-run French restaurant in Bakewell offering refined cuisine, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service for memorable dining experiences.
Restaurant Lovage by Lee Smith
0.4 km
Innovative modern English cuisine with Michelin-starred finesse in a cozy Bakewell setting, blending local heritage with contemporary elegance.
The Manners, Bakewell
0.5 km
Traditional Robinsons pub in Bakewell serving excellent local ales and renowned pub food, with dog-friendly rooms and a spacious beer garden.
The Woodyard
0.6 km
Historic marble works turned vibrant restaurant with fresh homemade food and a scenic riverside beer garden in the heart of Bakewell.
Riverside House Hotel
2.3 km
A 5-star riverside retreat blending historic charm with Michelin-starred dining in the heart of the Peak District.
White Lion
3.6 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering hearty British fare, warm welcomes, and a cozy village atmosphere in Great Longstone.
The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley
3.6 km
A historic Peak District inn blending rustic charm, elegant rooms, and fresh local cuisine near Chatsworth Estate.
The Crispin
3.7 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Great Longstone offering hearty British fare and local ales in the heart of the Peak District.
The Peacock at Rowsley
4.9 km
Historic riverside inn offering refined rooms, acclaimed dining, and exclusive fishing on Derbyshire’s scenic Haddon Estate.
The Prince of Wales Baslow
5.4 km
A sophisticated country pub in Baslow offering seasonal British cuisine, fine wines, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
Fischer's Baslow Hall
5.6 km
Elegant Edwardian manor with refined British dining, charming gardens, and luxurious accommodation in the heart of the Peak District.
The Eating House
6.7 km
A cozy café nestled in Derbyshire Craft Centre offering fresh, inclusive menus and a warm community atmosphere in Hope Valley.
The Bulls Head
6.7 km
A beloved village pub in Monyash serving hearty British classics with generous portions in a warm, rustic setting.
The Bull I' Th' Thorn Pub & Pizzeria | Peak District
8.9 km
Historic Peak District pub and pizzeria in Buxton, cherished for its heritage, lively atmosphere, and scenic countryside setting.
The Orangery Restaurant
9.2 km
Refined British dining in a historic setting within Audley St Elphin’s Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil gardens near the Peak District.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Derbyshire Emporium
0.3 km
Local artisan gifts and homemade refreshments in the heart of Bakewell's charming town centre.
Edge of the World
0.3 km
Boutique clothing and accessories shop in Bakewell offering quality fashion with a welcoming atmosphere and expert service.
Bon Voyage Bakewell
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Bon Voyage Bakewell, nestled in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
The British Emporium
0.4 km
Discover a refined collection of authentic British-made gifts and homewares in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
Mini Chic- clothing, gifts, and accessories for children and babies
0.4 km
Charming boutique offering stylish children’s clothing, gifts, and accessories in the heart of Bakewell’s historic town centre.
Perfect Gifts Bakewell
0.4 km
Discover unique local gifts and heartfelt treasures in the cozy charm of Perfect Gifts Bakewell, your go-to shop for thoughtful souvenirs.
The Works
5.0 km
Affordable arts, crafts, books, and toys in the vibrant Peak Village outlet near Matlock.
Derbyshire Gift Centre
6.7 km
A charming family-run gift shop and café in Hope Valley offering seasonal treasures and homemade delights in the Peak District.
Delightful Living
8.0 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
Antique and Unique
9.5 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
Bella Figura
11.5 km
Matlock’s bespoke bridal and vintage boutique offering personalized wedding dresses and expert alterations with a vintage charm.
Punnydukes
11.8 km
Whimsical gift shop brimming with unique treasures across multiple enchanting floors.
Ashgate Hospice Matlock Shop
11.9 km
Discover bargains with heart at Ashgate Hospice Matlock Shop, supporting vital palliative care across North Derbyshire.
The Original Factory Shop (Matlock)
11.9 km
Affordable shopping with big-brand discounts in the heart of Matlock, offering fashion, beauty, and homeware under one roof.
The Lost Cauldron
12.4 km
Where an antique cauldron sparked a magical dream, now a beloved destination for enchanted treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wheatsheaf Pub and Pantry
0.4 km
Cozy Bakewell pub blending traditional charm with modern pantry dining, serving generous portions in a warm, dog- and child-friendly setting.
Castle
0.4 km
A classic Greene King pub in Bakewell serving hearty British fare in a warm, historic setting near the Peak District.
The Packhorse Inn
4.0 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
The Flying Childers Inn
4.9 km
A cozy, dog-friendly country pub in Stanton in Peak offering fresh, mostly vegan fare and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
The Eyre Arms
6.8 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
Red Lion Inn
8.4 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
The Bull at Foolow
8.6 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
Anglers Rest
8.7 km
A cozy riverside pub in Millers Dale offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a tranquil garden in the heart of the Peak District.
The Barrel Inn
9.5 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The George Inn
9.5 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Star Inn
9.6 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
The Thorn Tree Inn
11.4 km
A traditional Matlock pub offering hearty homemade food, excellent ales, and stunning views over the Derbyshire Dales and Riber Castle.
The Tipsy Toad
11.6 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Matlock with funky vibes, great drinks, and friendly staff, open late for memorable nights out.
The Newsroom
11.7 km
A cozy micro pub in Matlock offering an excellent selection of local craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere for all beer lovers.
Twenty Ten
11.8 km
A rustic and lively bar in Matlock, offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Loft
11.7 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Matlock offering lively music, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the town center.
Level 2
16.3 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
Waikiki Beach Bar
17.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Dempseys Bar and Club
22.5 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Corporation
22.7 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Temple Sheffield
22.8 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Code Sheffield
22.8 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
Fez Sheffield
23.0 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
Popworld - Sheffield
23.1 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Leadmill
23.1 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
23.1 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
The Viper Rooms
23.1 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
Tank
23.4 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
Al Ahsa Night Club
23.4 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Night Kitchen
23.6 km
Dive into Sheffield's industrial heartbeat at The Night Kitchen, where former cutlery factory walls pulse with electronic beats until dawn in a raw, inclusive nightlife haven.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
