Buxton Crescent spa hotel review

In a nutshell: A historic spa hotel to rival them all. It took 17 years and the spending power (£70m) of Ensana, Europe’s largest spa operator, to revive this Grade I-listed grand dame. It harnesses the Derbyshire town’s underground thermal springs, and guests can take the mineral-rich waters as the Victorians, Georgians and Romans did before them.

The neighbourhood

There are few vistas more quintessentially English than those enjoyed on the road up to Buxton, through the Peak District. The area immediately around the hotel speaks of a glorious past, including Pavilion Gardens, with its Kew-esque botanical conservator, and chic Cavendish Arcade filled with boutiques, cafes and bars.

The look

Georgian neoclassical brawn at its finest, this architectural masterpiece is the stuff of Austenian dreams. Its interiors are eye-catching, if sometimes a little bling, with things hitting a high note in the bar: distressed mirrors, botanical wallpaper and brass fixtures channel the best of gin-palace Victoriana.

The vibe

Historical continuity is a beautiful thing: bathing in the same waters, delivered in the same monumental environs as the Victorians and Georgians once enjoyed adds a dimension to the experience that feels unbeatable. Staff – while incredibly accommodating – felt a little green and somewhat out of step with the casual-not-casual service of England’s most popular hotels.

Bed and bath

Four-poster beds, roll-top baths and on-brand toiletries are all well thought out. The sharp lines of the other fixtures feel a little at odds with the stately chassis of the rooms, but the palate is reassuringly muted, making it a space well tuned to bathrobe lounging while you wait for your next treatment.

Food and drink

The restaurant’s menu is at once exciting and contextually appropriate. You’ll find imaginative takes on classic British dishes that use local and seasonal ingredients (don’t miss the oxtail roulade), while it looks great on the plate too. If you fancy eating out one evening, options span hearty Greek and Italian to old-world fine dining within a few minutes’ walk.

Pools, spas and public areas