It's been called "a magnet for painters" and "the pinnacle of Peak District beauty". And now it has been named the best place in the UK for a 48-hour getaway.
Holiday Cottages curated a list of the best UK destinations to explore in just 48 hours and have placed the Peak District town of Bakewell, famous for the iconic tart of the same name, at the top. The list also includes five other towns across the UK that are ideal for Brits looking for a cosy weekend getaway.
Bakewell, just under an hour from Derby, is nestled in the heart of the Peak District. The town "offers a charming mix of history, natural beauty and local delights", according to the holiday experts, including a riverside walk across the River Wye, and a visit to the historic Bakewell Bridge.
The stunning natural beauty and historic buildings has made the town one for the bucket list, and attracts visitors for its scenery alone. The travel experts said: "Stroll through the town's quaint streets lined with independent shops and try the famous Bakewell pudding at The Original Bakewell Pudding Shop. For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby trails like Monsal Trail provide the perfect opportunity for hiking or cycling amidst stunning landscapes."
Chatsworth House, a grand estate just a short drive away, is another of Bakewell's gems, as is Haddon Hall, both offering a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.
Where to eat, drink and stay in Bakewell
The Rutland Arms Hotel has a A popular B&B in the town is River Cottage. Situated on the banks of the River Wye, it is perfectly located for either business or pleasure in the area. Or you could try Bagshaw Hall or Sleep Lodge, which boasts boutique-style bedrooms and luxury suites and apartments. Pubs and restaurants worth a visit include The Castle and The Moon Inn.
Holiday Cottages says it has seen a 22% increase of Brits opting for shorter, more frequent breaks. Shannon Keary, digital PR manager there, said: "We hope these recommendations inspire more people to embrace the joy of staycations and discover the hidden gems right on their doorstep."
The Peak District National Park is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the UK, with England, with bucolic villages dotted amongst the green, rolling hills and the River Wye meandering peacefully through towns like Bakewell.
Bakewell also hosts the largest market in the Derbyshire Dales every Monday, with over 100 regular stalls. Markets and fairs have reportedly been held here since the 1300s. Today's version has a variety of good including clothes, bed linen, shoes, fruit and veg and freshly baked bread. There's also the UK's second largest farmers' market on the last Saturday of the month.
You can find places to stay in the Peak District at holidaycottages.co.uk .
Other places on the list of the best places in the UK to spend 48 hours are Ambleside in Cumbria, Dartmouth in Devon, Aldeburgh in Suffork, St Davids in Wales and Knaresborough in Yorkshire.
