Buxton Baths & Cavendish Arcade

Baths and Shop in Buxton

Cavendish Arcade, Buxton — CC BY-SA 3.0 / Elisa.rolle

Nestled in the heart of Buxton, The Cavendish Arcade is a charming boutique shopping hall that thrives with a community of small independent businesses. Here, you can find a delightful array of clothing, jewellery, local food and drinks, and other delightful treasures. What sets this place apart, however, is the historic building that houses it—the former Victorian thermal baths of the spa town.

As you wander through the arcade, savour a cup of coffee and take in the vibrant atmosphere. Admire the walls and hallways adorned with brightly-coloured Minton tiles, and gaze up at the magnificent stained glass vaulted ceiling. This awe-inspiring architectural feature, the largest of its kind in Britain, was added when the building was converted in 1987. You’ll also discover several original elements from the old baths, including the plunge pool and a chair that was once used to lower people into the healing waters. The Buxton Baths remained open until the 1960s, and many locals fondly recall visiting them during their childhood.

The Cavendish Arcade is part of Buxton’s historic Crescent complex, where affluent Georgian and Victorian visitors once stayed while indulging in the therapeutic waters. Just opposite the arcade, you’ll find the Pump House, a fascinating attraction where you can delve into the ancient spa town’s history of hydrotherapy. While you’re there, don’t forget to sample the mineral-rich water from St. Anne’s Well, offering a taste of Buxton’s renowned natural springs.

The Buxton Baths & Cavendish Arcade appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Buxton!

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