Buxton Festival

Mon 12 Jul

Independent arrival in Buxton and check in at the centrally-located 4-star deluxe Buxton Crescent Hotel and Thermal Spa, just a three-minute walk from the Opera House (or similar). The Crescent was at the heart of the 5th Duke of Devonshire’s plans to establish a fashionable Georgian spa town in Buxton in the 18th century, and this new hotel will occupy the majority of this grade 1 listed building, as well as the magnificent Assembly Rooms. Welcome drinks and canapés will be served in the hotel before walking the short distance to the Opera House for that evening’s performance. After the opera, there will be a drinks reception with members of the cast.

Tue 13 Jul

The day starts with a walking tour of Buxton. Your first stop is at the beautiful Cavendish Arcade to sample hand-made chocolates from Charlotte’s Chocolatier and visit the Jantar Pottery shop to see some exquisitely crafted pieces of Blue John and learn about this precious stone’s unique Derbyshire history. You will then head to the Devonshire Dome (the largest unsupported dome in Europe) for a glass of wine and a taste of the award-winning cheese from nearby Hartington. Lunch and the afternoon are at leisure before that night’s performance.

Wed 14 Jul

A morning excursion through the stunning Peak District takes you to Haddon Hall, one of the oldest houses in the country. With its Long Gallery, reputed to be one of the most beautiful rooms in England, terraced Elizabethan Walled Gardens and rare 15th century frescoes, Haddon provides a unique view of early English life, and is the setting for numerous films and TV series. Return to the hotel for lunch with the rest of the afternoon at leisure before the final opera of this tour.

Thu 15 Jul

Independent departure.