Tideswell is a large communal village in the Peak District towards Buxton, Derbyshire. It has the charm for leisurely strolls and size for a number of award-winning pubs, cafes and restaurants. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting.
Things to do in Tideswell
The charm of Tideswell comes from a strong local community that adds a sense of liveliness and personal touch to the village. Activities and businesses are geared towards residents e.g. local clubs and small food shops so there isn’t as much to do as a tourist compared to more commercial villages such as Castleton. And yet, it has become popular among visitors who love to stay in quirky holiday cottages for the weekend and hang out in the village.
Tideswell Dale walk
Tideswell is surrounded by beautiful country walks. Tideswell Dale can take you down to Miller’s Dale and you have the option to join the famous Monsal Trail, which also links to Chee Dale stepping stones or walk over to Litton village in 30 minutes where you can get the best views of Cressbrook Dale. For a shorter and quiet country lane walk in Tideswell, head down Slancote Lane where you’ll find straightforward public footpaths that loop back round into the village.
Peak Volumes book shop
Part of the appeal of Peak District villages is the ability to detox from the stress of a digital world. Head over to Tideswell bookstore (Thursday to Sunday), grab a second hand novel or thought-provoking non-fiction book and relax by your wood burning stove for a cosy evening. The team located in Guildhall, Bank Square will be happy to discuss and make recommendations.
Yarn Dyeing at Peak District Yarns
Yarn makes super comfy socks, gloves and scarves to keep you warm in the winter. Knitting your own or dyeing yarn into colourful patterns you’ll struggle to find in retail shops gives this experience a novel appeal. Spend up to 3 days in a personalised workshop crafting something that will become sentimental to you.
Pubs in Tideswell
The George Inn
The George Inn is arguably the best decorated village pub and hotel experience. Friendly staff, a charming atmosphere, and hearty meals, including Sunday roasts and local ales make it a popular option. Plus, it’s in a great location near the church and food places, with plenty of outdoor seating in the front and rear. However, service can be inconsistent when it comes to food and some meals are pricey.
Horse & Jockey
The Horse & Jockey offers a cosy traditional pub experience. The pub is dog-friendly and features a log fire and stools at the bar. Highlights include their burgers and classic dishes like steak pie and Sunday roasts. However, there have been issues for some around inconsistent service, long food waits, as well as somewhat dated rooms and cleanliness standards for overnight visitors.
The Star Inn
The Star Inn is more of a locals pub but many visitors enjoy it for the authenticity and lively atmosphere. Space is scarce so it’s often quite busy and loud – something to keep in mind if you prefer relaxing early nights. Overall, the quality of food, drinks and service is great value for money. A good choice for friends (or partners) who are chatty but not scrupulous and demanding of staff.
The Anchor Inn
The Anchor Inn is much further out in Tideswell but worth the walk (or drive) if you want the best all-rounder. Everything from the decor to food and service quality is pretty high. Belonging to a small group of successful Peak District pubs and hotels, they’re experts in providing a good experience. Ideal for families, dogs and walkers. Also a must for rum and steak enthusiasts. They boast awards, a beer garden and fresh ingredients.
Tideswell cafes
Tideswell Lounge
Tideswell Lounge is a hotspot for dine-in lunch with some of the most space and an outside patio. The family-owned cafe is a go-to choice for full english breakfast, cakes, scones, scrambled eggs, hot chocolate and coffee. Plus, it’s open until late afternoon (4pm). It is on the expensive side but they offer more affordable options like a mini english breakfast and paninis.
The Cherry Tree
The Cherry Tree is a small but friendly cafe. It’s a cheaper alternative for walkers or cyclists to grab tasty food on the go. They stand out for their top-tier homemade cakes, especially the lemon drizzle, as well as a good range of quality sandwiches, baps, salads, soup and sausage rolls. However, they usually close on the weekend and after 1.30pm when open.
Tindalls of Tideswell
Tindalls of Tideswell is a long-standing staple in the village. The bakery produces homemade local food. From fresh milk, eggs, bread, preserves and cheeses for making your own lunch to ready-to-eat pork pies and pastries. Don’t forget to try their infamous original recipe Thar cakes and Wakes cakes that have won a Great Taste award. Closes early at 1pm.
Tideswell restaurants & Takeaways
The Merchant's Yard
The Merchant’s Yard European restaurant serves a more high end experience and doubles up as a hotel with luxury rooms. Some meal portions aren’t very big but is beautifully presented and boasts an AA 2-Rosette award for culinary excellence. You can also pre-book afternoon tea if you want fancy platters for sharing and sandwiches such as ham & french mustard, smoked salmon & tartare sauce, roast beef & horseradish.
Sal's Italian
Sal’s Italian family-run restaurant offers many flavoursome dishes with generous portions. Popular meals include pasta, seafood risotto, and homemade desserts. The service is friendly and the relaxed atmosphere is great for couples looking for a quiet, more intimate evening although they accommodate large groups as well. They don’t serve alcohol but you are free to bring your own from the shop.
Elliott's Fish & Chips
Elliott’s fish and chip shop is a strong contender for the best chippy in the Peak District. Enjoy all the classics like battered cod, sausage, pies and a delicious deep fried mars bar. The chips get a thumbs up and come in reasonable portions. The owner is friendly and entertaining but its popularity and limited staff cause longer waiting times. Nonetheless, it’s a quick and easy takeaway in the evening.
Explore the village
Commercial Road (shops & seats) Bank View Fountain Square Market Square St John's Road to High Street Tideswell Carnival, Buxton Road
St John The Baptist Church
St John The Baptist church has a bloody past stretching back to land disputes from the 11th century after the Battle of Hastings. It’s one of the most famous churches in Derbyshire often named the ‘Cathedral of the Peak’. The Grade 1 listed building shares the same protection status as the likes of Buckingham palace and is undergoing major renovations inside. But you can still visit the chancel and altar room where you’ll find the tomb of Sir Sampson Meverill, a giant ‘jesse window’ depicting the ancestry of Jesus, and incredible stonework. Sunday service is a mix of visitors and locals.
Markeygate House
Markeygate house is the oldest dwelling in Tideswell built in 1432. The door is grade 2 listed by English Heritage giving it historical importance and accessible from Commercial street near Tideswell church.
Events
Tideswell Food festival
The food festival takes place each May (2nd in 2026) and is a big deal for locals and foodies. The village prides itself as a hub for cuisines and it has expanded over the years attracting plenty of international food stalls, but also classics that let you experience the taste of fresh bread again. It now includes a makers’ market for interesting trinkets, jewellery, personally made home items and more. While vendors take their cut, surplus donations are collected for local causes and projects.
Tideswell Carnival
Known locally as Tideswell Wakes, events usually take place during a week in June, including ancient village traditions such as well dressings. Local kids often spend lots of time creating these well decorated art pieces. But the main event to look out for is Big Saturday. This features the carnival parade through the village with floaties, music and good vibes.
Getting to Tideswell
Tideswell is situated in the Peak District, which is in rural central England. You can spot it just north between Buxton and Bakewell. It is tucked away so car is recommended to get here. Typically, public transportation requires both train and bus from Sheffield or Manchester Piccadilly.
Getting there by car: Use your GPS or Google Maps to find the village. There are parking spots on the roadside throughout the village so park somewhere close to where you’re staying for the night. Your first point of call is Whitecross Road or Buxton Road coming into Tideswell.
Getting there by train and bus: Take Northern Rail from Sheffield station in 25 minutes or Manchester Piccadilly station in 50 minutes and get off at Hope station. Walk through the carpark and continue down to the main road. At the junction there is a bus stop to your right. Take the 173 Hulleys of Baslow bus towards Bakewell, which takes you through Bradwell. Get off at Fountain Square in Tideswell. Or, get the 173 towards Tideswell from Rutland Square in Bakewell. Alternatively, get the Stagecoach 65 bus from Buxton Marketplace in 25 minutes or Sheffield interchange (near the train station) directly there in as little as an hour.
Top attractions near Tideswell
Monsal Head
Stop off at Monsal Head for an afternoon treat or drinks. Touted as one of the most breathtaking views in the Peak District, overlooking monsal dale headstone viaduct for the popular monsal trail, you can drive there in 10 minutes or walk there along the dale.
Buxton
Buxton is a town surrounded by the beautiful countryside with award-winning spas, markets, an opera house, immaculate pavilion gardens, and stunning heritage buildings. Go shopping, dining, or try Buxton water fresh from the springs.
Chee Dale Stepping Stones
If you enjoy a bit of mud and scrambling on your adventures, chee dale is a fantastic walk. Hop onto the epic monsal trail on your way there after passing Miller’s Dale or drive to Miller’s Dale car park to start.
Cressbrook Dale
An underrated gem you can travel to for a quieter trail. Walk through Litton village or drive there and get the best views from a gate tucked in the lay-by half way up Mires Lane just outside the village.