Market Place

A brief history

There is much conjecture on whether below your feet are the remains of a Roman town but there is no dispute that the Romans came to Buxton to enjoy the warm spa waters. Its position at the junction of major Roman roads and the proximity of Roman forts at Glossop and Brough suggest it was a popular retreat for the weary soldiers unused to the harsh climate.  The Romans only named 2 spa towns Aquae Sulis (Bath) and Aquae Arnemetiae (Buxton). Stand at the Methodist Church and imagine how several streets radiated from this point as in typical Roman towns.

In 1760 the 3rd Duke of Devonshire built the Eagle and Child public house (now The Eagle) to accommodate the growing number of visitors to the town. Many of the pubs are older and were coaching inns since the C17 but Buxton was not granted its market charter until 1813 when the C15 market cross was moved to its present position.

Where the Town Hall now stands was an indoor market place which burnt down in 1885. The town’s new fire engine was unable to control the fire started by a paraffin lamp in one of the shops in the Market Hall. 

The market had its heyday in the C20 when stalls jostled for space on the market place and stretched out onto the cattle market and surrounding streets.

What it is used for now?

Traditional markets are held on Tuesdays and Saturdays when good weather allows. There are 6 pubs and numerous wine bars and restaurants.

Did you know?

Buxton is home to the highest market in England at 1032ft above sea level.