ThePumpRoom
The Pump Room
A brief History
The Grade II listed Pump Room was constructed in 1894, replacing John Carr’s structure it was designed by Henry Currey (1820-1900) as the answer to increasing congestion at the well. The building cost £5,000 and had been commissioned by the 7th Duke of Devonshire William Cavendish (1808-1891). However, the Duke died before its completion so it was opened by his son 8th Duke Spencer Cavendish (1833- 1908) who in a speech to the people of Buxton noted the previous buildings inadequate size and that the town’s inhabitants and visitors “were not satisfied with being merely cured; they must be cured in their own way and at the least possible inconvenience to themselves”.
Initially the Pump Room was a success, offering both water and a fashionable place to relax and commune. However, from the 1950s efforts to reduce running costs took precedence and by the 1970s the building was repurposed as Buxton’s information centre.
What is it used for now?
Buxton’s Visitor Centre at the Pump Room, provides information on great places to visit and experiences to enjoy in our town, the beautiful Peak District National Park and High Peak.
While in the Pump Room you can find out more about this lovely historic building, indulge in some retail therapy in the gift shop, book tickets for the Buxton Crescent Visitor Experience and drink the famous thermal mineral water straight from its source.
Did you know?
The water that emerges from The Lion’s Head Well inside The Pump Room is geothermically heated to 27.5c and has been underground for 5000 years!
