Buxton is a well know spa town in the county of Derbyshire. The name probably derives from 'Buck Stan' because it was the Kings deer that came to drink at the spring.

The town is set within wonderful scenery and has some magnificent architecture. In fact the well known Opera House has the largest unsupported dome in England. There is much to do in the area including climbing and mountain biking, potholing and walking, horse riding and bird watching.

The first people to live in the area were Stone Age hunters. From about 3500 to 1800 BC Stone Age farmers lived in the area and made their barrows and henge monuments. There followed the Bronze Age, and Iron Age, all in evidence. Today Iron Age settlements can be seen at the hill forts of Castle Naze and Castleton's MamTor.

It was because of the spa that the town became important for the Romans. They named the town Aquae Arnemetiae which means: The Waters of the Goddess of the Spring; and they built at least three bath houses.

Mary, a Tudor Queen of Scotland, made numerous visits to the spa town during 1573 and 1584. From this time on the spring water became known for its medicinal properties. During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries the town became very well known. And, it was during this time period that the major development of the town took place.

After about 1850 and the advent of the railway visitors started to come to Buxton in vast numbers. During this Victorian period much of the towns hotels and hydros were built, hence the wonderful Victorian architectural heritage. In 1903 Buxton's famous Opera House was opened.

The First World War saw an end to the popularity of the town and its numerous spas. But today the area has become a popular destination from which to explore the delights of the Peak District. And now with the opening of a University and a redevelopment of some of the spas the town is experiencing a revival.