Bakewell Old House Museum
About This Museum
Tucked away on a quiet lane in the heart of Bakewell, you'll find a piece of living history that feels almost hidden in plain sight. The Bakewell Old House Museum isn't just a building with artifacts; it's the artifact itself, a creaky, wonderfully preserved Tudor home that has stood since King Henry VIII was on the throne. I spent an hour completely captivated, wandering from the cavernous stone-flagged kitchen up the narrow staircase to rooms filled with curiosities from centuries of local life. It’s an intimate and surprisingly personal glimpse into the past that feels more like exploring your eccentric great-grandmother's attic than a formal museum.
Collection Highlights
Don't miss the 'witch marks' carved into the fireplace to ward off evil spirits, and peek at the fascinating collection of antique toys and quirky Victorian gadgets. The temporary exhibits are always changing, but when I visited, a display on Peak District mining was brilliantly done.
Visitor Information
It's run by lovely volunteers, so do check their website for opening times as they can be seasonal. It's a small venue, perfect for a 60-90 minute visit that perfectly breaks up a day of exploring the Peaks.
Architecture & Building
A classic, black-and-white timber-framed Tudor house with charmingly crooked walls and low doorways that will make taller visitors duck.
Contact & Location
Address: Cunningham Place, Bakewell CP, Derbyshire Dales, Derbyshire, East Midlands, England, DE45 1DD, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 1629 813642
Website: Visit Website
