The Pavilion Gardens

Frequently asked questions

What are the opening hours for Pavilion Gardens?

Main Building & Pavilion Kitchen: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Ice Cream Parlour : Open Daily 12pm-4:30pm week days

9am-5pm on the weekends

Is entry to Pavilion Gardens free?

Yes! Entry into the 23-acre historic gardens, the main Pavilion building, conservatory, and retail area is completely free. Charges only apply for specific paid attractions (such as the miniature train, boating lake, soft play area) or ticketed events.

Where are you located and how do I get there?

Address: Pavilion Gardens, St. John's Road, Buxton, Derbyshire, SK17 6BE.

By Train: Buxton Railway Station is approximately a 10-minute walk through the town center.

By Bus: Local and regional bus routes stop nearby on St. John’s Road and Market Place.

Is there parking on-site?

Yes, a Pay & Display car park managed by High Peak Borough Council is located on the corner of St. John’s Road and Burlington Road (SatNav: SK17 9AR)

Are dogs allowed at Pavilion Gardens?

In the Gardens & Park: Well-behaved dogs on leads are very welcome throughout the 23 acres of outdoor parkland, paths, and lakeside walks.

Inside the Building:Well-behaved dogs on leads are very welcome

What food and drink options are available on-site?

Pavilion Kitchen & Café: Serving hot/cold meals, light bites, sandwiches, and hot drinks using locally sourced produce.

Restaurant & Bar: Offering full breakfast options on weekends and a lunch menu seven days a week.

Ice Cream Parlour & Kiosks: Serving real dairy ice cream, snacks, and refreshments on sunny days and during peak periods.

Can I hire Pavilion Gardens for a wedding or private event?

Yes! Pavilion Gardens is a popular Grade II-listed venue licensed for civil wedding ceremonies and private receptions.

Ceremony Spaces: Options include the outdoor Don Redfern Memorial Bandstand, the indoor Botanical Gardens / Conservatory, and the historic Octagon Hall.

Event Spaces: The Octagon Hall can accommodate over 300 guests for banquets, balls, corporate events, and large celebrations.

What activities are available for children and families?

Miniature Train: Rides run along the river bank during weekends and school holidays (weather permitting).

Boating Lake: Pedal boats and rowing boats are available for hire seasonally.

Indoor Soft Play Area: Located inside the building near the main café area for toddlers and young children.

Outdoor Play Areas: The park features outdoor play equipment suitable for various age groups.

Are accessible toilets and Changing Places facilities available?

Accessible Toilets: Located on the ground floor near the Pavilion Café and Ice Cream Parlour,

Changing Places Toilet: A dedicated Changing Places facility equipped with a hoist and changing bench is located opposite the Ice Cream Parlour. Access is available via a RADAR Key (available from the Retail Arcade desk or Ice Cream Parlour if you do not carry your own).