Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the  Peak District and perched high on the hills, this sizeable village boasts a plethora of small businesses serving up delectable fare to locals.

Tideswell, situated on a limestone plateau just six miles east of the renowned spa town Buxton, may not be as frequented by tourists but it certainly has much to offer. Serving as a hub for surrounding villages, Tideswell is an ideal spot for a cuppa, a pub crawl or sampling delicious food, all thanks to its vibrant local businesses.

In honour of their culinary delights, the village organises an annual food festival. The next one is slated for 2 May 2026, providing a platform to celebrate local flavours. The community unites to display their hard work and offer a diverse range of artisan foods, along with other handmade products.

Among the village’s most acclaimed dining spots are The Merchant’s Yard Restaurant, The Star Inn, Tideswell Lounge, The Anchor Inn and the modest chip shop, Elliott’s Fish and Chips.

With seven pubs dishing out hearty meals within a compact area, Tideswell’s food and drink offerings are indeed impressive. Beyond its gastronomic appeal, the village is home to an extraordinary church known for its unique architecture, often dubbed the ‘cathedral of the peak’.

The Church of St John the Baptist, constructed in the 14th century, houses a collection of original monuments, brasses and woodcarvings. Since 1967, the church has held Grade I listed status and, with support from the Friends of St John Tideswell, has undergone numerous restoration, conservation and maintenance initiatives.

The group remains dedicated to preserving this magnificent structure, which they regard as “one of the most important of the county’s mediaeval parish churches”.

One recent guest documented their visit on TripAdvisor, noting: “A beautiful church; it’s easy to see why it’s known as the Cathedral of the Peak. I’m told I’d been before, but I couldn’t remember anything about it, so I enjoyed a visit in peace and tranquillity.

“Spectacular stained glass windows and beautiful and intricate carvings in the choir, combined with an interesting history, make it worth a visit. Also don’t miss the altar tomb, which is very unusual, as is the stone effigy beneath.”

Historically, Tideswell served as an essential commercial centre, hosting markets whilst functioning as a focal point for diverse trades including quarrying, lead extraction and cotton and velvet production. Much of this heritage endures within the town to this day, with numerous visitors choosing to explore the Tideswell Dale walk, which passes the historic mill site.

Following the river’s course through the village, this six-mile ramble guides walkers across the region on level ground for an excursion lasting between two and three hours. Many consider this an excellent opportunity to appreciate the area’s natural splendour whilst discovering the town’s distinctive character en route.