Reputed to be England’s oldest hotel, the characterful building dates back to 1573, and has accommodated many illustrious Elizabethans, as well as the hapless Mary Queen of Scots. Today’s guests appreciate its blend of tradition with modernity and its great location opposite the beautiful Pavilion Gardens and Buxton Opera House.

A retreat from the city, the rattan swings, hammocks and sun loungers in the large walled garden of this Victorian town house make it an inviting place to hang loose. Squashy sofas encourage the laid-back atmosphere in the sitting room. Individually decorated, modern bedrooms are spread over three floors. Breakfast is in the bright conservatory. The city centre and airport are a short train-ride or drive away.

Once industrial, now simply ‘in’, the city’s lively Northern Quarter is a fitting spot for this Victorian textile warehouse-turned-hip hotel. Fronted by a cool cocktail bar, the boutique-y venue has original metal staircases, exposed brick, and added indoor greenery. Clean-cut, contemporary bedrooms have up-to-date tech. Complimentary Prosecco and nibbles in the bar in the evening. In the morning, a breakfast bag of granola, juice, fruit and a pastry is delivered to the room.

Well located in the town, a comfortable hotel in a handsome building dating back to 1809. It makes a good base for hikers and visitors to Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall nearby. Bedrooms (some recently refurbished in the main house; some with a 4-poster bed) are also in a courtyard building across the road. Dining is in the elegant Square Restaurant or in the lively Juniper Pizza and Gin bar.

A 200-year-old coaching inn in the centre, with beamed ceilings, exposed stonework and cosy nooks and crannies where, to the accompaniment of an original Wurlitzer juke box. ale aficionados can savour local brews. Homemade classic pub grub and Sunday roasts are served in a stone-flagged conservatory, or on warm days, outside in the courtyard. Bedrooms are in the converted stables; one has a four-poster bed and a free-standing bath; another would suit a family.

Hardwick, Hartington, Hassop, Hathersage? Beginning with ‘H’ each of the ten modern bedrooms in this centrally located hotel is named after a Peak District village and tells a story with local artwork and photographs on the walls. Staying guests join locals in the Lounge Bar which is open until 9 pm, for a Continental breakfast (cooked extra), snacks, afternoon tea and bar meals. Or head to the Bakewell Pudding Parlour for the town’s famous tart.