Bakewell Recreation Ground

Bakewell Recreation Ground is a cherished public park located in the heart of Bakewell, England, and managed by Derbyshire Dales District Council. Spanning 5.25 hectares of beautifully maintained land along the meandering River Wye, the park provides a peaceful escape for families, sports enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor exploring the Peak District, the recreation ground offers an inviting mix of open green space, modern facilities, and natural beauty just a few minutes' walk from the bustling town center.

What makes this park truly special is its ability to cater to all ages and interests. Young children can spend hours in the dedicated play area or cooling off in the seasonal splash pad, while older kids and adults can enjoy a game of tennis on the recently refurbished courts. The park is also home to the town's cricket club, croquet club, and football pitches, making it a hub for community sport. The riverside setting, complete with a new wildflower meadow, invites quiet picnics, gentle strolls, and moments of relaxation away from everyday life. The park's thoughtful design blends active recreation with serene natural spots, ensuring every visit feels fresh and enjoyable.

Facilities

Bakewell Recreation Ground is equipped with a wide array of facilities designed to provide fun, fitness, and relaxation. The park’s offerings are well-maintained and clearly signposted, making it easy for visitors to find exactly what they need for a perfect day out.

Children's Play Area and Splash Pad

The dedicated children's play area is a safe, engaging space where little ones can climb, swing, and explore. Right next to it, the splash pad operates daily from 10am to 5pm, with a break between 12:30pm and 1:30pm, until its seasonal closure on Monday, 29th September. The splash pad is a huge hit on warm days, offering an accessible and controlled way for kids to cool off while parents relax on nearby benches.

Sports Facilities

For those who love competitive and recreational sports, the park delivers excellent options. The multi-use games area includes two tennis courts and a basketball hoop, with one court available free to book through Clubspark from Monday to Friday between 4pm and 6pm, and on weekends between 2pm and 4pm during daylight hours. Outside these times, courts can be hired for just £6 per hour. To make a booking, visitors need to register for a free LTA Advantage membership. These courts were fully refurbished in October 2025, funded entirely by the Lawn Tennis Association, ensuring a top-quality playing surface. The park also maintains two croquet lawns, available from March to October, a cricket square for matches from mid-May to mid-August, and two football pitches that operate from mid-August to mid-May. During the cricket season, the pitch and pavilion become the focal point for local fixtures and spectators.

Riverside and Natural Features

In the south-east corner, the river meanders around the edge of the park, creating a tranquil spot where visitors can sit and enjoy the sound of flowing water. A newly created wildflower meadow in this area adds a splash of color and attracts pollinators, making it a perfect place to relax with a book or a picnic. The riverside walkway is a favorite for dog walkers, though dogs must be kept under control to respect the wildlife and other park users.

Amenities and Practicalities

On-site toilet facilities are open from April to October, with a small 20 pence charge per use, helping to maintain these essential amenities. The park also features a seasonal ice cream van, a shelter for rainy days, and numerous benches positioned throughout the grounds. The pavilion supports sports clubs and events, and the whole site is designed to be accessible, with flat paths suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Location and Directions

Bakewell Recreation Ground is just a five-minute walk from the town center, making it incredibly convenient for visitors arriving on foot. The official address is Haddon Road, Bakewell, DE45 1AW, England. If you are driving, several public car parks in Bakewell are within easy walking distance. The nearest is Granby Road car park, which provides direct access. Public transport users will find bus stops within a short stroll, and the park is a pleasant walk from the main areas of this picturesque market town.

Car Parking

While there is no dedicated car park directly at the recreation ground, visitors benefit from the abundance of town-center parking just moments away. Granby Road car park is the closest option, and other centrally located car parks ensure you can always find a space. The short walk from any of these lots is part of the charm, taking you through Bakewell’s attractive streets before you arrive at the green expanse of the park.

Why Visitors Love This Park

The consistently high ratings from over a thousand reviews reflect the deep affection locals and tourists have for Bakewell Recreation Ground. Visitors frequently praise the park’s immaculate upkeep, the beauty of its riverside location, and the sheer variety of things to do. Families appreciate the enclosed playground and splash pad, which provide safe, free entertainment for children. Sports lovers value the affordable, high-quality courts and pitches. Dog owners highlight the riverside walks and the welcoming atmosphere. The park’s manageable size means you can experience everything it has to offer without feeling overwhelmed, yet it still holds enough depth to fill an entire afternoon or morning.

Rules, Safety, and Community Involvement

To keep the park safe and enjoyable for everyone, a few important rules are in place. Metal detecting and drone flying are strictly prohibited. The use of barbecues is not permitted, as they can damage the grass, pose a fire risk, and remain a hazard to wildlife and other users long after use. Geocaching is allowed, provided participants follow the guidelines on the Geocaching website and treat the park with respect. The Derbyshire Dales District Council encourages community involvement and is always keen to hear from local people who want to form a friends group or volunteer. Anyone interested can reach out via email at parks@derbyshiredales.gov.uk.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is there an admission fee? No, access to Bakewell Recreation Ground is completely free of charge. Some facilities, like tennis court hire outside free hours, have a small fee.
• Can I book a sports pitch for a match? Yes, football pitches and cricket squares can be booked through the council. Tennis courts are booked via the Clubspark website.
• Are dogs allowed in the park? Dogs are welcome and can enjoy the riverside walks. Owners should keep them under control, especially around the children’s play area and sports facilities.
• When is the splash pad open? The splash pad operates daily from 10am to 5pm with a break from 12:30pm to 1:30pm, closing for the season around the end of September.