Ernie's Adventures

What’s Alison Park Hotel like?

The Alison Park Hotel is a family-run establishment with a homely feel. Think decorative plates on the walls, an old-fashioned bar and wooden beams on the walls and ceilings. OK, some areas of the hotel are a little dated but in my opinion, that’s part of its charm. The two-star hotel, in a rambling Edwardian building, is in a quiet part of the spa town but close to all the shops, bars and restaurants.

How dog-friendly is Alison Park Hotel?

Very, and there’s no extra charge for dogs, either. When you book, try to nab the G2 room – it has a separate door leading straight out into the garden. Pets are not allowed in the restaurant but if you’d like to dine with your dog, staff will happily set tables in the lounge or bar.

If they’re lucky, your pet even be treated to a sausage or two at breakfast. Alternatively, well-behaved dogs are welcome to stay in the room and have a lie-in. There are plenty of poo bins nearby too, which is rather handy.

Tell me more about Alison Park Hotel

The hotel’s cosy rooms are decorated in a homely style, so it almost feels like you’re staying in a family home. Yes, some of the decor is a little dated but everything is spotlessly clean and we slept like babies during our stay.

Our spacious double room – G2 – led straight out into the garden so we could come and go as we pleased. Ernie was also happy to see the exterior door was fully glazed so he could keep an eye on the patio area, just like he does at home.

There were complimentary toiletries and biscuits as well and tea and coffee making facilities. Parking is also free but if you arrive on a Friday, as we did, you may have to leave your car on the main road until the members of the local bridge club have cleared out.

What’s the food like at Alison Park Hotel?

We only sampled breakfast but that was really good. We enjoyed a hearty Full English accompanied by a selection of cereal, fruit, juice and coffee. The hotel also serves evening meals where British classics feature heavily. Two courses will set you back £16 while a three-course meal costs £18.50.

If you fancy eating out, the Buxton Brewery Tap House & Cellar comes highly recommended. It serves strong, experimental beers alongside enormous burgers, such as the one pictured above. For excellent stone-baked pizzas, check out RedWillow. Both establishments are incredibly dog-friendly.

Are there resident dogs at Alison Park Hotel?

No, but there are sure to be other canine guests. We counted three on our visit.

Where are the best dog walks near Alison Park Hotel?

Your first stop should be Buxton’s beautiful Pavilion Gardens, just across the street. This landscaped park is a great place to stretch your legs and has lots to explore, including a miniature railway, lake, cafe and Edwardian bandstand. There’s also a lovely promenade-style walkway above the park that leads directly into town.

The hotel is also around half a mile from Poole’s Cavern & Buxton Country Park. The cave system itself is pretty impressive but dogs are not allowed inside so woodland walks around the 100-acre park will have to suffice. Head to Solomon’s Temple, at the top of Grin Hill, where you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views across the High Peak.

Outside of Buxton, you won’t have to travel far for a good walk – you are in the heart of the Peak District, after all! Check out the Peak District National Park website for more inspiration. Alternatively, check out our Ruff Guide to the Peak District for more dog-friendly suggestions for things to see and do.

What Ernie loved about Alison Park Hotel

The sausage at breakfast, the garden view from the room, the proximity to the Pavilion Gardens

What I loved about Alison Park Hotel

The friendly staff, the peaceful location, the easy walk into town

How to book Alison Park Hotel

Double rooms start from around £60 per night, including breakfast. Look out for special offers, too – currently, a two-night break including dinner, bed and breakfast is available for £136. For more information, call 01298 22473 or visit the Alison Park Hotel website.