There is something undeniably magical about the transition from a bustling market town to the rolling grandeur of the Peak District. The Hulley’s 170 offers passengers a front-row seat to this transformation, linking the historic crooked spire of Chesterfield with the honey-coloured stone of Bakewell, via the magnificent Chatsworth Estate.
Whether you are a local commuter or a visitor looking to explore Derbyshire’s crown jewels without a car, the 170 is more than just a bus route—it’s a journey through the very heart of the English countryside.
What makes this route special
The 170 is a route of contrasts. You start in the urban energy of Chesterfield, famed for its industrial heritage and architectural quirks, and within minutes, you are navigating the leafy, affluent suburbs of Brampton and Brookside.
But the real showstopper is the entry into the Chatsworth Estate. Unlike many services that drop you at the gates, the 170 often sweeps right into the grounds, offering views of the house that are usually reserved for postcards. It connects three of the area’s most popular destinations—Chesterfield, Chatsworth, and Bakewell—making it arguably one of the most useful leisure routes in Derbyshire.
A journey through the peaks
Departing Chesterfield
Your journey begins in Chesterfield, where the silhouette of the Crooked Spire dominates the skyline. Leaving the town centre, the bus heads west along the lively Chatsworth Road in Brampton. This area, often referred to as the ‘gateway to the Peak’, is lined with independent cafes, breweries, and boutiques, worth a quick hop-off if you need coffee before the ride.
Into the Hills
As the bus climbs out of the suburbs through Brookside and past Ashgate, the landscape opens up. You’ll pass through the charming hamlet of Old Brampton, with its historic church, before hitting the higher ground near Wigley and Wadshelf. Keep your camera ready here; on a clear day, the views stretch for miles across the dales.
The Chatsworth Estate
The bus descends into Baslow, a picturesque village of stone cottages that sits on the edge of the Chatsworth Estate. From here, the route takes you into the parkland itself. You’ll catch glimpses of Edensor, the ‘model village’ built by the Duke of Devonshire, before arriving at the majestic Chatsworth House. The stop here is perfectly placed for visiting the house, the gardens, or the farm shop.
The Final Stretch to Bakewell
After soaking up the grandeur of the estate, the bus continues through the estate village of Pilsley—home to the Chatsworth Farm Shop—before arriving in Bakewell. The bus terminates here, leaving you perfectly positioned to explore the ancient bridge, feed the ducks on the River Wye, or hunt down a traditional Bakewell Pudding.
Practical information
The Hulley’s 170 service generally operates daily, providing a reliable connection for both locals and tourists.
- Frequency: The service typically runs hourly from Monday to Saturday during the daytime. On Sundays and Bank Holidays, a service is still provided, though it may run slightly less frequently, so it is always wise to check the latest timetable before travel.
- Timetable: The journey from Chesterfield to Bakewell takes approximately 50 to 60 minutes, making it a comfortable duration for a day trip.
Tickets and value
Travelling on the 170 is excellent value, especially compared to the cost of parking in the National Park.
- Single Fares: Standard single and return tickets are available from the driver.
- Derbyshire Wayfarer: For those planning a full day of exploring, the Derbyshire Wayfarer ticket is highly recommended. It offers unlimited travel on almost all buses and trains throughout Derbyshire for a whole day. This is perfect if you plan to combine the 170 with other routes or arrive in Chesterfield by train.
- Concessions: English National Concessionary Passes (older person’s bus pass) are valid on this service after 09:30 on weekdays and all day on weekends.
Top tips for the journey
- Sit on the left: When travelling from Chesterfield towards Bakewell, try to sit on the left-hand side of the bus. You’ll get the best initial views of Chatsworth House as the bus approaches through the parkland.
- Market Days: Chesterfield Market (Mon, Fri, Sat) and Bakewell Market (Mon) are superb. If you travel on a Monday, you can experience the hustle and bustle of two historic markets in one day!
- Walking Shoes: If you enjoy a walk, consider getting off at Baslow and walking through the park to Chatsworth House (approx. 20-30 mins), then catching the bus onwards to Bakewell from the house itself.
Planning a day out
A perfect itinerary using the 170 could look like this:
- 09:30: Start with a coffee in Chesterfield and a quick visit to the Crooked Spire.
- 10:30: Board the 170 towards Bakewell.
- 11:15: Hop off at Chatsworth House. Spend a few hours exploring the gardens or the house.
- 14:15: Catch the bus from Chatsworth to Bakewell.
- 14:30: Late lunch in Bakewell (a pudding is mandatory!) and a stroll by the river.
- 17:00: Catch the 170 back to Chesterfield, watching the sunset over the hills.
Year-round appeal
While the summer brings lush greenery and vibrant gardens at Chatsworth, the 170 is a fantastic route all year round. In autumn, the turning leaves in the parkland are spectacular. In winter, seeing the Christmas lights at Chatsworth or the frost-covered dales from the warmth of the bus is a cosy, memorable experience.
