Buxton Crescent: UK Dec 2014

Designed by John Carr the Buxton Crescent is a Grade i listed building built in the late 18th century for the Fifth Duke Of Devonshire.

Having had this building as a lead for a fair amount of time and knowing possible work was in progress I chose a quiet day to go and have a gander at this beauty. Arriving well before dark to work out a point of access which was found quite easily I was inside before sunrise. I was lucky enough to find most of the building well lit inside so I was able to start shooting straight away.

Inside is a bit of a maze and it was a bit of a shame that the beautiful staircase was covered in plywood. I had forgotten what originally made me want to try and explore this building until I opened a large door and was reminded.

I was welcomed by a huge room with grand pillars and an exquisite painted ceiling, my jaw dropped as I remembered why I decided to come here, The Assembly Room.

The Crescent was originally built as a hotel and lodges. This later became two hotels and the Assembly Rooms was the social mecca of Buxton.

Later on the building was partly council offices and a hotel. Eventually due to rising maintenance costs the building became empty in 1993.

Renovation plans have been ongoing since and millions of pounds have been invested into the building, however as you can see the project is far from complete.

Buxton is a renowned spa town and little did I realise there was even more to this site. The Natural Mineral Baths which was last used as a tourist information centre. This was a pleasant surprise and added so much more to this stunning location.

I believe work has restarted on a £46 million project comprising a 79 room spa hotel with thermal mineral spa and a selection of shops. I hope this project can move along smoothly after being plagued with legal difficulties and funding issues.