Solomon's Temple

At the summit of Grin Hill, just a 20 minute brisk walk from Poole's Cavern, is Buxton's very own folly, Solomon's Temple. Pause here for a well-deserved breather and enjoy some spectacular views across the High Peak. Looking beyond the impressive Dome of the former Devonshire Hospital (now the University of Derby) and the dignified sprawl of Buxton, in fine weather you can see for 24 km (15 miles). On the horizon, look out for Mam Tor at Castleton, and Kinder Scout, which at 636m (2,088ft) - is the highest point in Derbyshire and the Peak District.

The tower itself was built in 1896 to replace an earlier structure constructed by Solomon Mycock a local farmer and landowner. Although not in the true spirit of a folly, that is having no practical purpose whatsoever, Solomon's Temple actually occupies a site of ancient significance. It rises from the centre of an ancient burial mound, and during the tower's construction an archaeological dig here revealled several Bronze Age skeletons from the 'Beaker' period, along with later Roman items.

Not built to withstand the ravages of time, Solomon's Temple had to be restored in 1988. True to the spirit of the original erection, this was done by public subscription, and the splendid folly remains one of Buxton's most distinctive landmarks.