I’m staying at Ensana Buxton Crescent for a midweek night in October. I would appreciate any recommendations for places to eat/drink in walking distance and any nice walks (2 hour max) in the local area. Thanks

Pavillion gardens are nice walk to walk around. Rjght next to the Cresent. 24 reletively level acres. There are numerous walks around the town. Many include some steep hills and, a map if you dont know the area. But not all.
Drive a little out of Buxton on th A6 towards Bakewell and theres a nice level walk down through the Valley along the old railway line. Takes in Monsal Dale.
Another is to get a bus to the Cat and Fiddle and walk across the hill then down the Goyt Valley to Whaley Bridge. ( bus or train back to Buxton )
Beautiful views and a look at the stream that goes on to bigger things as the Mersey.
You'll be best with a map.
Lots of places to eat. Where your staying is supposed to be nice. There are various restaurants. The Thai at the back of the Cresent, opposite the entrance to the Palace Hotel and Dome is good. Have a look inside the Dome, if you can. Its part of Derby Uni now and think they still have somewhere to eat.

Chatsworth House

Just done the Monsal Trail today, parked at Bakewell Old Station, relatively flat being an old railway line 8.5 mile in length so depending on how long you want to walk can be up to a steady 17 miler. Some spectacular scenery, viaducts and tunnels to walk through and over.

Bike hire is available, should you prefer 2 wheels to being on foot.

Had a splendid Sausage Sandwich and a Bakewell Pudding (more of a thing than a Bakewell Tart in the local area) at Hassop Station Café which was a very popular spot for lunch.

Also a fantastic drive to and from Burnley, some amazing scenery as soon as you leave the M60 and make you way into the Peak District.

My first time out and about in the area, and I found a great deal to be enthused about.

I used to come over with my friends from Broadbottom on occasions to drink at the Cat & Fiddle.

This is a cracking walk and views,the caverns interesting as well.
https://poolescavern.co.uk/woodland-wal ... ns-temple/

Swiss Italian restaurant called St Moritz is outstanding, I'm planning on a trip to Buxton mostly to go there again.