Matlock Bath
A picturesque Victorian spa town, which developed during the 19th century, in the beautiful valley of the River Derwent. The sister town of Matlock is located just a couple of miles to the north. Between Matlock and Matlock Bath lies the magnificent Derwent Gorge, which runs between the 750 ft summit of the Heights of Abraham and the 380 ft High Tor. The gorge forms a beautiful steep sided valley, with wooded slopes and the occasional outcrop of craggy limestone cliffs.
Mattock Bath became renowned during the 19th-c for its thermal spring waters, which maintain a constant 20°C (68°F) temperature all year round. The Pavilion where the Victorians once took the waters is now a mining museum, which tells the story of lead mining in the area since Roman times.
Between the Pavilion and the river sit the charming Derwent Gardens and on the opposite bank is a lovely riverside path, nicknamed 'Lovers' Walk'. Coloured lights illuminate the gardens and the river walk during September evenings. A floating fete also takes place along this stretch of the river in late summer.
Dominating the town to the north are the Heights of Abraham. This rugged limestone hill was named after its similarity to cliffs that General Wolfe scaled to capture Quebec in 1759. The Victoria Prospect Tower, located at the summit, commands breathtaking views of the Derwent valley and surrounding dales. There are two large show caverns in the Heights, which can also be visited.
What to see and do in Matlock Bath
Gulliver's Kingdom
The kids will enjoy a day out at Gulliver's Kingdom theme park. Designed for families with children aged from 2 to 13. Contains over 65 rides and attractions plus an exciting dinosaur area.
Opening times: daily
during the summer months: 10 am to 5 pm - Admission
Charge
Location: Temple Walk, Matlock Bath,
Derbyshire DE4 3PG - Tel: 01925 444888 - Website
Heights of Abraham Hilltop Park
Take
an amazing cable car ride across the Derwent Valley,
with stunning all-round views, and visit the attractions
at the top. There are two immense caverns on the heights,
Rutland and Masson, which were once worked for lead
by the Romans and can be explored by guided tour. Other
attractions include the High Falls fossil exhibition,
the Masson Pavilion exhibition and a children's play
area. Special events and exhibitions run throughout
the year.
Once you have finished enjoying the sights you can relax and enjoy a cuppa in the Hilltop cafe, with its spectacular views across the valley and town below.
Opening times: Feb
to Mar daily from 10am - Admission
Charge (includes entry to show caves)
Location: Matlock Bath, Derbyshire,
DE4 3PD - Tel: 01629 582365 - Website
Life in a Lens museum
Situated in a fine Victorian style tea shop overlooking the river. This interesting little museum is dedicated to the history of popular photography, dating back to its invention in 1839.Opening times: from
11am during the summer - Small Admission
Charge
Location:118 North Parade, Matlock Bath, DE4 3NS - Tel: 01629 583325 - Website
Matlock Bath Aquarium
Traditional aquarium with over 50 species of fish on display. Exhibits include a Hologram display, a thermal carp pool, a traditional 'Petrifying well', gem and fossil display and a collection of Goss and Crested China.
Opening times:10:00am
– 5:30pm daily from Easter to October - Small
Admission Charge
Location:110 North Parade, Matlock Bath, Derbyshire DE4 3NS - Tel: 01629 583624 - Website
Matlock Bath Illuminations
A magical parade of illuminated boats float along the river - topped by a spectacular fireworks display on Saturday nights. Held on Saturday and Sunday nights from early September to late October.
Peak District lead Mining Museum
Lead-mining
was an important industry in this area during Roman
times. This fascinating museum, located in the old
Victorian spa pavilion, offers fun and interest for
all the family. Where visitors can crawl through tunnels
and mine workings and learn about local rocks and minerals.
Opening times: all
year - Admission Charge
Location: The Pavilion, Matlock Bath,
Derbyshire, DE4 3NR - Tel: 01629 583834 - Website
Map of Matlock Bath
The Midlands
