Matlock
Matlock is a very attractive town on the edge of the Peak District, with plethora of interesting places to visit and several nearby family attractions.
Matlock Town and Dale viewed from the Heights of Abraham © TAB
Matlock, and the nearby Matlock Bath, are two towns of very different character. Matlock is a bustling commercial centre, whilst Matlock Bath is a much smaller tourist resort, which developed around the warm springs that made it a popular spa in Victorian times. The spectacular Derwent Gorge, with its pleasant walks and trails, runs between the two towns.
Matlock, the municipal county town of Derbyshire, grew up around the ancient stone bridge that crosses the Derwent. Its lovely riverside setting in a steep wooded gorge, is always spectacular, whatever the weather.
The town has many interesting shops to look around, with a range of both familiar and independent outlets along the High Street. There are also plenty of pubs cafes and restaurants, offering a wide range of refreshments from coffee and snacks to full course meals.
Matlock outdoor market is held on each Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. A farmers market is also held on the 3rd Saturday of the month. Many events and festivals are held in the town throughout the year, including a Victorian Christmas weekend on the first week of December.
Riber Castle © TAB
Overlooking Matlock to the south (at a height of 800 ft (245 m)) is Riber Castle, designed and built in 1862 by John Smedley. Smedley was a rich textile baron who helped developed Matlock as a spa town. The house fell into ruins during the 1960s and its grounds later became a Nature Reserve and Wildlife Park. The site is currently being restored and converted into luxury apartments.
Visitor Information Centre: |
Peak Rail, Matlock Riverside Station, Matlock telephone 01629 761103 |
What to see and do in Matlock
Hall Leys Park
The beautiful Hall Leys Park on the banks of the Derwent, has a traditional bandstand, boating lake, miniature golf and children's play area.
Matlock Bath
For a list of attractions in Matlock Bath visit the Matlock Bath page.
Map of Matlock
The Midlands
