Crown Corner Matlock 1444387893
Matlock Bath 1220 x 620 1730865918
Street Matlock 1247257356
Park 4 Matlock 1585003972

    Location

    Welcome to Matlock & Matlock Bath

    Two of the most popular places to visit in Derbyshire, occupying a beautiful position in a limestone valley.

    Things to do in Matlock & Matlock Bath in the Peak District & Derbyshire

    A visit to the neighbouring towns of Matlock and Matlock Bath should feature in everyone’s itinerary for a Derbyshire day out! They occupy a beautiful position in a stunning limestone valley and both offer a wealth of attractions for the whole family.

    Matlock

    Once famed for its hydro and spa treatments, Matlock's central location, scenic surroundings and public transport links make it a popular base for exploring the Peak District and Derbyshire.

    Pioneering industrialist John Smedley developed the attractive market town as a fashionable spa in the 19th century, and his legacy lives on in buildings such as Smedley's Hydro (now the offices of Derbyshire County Council) and Gothic-style Riber Castle. His name is also familiar to customers of world-renowned knitwear manufacturers John Smedley at nearby Lea Bridge, who export high-quality menswear and womenswear across the globe.

    There are plenty of things to do in Matlock. In the heart of Matlock sits Hall Leys Park with its boating lake, riverside walks, tennis courts and skateboard park. In Matlock town centre there are pretty streets full of small, independent shops, and a host of cafés, pubs and restaurants in which to relax.

    See below for all the Matlock attractions and a suggested Matlock itinerary.

    Matlock Bath

    Just a mile and a half to the south, Matlock Bath is a lively town that was developed as one of England’s first true tourist destinations. It has been attracting visitors since the late 17th Century, and by the 19th Century it was a place for the finest in society to be seen, including royalty. Lord Byron dubbed it ‘Little Switzerland’ on account of its magnificent views and steep, wooded hillsides. Matlock Bath is just as much fun to visit today. It has a long high street lined with quirky shops, cafés, amusement arcades and visitor attractions, as well as peaceful paths for shady strolls alongside the River Derwent.

    A popular destination for families, bikers and fun seekers, there are plenty of things to do and see in Matlock Bath. Take a cable car flight to the Heights of Abraham, a historic 60-acre hilltop estate, and enjoy cavern tours, exhibitions, adventure playgrounds and much more, plus regular special events throughout the season.

    There is wide a variety of accommodation available for overnight stays and with good transport links it is a popular destination for a day trip. The Matlock Bath Illuminations are a popular feature from September to the end of October, when the riverside is decorated and the cliffs floodlit to create a magical scene of colour. At weekends during the Illuminations there are parades of decorated boats, entertainments and, on certain dates, firework displays.

    The Riverside Gardens and Lovers Walks along Giddy Edge offer gentle strolls away from the crowds, and nearby High Tor affords spectacular views from its lofty summit.

    FAQs

    Is Matlock worth visiting?

    There are plenty of things to do in Matlock, Matlock highlights include the award-winning Hall Leys Park as well as a myriad of independent shops, bars and restaurants.

    Why is Matlock Bath famous?
    Matlock Bath is affectionately known as the seaside town of Derbyshire, with classic seaside features such as fish and chip shops, amusement arcades and attractions like Matlock Bath Aquarium and the Heights of Abraham, where you can take a cable car ride to a historic hilltop estate.

    Which is best, Matlock or Matlock Bath?
    Matlock vs Matlock Bath, the simple answer is what do you like to do?
    Matlock or Matlock Bath for shopping – for fun arcades or fish and chips, choose Matlock Bath. For independent shops, restaurants, bars, and antiques choose Matlock.
    Matlock or Matlock bath for families – for an inland seaside fun day it has to be Matlock Bath.
    Matlock or Matlock Bath for scenery – Ride the Heights of Abraham's cable cars at Matlock Bath and take in the views of the whole valley.
    Matlock or Matlock Bath for hiking – both are great starting points for walking locally, and with regular train and bus services from both, it's easy to explore these scenic destinations. It's also possible to walk between the two resorts along High Tor; download our walking route.

    What was filmed in Matlock?
    A number of films and TV shows have been shot in Matlock, in 2004 Shane Meadows set his gritty drama ‘Dead Man Shoes’ in Matlock, the story of Richard who returns to his home town of Matlock after serving in the British Army.

    Is there free parking in Matlock Bath?
    There is limited parking space in Matlock Bath and most are Pay & Display. The best option is to leave the car at home and travel by train or bus.

    New for 2023

    Stagecoach Gold X17 extended to Matlock Bath and Wirksworth
    From 28th May 2023 Stagecoach Gold X17 from Sheffield and Chesterfield will be extended to Matlock Bath, Cromford and Wirksworth.
    - Sheffield and Chesterfield to Matlock Bath – now up to every 30 mins.
    - Now also stopping at Matlock Bath, Cromford and Wirksworth – hourly, 7 days a week.
    - Still only £2 single fare until 30th June 2023. View the new X17 timetable.

    In The Area

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    Peak Village

    Peak Village is nestled in the heart of the Derbyshire countryside in the picturesque village of Rowsley, just a stone’s throw from Chatsworth House…


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    Matlock Farm Park

    Come on down to Matlock Farm Park, the ideal place for families to visit to enjoy the fresh air and have fun with our friendly animals.


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    Hoe Grange Gorgeous Glamping Pods and Gypsy…

    Go glamping in style with stunning views of the Peak District countryside from your pillow. Spacious ensuite shower and every luxury you need for a…


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    Hoe Grange Holidays

    4 award winning log cabins set on a working farm with stunning views of the White Peak countryside. Unwind in the hot tub or log-fired sauna. Dogs…


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    Matlock Farm Park Riding School

    Enjoy horse riding in the beautiful surroundings of Matlock Farm Park, with views over to Riber Castle.


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    Gulliver's Kingdom Theme Park

    Discover a beautiful family-run theme park that is perfect for younger children. We have over 60 rides and attractions including play areas…


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    Great British Car Journey

    Boasting a collection of 150+ modern British classics, Great British Car Journey tells the story of the rise and fall of the British motoring…


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    White Peak Distillery

    Established in 2016, White Peak Distillery is the first full-scale, craft distillery in the Peak District region.


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    Stainsborough Hall

    Stainsborough Hall and its five independent holiday cottages provides a beautiful base for an idyllic, pet-friendly, country getaway for the whole…


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    Chatsworth Kitchen

    Nestled in the village of Rowsley on the edge of the Peak District, Chatsworth Kitchen celebrates quality, seasonal dishes sourced from the estate…


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    Darwin Forest

    Darwin Forest is an award winning 5 star lodge holiday park which is set in 47 acres of stunning woodland. The luxury lodges are perfect for spending…


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    Heights of Abraham

    Take a cable car flight to the Heights of Abraham 60-acre hilltop park, with cavern tours, exhibitions, adventure play and much more.


    Our Great Itineraries

    Car-free guide: 48 hours in the Derwent Valley

    Connecting charming towns and villages with an amazing industrial past, the Derwent Valley Line runs from Derby to Matlock.


    Day trip from Sheffield: Explore Matlock &…

    The busy market towns of Matlock and Bakewell are a great day out for all the family and the bus is the hassle-free way to travel.


    Day trip from Sheffield: Explore Matlock Bath,…

    Discover some of Derbyshire's most popular towns and villages by bus.


    Events in Matlock & Matlock Bath

    Featured

    Events

    Cable Car 40th Birthday Party at The Heights of…

    Come and enjoy a birthday party like no other! It's 40 years since the original cable cars were installed at the Heights!


    Events

    A Day Fit for a Prince or Princess! Easter at The…

    Celebrating the fact that Queen Victoria visited the Heights of Abraham when she was a young princess, Easter weekend will be a regal extravaganza!


    Events

    Good Friday -The Snow Sisters! at Matlock Farm…

    Time to channel your inner Anna and Elsa and join in with the fantastic Snow Sisters’ Singalong shows!!


    Trails nearby

    Matlock to Bonsall Walk

    This beautiful 4.3 mile route from the bus stop takes you out across open countryside on field paths to the pretty village of Bonsall, offering…


    The Peak District GeoWalk

    The GeoWalk is a must for rock enthusiasts guiding you through the stunning Peak District landscape and rock formations.


    High Tor, Giddy Edge and Lovers Walk

    A linear walk with superb cliff-top views, from Matlock to Matlock Bath via High Tor.


    A Stroll along Cromford Canal

    A walk along the old canal tow path on the five mile stretch through the Derwent Valley between Ambergate and Cromford passing through the village of…


    Offers

    Special Offer

    Stay Longer for Less at Townhead Farmhouse B&B

    £10 discount for 2/3 nights £15 for 4 nights or longer


    Villages nearby

    Bonsall

    Crich

    Lea

    Tansley

    Winster

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