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    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

    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.

    Crown Square and the River Derwent lie at the heart of Matlock, and the award-winning Hall Leys Park with its boating lake, riverside walks, tennis courts and skateboard park is a scenic option for a leisurely stroll.

    Small, independent shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants cluster around Crown Square and along the A6, while a rail link to Derby and bus services to Derby, Manchester and other towns and villages in the area are a boon for visitors wanting to explore further afield.

    Matlock Bath

    1.5 miles south of Matlock, Matlock Bath was developed as one of the country's first tourist destinations and is sometimes referred to as 'the seaside town without the sea'. Known for its colourful buildings set alongside the River Derwent, it's been a popular tourist destination since the late 17th century when spa waters were discovered here. Its heyday was in Victorian, times when it became known as "Little Switzerland" by the poet, Lord Byron.

    A popular destination for families, bikers and fun seekers, there are plenty of things to do and see in Matlock Bath. 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 displays were even once admired by Princess (later Queen) Victoria!

    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.

    Nearby villages:

    In The Area

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    WPD distillerytour Jessie Sytaphotography 810439607

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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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    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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    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 Riding School

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


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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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    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 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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    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.


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    Great British Car Journey

    Boasting a collection of 130+ modern British classics, Great British Car Journey tells the story of the rise and fall of the British motoring…


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    Landal Darwin Forest

    Landal 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…


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    Cromford Mills

    Explore the history of Cromford Mills and discover the captivating story of how the Derwent Valley changed the world in the 18th Century with the…


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    Holly Bush Farm

    A collection of luxury holiday houses ideal for large gatherings. Situated in a peaceful rural hamlet with stunning countryside views, right in the…


    Our Great Itineraries

    Belper North Mill

    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.


    Events in Matlock & Matlock Bath

    MFP Easter bunny 2023 NEW

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    Easter Holiday Fun at Matlock Farm Park!

    It’s jammed packed fun at Matlock Farm Park this Easter! 1st -16th April.


    Heights of Abraham playground new

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    Easter Weekend at The Heights of Abraham

    Take the Easter trail around The Heights of Abraham and enjoy a tasty prize! 8-10th April


    Trails nearby

    VPDD Standard Geo Walk 3

    The Peak District GeoWalk

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


    Matlock Bath Lovers Walk

    High Tor, Giddy Edge and Lovers Walk

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


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    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…


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    Matlock Bath to High Tor and Riber Walk

    This walk is a lovely 3 mile circular walk via High Tor, Riber and Starkholmes.


    Villages nearby

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    Bonsall

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    Crich

    Lea hurst 1584280602

    Lea

    Orchids tansley dale 1 541038454

    Tansley

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    Winster

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