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