Things to do in Matlock

Matlock, located in Derbyshire, England, is a town with a rich history and beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can explore the Peak District National Park, the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, and many cultural attractions. Here are the top 8 things to do in Matlock.

Heights of Abraham

What is it?
The Heights of Abraham is a hilltop park that features a range of activities and attractions, including cable car rides, walking trails, cavern tours, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Why should you go?
Visiting the Heights of Abraham is a must-do during a trip to Matlock. The park's main attraction is the cable car ride, which takes visitors up to the top of Masson Hill, providing breathtaking views of the Derbyshire Dales. Once at the top, visitors can explore various attractions, such as the Great Rutland Cavern, which offers a fascinating insight into the area's mining history.

In addition to the cavern tour, visitors can also enjoy various walking trails, including the spectacular Tinker's Shaft trail. This trail leads visitors through ancient woodland, offering stunning views of the Derwent Valley and the surrounding countryside. For those interested in wildlife, the park is also home to various species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

Gulliver's Kingdom

What is it?
Gulliver's Kingdom is a family-friendly park themed around the story of Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift and is aimed at families with children aged between 3 and 13.

Why should you go?
Gulliver's Kingdom is a great place to take your family for a fun day out. The park has over 20 rides, including roller coasters and water rides. There are also a variety of live shows and entertainment options, as well as play areas and other activities for younger children.

One of the main attractions at Gulliver's Kingdom is the Lost World of the Dinosaurs, a walk-through attraction where visitors can see life-size dinosaur models and learn about the different species that once roamed the earth. Another popular attraction is the Smuggler's Run, a high-speed roller coaster that twists and turns through the park's grounds.

Matlock Bath Illuminations

What is it?
Matlock Bath Illuminations is an annual event that is a unique display of illuminated boats that travel along the River Derwent, accompanied by a range of music and entertainment. The boats are decorated with thousands of lights, creating a dazzling display that lights up the river and surrounding cliffs.

Why should you go?
 Matlock Bath Illuminations is a must-see for anyone visiting the area during autumn. The illuminated boats are a spectacular sight and provide a unique experience for visitors of all ages. The event also includes a range of entertainment, including live music and performances, fairground rides, and food and drink stalls. The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it a great way to spend an evening with family or friends.

Matlock Farm Park

What is it?
Matlock Farm Park is an award-winning family attraction. It's a working farm that offers visitors the opportunity to get up close to a variety of farm animals, including pigs, goats, donkeys, ponies, and alpacas. In addition to the animals, there are indoor and outdoor play areas, tractor rides, and a café serving homemade food.

Why should you go?
Matlock Farm Park is a great destination for families with young children. Kids will love the chance to pet and feed the animals, and there are plenty of opportunities for them to play and explore. The indoor soft play area is perfect for rainy days, and the outdoor play area, which features a large sandpit, slides, and swings, is ideal for sunny days.

The tractor rides around the farm is also a highlight for many visitors, providing an informative and entertaining way to learn more about the farm and its animals.

Hall Leys Park

What is it?
Hall Leys Park is a public park situated near the River Derwent that covers an area of approximately 4 hectares. It has a range of facilities, including a children's play area, tennis courts, a bowling green, and a miniature railway.

Why should you go?
Hall Leys Park is a great place to visit if you're looking for a relaxing day out in a beautiful setting. The park is well-maintained and has plenty of space for picnics, games, and leisurely walks. The children's play area is popular with families, while the tennis courts and bowling green provide opportunities for more active pursuits. The miniature railway is a particular highlight, taking visitors on a scenic journey through the park and along the river. Additionally, there are several events held in the park throughout the year, including music festivals, fireworks displays, and Christmas markets, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.

Cromford Mills

What is it?
Cromford Mills is a historic textile mill complex located in Cromford, Derbyshire. It was built by Sir Richard Arkwright, a leading entrepreneur in the Industrial Revolution, in the 18th century.

Why should you go?
Visiting Cromford Mills is a great way to learn about the early history of the Industrial Revolution in Britain. The mill complex has been carefully restored to its former glory, and visitors can explore the buildings and learn about the processes that were used to spin cotton and other fibers into thread.

There are a variety of exhibits and displays throughout the mill complex that offer insights into the lives of the workers who labored in the mills, as well as the social and economic changes that occurred as a result of the Industrial Revolution.

In addition to its historical significance, Cromford Mills is also a hub for contemporary arts and crafts. There are a variety of workshops and studios located on-site, where visitors can watch artisans at work and even try their hand at traditional crafts like weaving and pottery.

The Peak District Mining Museum

What is it?
The Peak District Mining Museum & Temple Mine is a museum located in Matlock Bath that offers visitors a glimpse into the area's mining heritage. The museum is housed in the Grand Pavilion building, which was originally built in 1910. The museum is home to a collection of mining artifacts, including tools, equipment, and machinery, as well as exhibits on the history of mining in the Peak District.

Why should you go?
Visiting The Peak District Mining Museum & Temple Mine is a great way to learn about the rich mining history of the Peak District. The museum's collection of mining artifacts and exhibits provides visitors with a fascinating look into the lives of the miners who once worked in the area. In addition to the exhibits, visitors can take a guided tour of Temple Mine, a preserved lead mine that dates back to the 1920s. The tour takes visitors underground, where they can see the mine's tunnels, shafts, and working conditions. Overall, a visit to The Peak District Mining Museum & Temple Mine is an educational and immersive experience that is sure to be enjoyed by all ages.

The Lumsdale Valley

What is it?
The Lumsdale Valley is a picturesque valley located in the Derbyshire Dales near Matlock. The valley is home to a series of historic mills, weirs, and ponds that date back to the Industrial Revolution.

Why should you go?
Visiting the Lumsdale Valley is a great way to experience a piece of the area's industrial history and enjoy the natural beauty of the valley. There are several walking paths that meander through the valley and take visitors past the old mills and ponds. The valley is also home to a variety of wildlife, including kingfishers, otters, and various bird species.

Along the walking paths, visitors can see the ruins of several mills and cottages that were once used by workers in the mills. Many of the structures have been preserved, and visitors can learn about the history of the mills and the people who worked there through information boards located along the paths.

The Lumsdale Valley is also a great place for photography enthusiasts. The combination of the rushing water, the old stone structures, and the lush vegetation make for stunning photo opportunities. Overall, the Lumsdale Valley is a unique and fascinating destination for those interested in history, nature, and outdoor recreation.