A Weekend along the Derwent Valley Railway

Enjoy a riverside walk, admire a skyline dominated by old mill buildings, Belper is a key part of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, where the modern factory system first took shape.

Learn about the 250 year history of the Mills with a guided tour of the oldest North Mill, take a stroll through the river gardens, and then settle in for lunch. Nourish is relaxed and friendly, while The Devonshire offers something heartier if you’re in the mood for a proper pub meal.

Hop back on the train to Cromford. Here you’ll find Arkwright’s Cromford Mill, once a revolutionary site that changed how the world worked — and now a place you can wander at your own pace. Just beyond it, the Cromford Canal offers a chance for a gentle walk along the waterside. Pause at Wheatcroft's Wharf Cafe for coffee by the water.

Continue to Matlock Bath where the valley narrows and the cliffs rise. There’s a slightly old-school seaside vibe here, despite being miles from the coast. Fish and chip shops line the river, and the promenade hums with energy. Embrace it. Grab a portion from Riverside Fish & Chips or Promenade Fish Bar, and eat by the water.

Then rise above it all. The cable car to the Heights of Abraham lifts you out of the busy town and into wide, open views across the valley and underground caves to explore. Or, if you prefer to earn your panorama, walk up to High Tor for dramatic views, where the cliffs drop dramatically below you

Check in somewhere with a bit of character, like New Bath Hotel if you want history and views, indulge yourself at the spa or enjoy the unique spring-fed outdoor lido, a chlorine-free geo-thermal pool offering year-round swimming in natural spring water.

Or take the short hop (or walk along the river) to Matlock for a more lively evening.

A pretty market town calmer and a little more understated than Matlock Bath — the perfect place to spend the evening.  Head out for dinner. Stones Restaurant is a highlight if you’re after something refined, or enjoy hearty, homemade pub fare & cocktails at the Remarkable Hare.

Start with breakfast at Mad Hatter Tea Rooms, delightfully quirky, or try Bod, housed in an art deco, former dispensing chemist.

Spend the morning in Matlock with tons of independent shops and the picturesque Hall Leys Park – the park is just a short walk from the station with a variety of activities available including a play area, electric boats and mini railway. The park hosts’ a variety of events and festivals throughout the year.

Take a riverside walk between Matlock and Matlock Bath or try the climb up High Tor for an expansive, slightly windswept view over the valley.

Heading back south, you might want to break the journey in Derby —visiting the Derby Museum and Art Gallery or exploring more of the regions industrial past at the award winning Museum of Making before a late lunch at The Book Café .

Or simply stay on the train, watching the valley unfold in reverse — fields giving way to towns until you’re back in Nottingham.

Everything is walkable from the rail stations

Riding through a UNESCO World Heritage landscape. It’s not just a train ride—you’re travelling through the birthplace of the industrial revolution, with historic mills, riverside scenery, and layered history all the way from Nottingham to Cromford.

Exploring Cromford – the birthplace of modern industry, paired with a peaceful walk along the Cromford Canal, and it’s a unique mix of industrial heritage and calm countryside.

The dramatic scenery around Matlock Bath is a big highlight, especially taking the cable car up to the Heights of Abraham with sweeping valley views.