Itineraries
Day trip from Sheffield: Explore Matlock Bath, Cromford & Wirksworth by bus
Discover some of Derbyshire's most popular towns and villages by bus.
About
From 28th May 2023, Stagecoach's X17 bus from Sheffield and Chesterfield to Matlock will be extended to Matlock Bath, Cromford and Wirksworth hourly, 7 days a week – providing a great reason to visit these beautiful corners of the county.
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.
From Matlock, the route stretches on to a host of new locations including Matlock Bath, sometimes referred to as 'the seaside town without the sea'; Cromford Mills at the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site; and Wirksworth, one of Derbyshire's prettiest market towns.
Plus, with fares capped at £2 per journey, there's never been a better time to hop on the bus and explore the Peak District and Derbyshire on a car-free adventure.
Itinerary Schedule
Catch the X17 Stagecoach from Sheffield
Catch the X17 service from Sheffield. The service runs every day from Sheffield and Chesterfield to Matlock up to every 30 minutes. Now stopping at Matlock Bath, Cromford and Wirksworth, hourly, 7 days a week. Grab a top deck seat for fabulous views of the Peak District and Derbyshire.
Browse Matlock's unique independent shops, cafes and restaurants
Explore Matlock and discover great independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Matlock is in the heart of the beautiful Derbyshire Dales in the Derwent Valley and is also a great starting point for some lovely walks. 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.
Hop on the bus to the Heights of Abraham - and get 20% off your ticket
Catch the bus to Heights of Abraham - a short 10-minute journey away - and take a cable car flight to the historic 60-acre hilltop estate and spend a day at one of Britain's top visitor attractions, with cavern tours, exhibitions, adventure play and much more. Take two different tours through underground illuminated caverns, explore three exhibitions, and soak up the views from the beautiful estate. Enjoy lunch in the Vista restaurant with an outstanding view to accompany your meal. Visitors arriving by bus or train get 20% off their ticket too!
Step back in time at Cromford Mills
It's a short 10-minute bus journey from Matlock Bath to Cromford, home of the historic Cromford Mills at the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. Built in 1771 by Sir Richard Arkwright, it is the world’s first successful water-powered cotton spinning mill and a cornerstone of the Industrial Revolution. During your visit explore the history of Cromford village and take a stroll along the pretty Cromford Canal.
Explore the market town of Wirksworth
With its pretty stone buildings and intricate network of narrow lanes, yards and alleys, Wirksworth is one of Derbyshire's prettiest market towns. The town is just 10 minutes by bus from Matlock Bath and visitors are spoilt for choice for things to do. The Heritage Centre tells the fascinating stories of the town, there are unique retailers to explore, and St. Mary’s Church – one of the finest in the county – is well worth a visit.
Take a steam train ride on the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
Escape to the countryside on Derbyshire's longest heritage railway and explore the scenic Ecclesbourne Valley on a beautiful 9 mile train ride between Wirksworth and Duffield! Hop on a steam train from the Wirksworth station on selected dates at weekends, Bank Holidays and school holidays.
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