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
A visit to the neighbouring towns of Matlock and Matlock Bath should feature in everyone’s itinerary for a Derbyshire day out! They occupy a beautiful position in a stunning limestone valley and both offer a wealth of attractions for the whole family.
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.
FAQs
Is Matlock worth visiting?
There are plenty of things to do in Matlock, Matlock highlights include the award-winning Hall Leys Park as well as a myriad of independent shops, bars and restaurants.
Why is Matlock Bath famous?
Matlock Bath is affectionately known as the seaside town of Derbyshire, with classic seaside features such as fish and chip shops, amusement arcades and attractions like Matlock Bath Aquarium and the Heights of Abraham, where you can take a cable car ride to a historic hilltop estate.
Which is best, Matlock or Matlock Bath?
Matlock vs Matlock Bath, the simple answer is what do you like to do?
Matlock or Matlock Bath for shopping – for fun arcades or fish and chips, choose Matlock Bath. For independent shops, restaurants, bars, and antiques choose Matlock.
Matlock or Matlock bath for families – for an inland seaside fun day it has to be Matlock Bath.
Matlock or Matlock Bath for scenery – Ride the Heights of Abraham's cable cars at Matlock Bath and take in the views of the whole valley.
Matlock or Matlock Bath for hiking – both are great starting points for walking locally, and with regular train and bus services from both, it's easy to explore these scenic destinations. It's also possible to walk between the two resorts along High Tor; download our walking route.
What was filmed in Matlock?
A number of films and TV shows have been shot in Matlock, in 2004 Shane Meadows set his gritty drama ‘Dead Man Shoes’ in Matlock, the story of Richard who returns to his home town of Matlock after serving in the British Army.
Is there free parking in Matlock Bath?
There is limited parking space in Matlock Bath and most are Pay & Display. The best option is to leave the car at home and travel by train
or bus.
New for 2023
Stagecoach Gold X17 extended to Matlock Bath and Wirksworth
From 28th May 2023 Stagecoach Gold X17 from Sheffield and Chesterfield will be extended to Matlock Bath, Cromford and Wirksworth.
- Sheffield and Chesterfield to Matlock Bath – now up to every 30 mins.
- Now also stopping at Matlock Bath, Cromford and Wirksworth – hourly, 7 days a week.
- Still only £2 single fare until 30th June 2023. View the new X17 timetable.
Featured Businesses
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Business
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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Darwin Forest
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 spending…
Open today: 8:30am - 8:00pm
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Business
Gulliver's Kingdom Theme Park
Discover a beautiful family-run theme park that is perfect for younger children. We have over 60 rides and attractions including play areas…
Open today: 8:30am - 8:00pm
Business
The Birds Nest Apartment
In The Area
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Darwin Forest
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 spending…
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Business
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.
Featured
Business
Matlock Farm Park Riding School
Enjoy horse riding in the beautiful surroundings of Matlock Farm Park, with views over to Riber Castle.
Featured
Business
Peak Village
Peak Village is in the picturesque village of Rowsley, just a couple of miles from Chatsworth and Bakewell.
Featured
Business
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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Business
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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PeakePedals eBike Tours
Countryside eBike Tours are a new way to see the Peak District suitable for all levels of fitness & cycling experience
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Great British Car Journey
Boasting a collection of 150+ modern British classics, Great British Car Journey tells the story of the rise and fall of the British motoring…
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Business
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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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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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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Business
Gulliver's Kingdom Theme Park
Discover a beautiful family-run theme park that is perfect for younger children. We have over 60 rides and attractions including play areas…
Our Great Itineraries
Day trip from Sheffield: Explore Matlock Bath,…
Discover some of Derbyshire's most popular towns and villages by bus.
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.
Day trip from Sheffield: Explore Matlock &…
The busy market towns of Matlock and Bakewell are a great day out for all the family and the bus is the hassle-free way to travel.
Events in Matlock & Matlock Bath
Featured
Events
Lights of Abraham
This winter, experience the Heights of Abraham in a brand new light as we present our stunning light trail
Featured
Events
Fang-tastic Halloween Festival at Matlock Farm…
Get involved in some spooky goings on at Matlock Farm Park!
Events
Matlock Bath Illuminations
Matlock Bath Illuminations is a fun-packed family event featuring a spectacular parade of illuminated and decorated boats along the River Derwent.
Trails nearby
Matlock to Bonsall Walk
This beautiful 4.3 mile route from the bus stop takes you out across open countryside on field paths to the pretty village of Bonsall, offering…
The Peak District GeoWalk
The GeoWalk is a must for rock enthusiasts guiding you through the stunning Peak District landscape and rock formations.
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…
Matlock Bath to High Tor and Riber Walk
This walk is a lovely 3 mile circular walk via High Tor, Riber and Starkholmes.
Offers
Special Offer
Save up to 25% on lodge holidays at Darwin Forest
Enjoy great discounts on luxury lodge holidays at Darwin Forest near Matlock.
Special Offer
Stay Longer for Less at Townhead Farmhouse B&B
£10 discount for 2/3 nights £15 for 4 nights or longer
Villages nearby
Bonsall
An attractive, historic former lead-mining village set in steep-sided converging limestone dales.
Crich
A pretty village on the edge of the Derbyshire Dales, home of the National Tramway Museum.
Lea
Lea is situated in picturesque countryside climbing up from the Derwent Valley. Its most famous resident was Florence Nightingale and is home to the official John Smedley factory shop at Lea Mills.
Tansley
East of Matlock on the edge of some fine countryside with many remains of old mills here in the valley between the village and Matlock. Much restoration work has been achieved over the years with the old properties being put to new uses.
Winster
Hidden up in the limestone hills and surrounded by glorious scenery. With more than 70 listed buildings, foremost being the Old Market Hall, dating from the 17th century, together with The Old Hall and Dower House, and a conservation area.
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