Top Things to do in Matlock and Matlock Bath

If you are looking to stay somewhere around the Peak District, Matlock has it all: stunning scenery, great food and plenty to do. Here are some of our top recommendations during your stay in Matlock.

Heights of Abraham

Take a cable car up to the famous Heights of Abraham hill-top estate where you can take in the spectacular views, take part in a guided cavern tour, enjoy some great food and drink and more! 

The cable car runs between 10am – 5pm each day. You can find more information on the opening times and prices here. 

This is a great option for the whole family, as even the dog can come too! 

Great Masson and Great Rutland Caverns

While you are up on the Heights of Abraham be sure not to miss the Great Masson and Great Rutland Caverns. First excavated by the Romans, these twisting caverns continued to grow over the next 1800 years until the 17th century. The combination of these man made and natural structures is fascinating to see. 

The Great Masson Cavern is an incredible sight with its high ceilings, it will take your breath away. The Great Rutland Cavern on the other hand provides an interesting insight into what it was like to be a miner in the 17th century with plenty of well-preserved carvings on the walls. 

Walk From Matlock to Matlock Bath

Go for a stroll along the River Derwent for an easy-going walk between Matlock and Matlock Bath. Along the way you can also take a detour and enjoy the views from Mam Tor. 

Giddy Ledge

Speaking of Mam Tor… if you’re more of  a thrill seeker you can also reach this hill via Giddy Ledge, AKA ‘Britain’s scariest footpath.’  At 300 ft above ground, Giddy Ledge is most certainly not for the faint-hearted. Although there is a metal handrail to help you keep balance, we do not recommend that you do this trail if you have a fear of heights or if you don’t have proper footwear. 

Gulliver’s Kingdom

A perfect day out if you’ve got kids between 2-13 years old. This theme park boasts 20 rides which are perfect for younger kids, including a log flume, a mine ride and a drop tower. The rides are spread across 8 different zones which have a different theme, including Western World, Party Land and Adventure Land. 

Enjoy Some Fish and Chips

With plenty of chippys along the riverside promenade in Matlock Bath, there’s no better place to enjoy some fish and chips. 

Go for a Stroll in the Peak District

Matlock is perfectly located for anybody who wants to explore the Peak District by foot. From Matlock you can very quickly and easily access tons of great walking routes such as Jacob’s Ladder and more! 

Nerf Zone Matlock Bath

Another great activity for kids! Nerf Zone is actually part of Guilliver’s Kingdom, however it is a seperate paid-for attraction. At Nerf Zone, your kids will get kitted out with a nerf blaster, goggles and a target vest. They will be able to sharpen their shooting skills in the training area before being sent into the main battle arena!

Matlock Bath Illuminations 

If you are visiting between September and October, the Matlock Bath Illuminations are definitely worth a visit. During this time the riverside at Matlock Bath is filled with illuminations and fairground attractions with fireworks on every Saturday of the event.

Nine Ladies Stone Circle 

This beautiful and atmospheric stone circle dates all the way back to the Bronze Age! According to local legend, the stones represent nine women and a fiddler who were turned to stone because they dared to dance on a Sunday. 

Peak District Mining Museum

Another great option for the family. At the Peak District Mining Museum, you can learn all about the history of lead mining throughout the Peak District. You will also get the opportunity to operate rag and chain pumps along with climbing mining shafts.

Lover’s Walk

The Lover’s Walk in Matlock will take you along the riverside and up some magnificent cliffs all the way to High Tor. Woodland covers a good portion of this walking route which has been designated a ‘Site of Special Scientific Interest.’ The walking route will also take you past Derwent Gardens, the site of the Matlock Illuminations.    

Ride an Old Steam Train

Fans of trains will enjoy taking a ride on the preserved steam train railway line between Rowsley South Station and Matlock. Depending on the time of year you can also enjoy a unique dining experience on the Palatine Restaurant car where you can have Sunday lunch, Christmas lunch or afternoon tea. There are also tons of other interesting events throughout the year such as Santa Specials and Easter egg hunts. 

For more ticket information including pricing and availability, you can check the website here. 

Reach the Summit at Pic Tor

You can reach the summit at Pic Tor in no time at all and you’ll get to walk through some real highlights of Matlock including Hall Leys Park and Knowleston Gardens along with the River Derwent. From the war memorial you’ll be able to take in some incredible views of Matlock and the surrounding areas including the Riber Castle. 

If you’re not quite worn out from this walk you can also continue up to High Tor. 

Go Antiques Shopping

There are no shortage of interesting antique shops in and around Matlock where you can browse for hidden gems and bargains you probably wouldn’t find anywhere else. You never know what you will find!

Visit Matlock Bath Aquarium

A family friendly activity, everyone can enjoy. The aquarium is located in the centre of Matlock Bath and boasts over 50 species of fish! The aquarium is also home to one of the largest collections of holograms in Europe, a thermal pool and much more. 

For more information, visit the Matlock Bath Aquarium page here.

Crich Tramway Village

Crich Tramway Village is located just outside of Matlock Bath and makes a great family day out. It is home to the National Tramway Museum which features over 60 vintage trams for you to see.

The village itself is also a sight to see as it is carefully modeled after a period village featuring a pub, a cafe, a children’s playground and other old-timey style shops. You’ll also be able to take a ride at historic tram stops located around the village. These trams will also take into the Derbyshire countryside for some magnificent views. 

Visit Cork Stone

Located on Stanton Moor, the Cork Stone is a weathered sandstone natural monument which resembles a mushroom or a cork depending on who you ask.  What makes the stone more interesting is that it is covered in graffiti from the 19th and 20th century along with steps carved into the side of it.  

Lea Gardens 

A collection of flowers such as Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Alpines and Conifers all housed together in the beautiful Lea Gardens. You can also find a garden shop along with a cafe as well.

Visit Sir Richard Awkright’s Masson Mills

Sir Richard Awkright’s Masson Mills in Matlock are the best preserved examples of the entrepreneur’s cotton mills. For more information on visiting the mills, visit: https://www.massonmills.com/ 

Hall Leys Park

This award-winning park can be found in the centre of Matlock and features a lake, riverside walking routes, tennis court and a skate park.

The park is perfect for an afternoon out with the family as it also features a playground and a miniature railway.

Go For a Walk by Cromford Canal

A designated area of special scientific interest, Cromford Canal is a real highlight of Matlock and the surrounding areas. You can follow the canal from Cromford Mills, the 5 mile route will take you to Ambergate and you will pass through Whatstandwell, High Peak Junction and Leawood Pump House. 

Canoeing on the River Derwent

If you’re looking for a bit of adventure during your stay in Matlock, why not go canoeing on the River Derwent? There are a variety of different providers who can take you out canoeing on the river while you enjoy the views of the Peak District.

We hope you found this guide helpful, there’s something for everybody in Matlock!

Book Your Stay Now

If you are looking for somewhere to stay in the Peak District, book your stay with us now.