Matlock Bath is one of the best villages in the Peak District National Park. Its best known for its great family tourist attractions and also its exceptionally stunning surroundings. The village is a conversation area and has an abundance of gorgeous well preserved buildings. Its also surrounded by very tall limestone cliffs which tower above the centre.
History of the village - In 1698 warm springs were discovered and a Bath House was built. As the waters became more famous, access was improved by the building of the bridge into Old Matlock and in 1783, the opening of a new entrance at the south of the valley. Princess Victoria's royal visit in 1831 confirmed Matlock as a society venue of the time.
Royal visits in the 19th century meant that Matlock Bath gained fashionable status, and even Queen Victoria visited on two occasions in the mid 1800s. These visits served to enhance the reputation of the resort but eventually, the advent of the railway changed all that by bringing 'day trippers' by the score. It was at this time that Matlock Bath developed its inland 'seaside' resort image that it still carries today.
The rocky face of High Tor dominates the skyline around Matlock Bath, and the area draws plenty of walking and climbing enthusiasts. The winding river Derwent is equally as popular a draw, for picnics and boat rides. Be sure to ride the steam train between Matlock Riverside and Rowsley South for a nostalgic afternoon.
Riber Castle, set on a hill between Matlock and Matlock Bath is a 19th century listed country house in the gothic style, and has seen a colourful past. It has been a family home, an MoD storage site, and most recently a zoo. The zoo had a less than desirable track record on animal welfare and closed in 2000. Now the castle is abandoned and falling into disrepair, but still makes for eerie sight.
There are plenty of attractions to visit in the area too, including a textile museum, the Life in a Lens Museum of Photography, and a lead mining museum. Check out the aquarium in the old Victorian Baths, as well as the Whistlestop Countryside Centre, with its wildlife garden and learning and play areas. Gulliver's Kingdom is Matlock Bath's popular children's theme park, and features rides and play ares for the whole family. Also try Abraham Heights which is reached by a fun cable car ride.
History of the village - In 1698 warm springs were discovered and a Bath House was built. As the waters became more famous, access was improved by the building of the bridge into Old Matlock and in 1783, the opening of a new entrance at the south of the valley. Princess Victoria's royal visit in 1831 confirmed Matlock as a society venue of the time.
Royal visits in the 19th century meant that Matlock Bath gained fashionable status, and even Queen Victoria visited on two occasions in the mid 1800s. These visits served to enhance the reputation of the resort but eventually, the advent of the railway changed all that by bringing 'day trippers' by the score. It was at this time that Matlock Bath developed its inland 'seaside' resort image that it still carries today.
The rocky face of High Tor dominates the skyline around Matlock Bath, and the area draws plenty of walking and climbing enthusiasts. The winding river Derwent is equally as popular a draw, for picnics and boat rides. Be sure to ride the steam train between Matlock Riverside and Rowsley South for a nostalgic afternoon.
Riber Castle, set on a hill between Matlock and Matlock Bath is a 19th century listed country house in the gothic style, and has seen a colourful past. It has been a family home, an MoD storage site, and most recently a zoo. The zoo had a less than desirable track record on animal welfare and closed in 2000. Now the castle is abandoned and falling into disrepair, but still makes for eerie sight.
There are plenty of attractions to visit in the area too, including a textile museum, the Life in a Lens Museum of Photography, and a lead mining museum. Check out the aquarium in the old Victorian Baths, as well as the Whistlestop Countryside Centre, with its wildlife garden and learning and play areas. Gulliver's Kingdom is Matlock Bath's popular children's theme park, and features rides and play ares for the whole family. Also try Abraham Heights which is reached by a fun cable car ride.
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To find out more about the Peak District including Peak District Cottages see Inspire Breaks Peak District website www.inspirebreakspeakdistrict.co.uk for area guides, information and accommodation including places in Matlock Derbyshire
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