Exploring Matlock & Matlock Bath: A Journey Through Heritage and Scenic Beauty
Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, the picturesque towns of Matlock and Matlock Bath offer a charming blend of rich history, scenic landscapes, and contemporary amenities. As the nerve centre of Derbyshire, these towns have plenty to offer locals and visitors alike.
Matlock: A Quintessential Market Town with a Spa Heritage
Famed for its hydro and spa treatments during the Victorian era, Matlock is an attractive market town that today serves as a perfect base for exploring the spectacular Peak District and Derbyshire county. Matlock’s strategic location, coupled with its well-connected public transport system, facilitates easy exploration of the scenic surroundings.
The influential industrialist, John Smedley, played a pivotal role in shaping Matlock into a fashionable spa town in the 19th century. His lasting impact on the town’s architecture is evident in landmarks such as Smedley’s Hydro, now housing the offices of Derbyshire County Council, and the Gothic-style Riber Castle. John Smedley is also renowned globally as the name behind high-quality menswear and womenswear, manufactured at the nearby Lea Bridge and exported across the world.
The heart of Matlock lies in Crown Square, straddled by the meandering River Derwent. Here, you’ll discover the award-winning Hall Leys Park, featuring a serene boating lake, riverside walks, tennis courts, and a skate park, making it a fantastic spot for leisurely activities. Crown Square and the neighbouring A6 road are lined with unique independent shops, cafés, and pubs, forming a thriving hub of local life.
Venturing afield is a breeze with Matlock’s rail link to Derby and bus services to Derby, Manchester, and other towns and villages in the area, making it an ideal base for visitors wanting to explore the wider region.
Matlock Bath: The Inland Seaside Town
Located just 1.5 miles south of Matlock, the quaint hamlet of Matlock Bath is often dubbed as ‘the seaside town without the sea’. With colourful buildings lining the River Derwent, Matlock Bath has been attracting visitors since the late 17th century when the therapeutic properties of its spa waters were first discovered. The town’s popularity surged during the Victorian era, leading to its affectionate nickname “Little Switzerland,” bestowed by the poet, Lord Byron.
Offering a wide range of activities for families, adventure enthusiasts, and nature lovers, Matlock Bath hosts an assortment of attractions. Accommodation options abound, from cosy bed-and-breakfast establishments to luxurious hotels, catering to both overnight visitors and day-trippers. The town’s hallmark event, the Matlock Bath Illuminations, lights up the riverside from September to October end. Decorated boats parade on the weekends, and on special dates, firework displays create a spectacular scene. These illuminations were once admired by Princess Victoria, later Queen Victoria herself!
For quieter pursuits, the Riverside Gardens and Lovers Walks along Giddy Edge provide gentle strolls, while nearby High Tor offers breathtaking panoramic views from its lofty peak.
A Glimpse into Neighbouring Villages:
Several charming villages dot the surrounding area, each carrying its unique charm and history.
Darley Dale, located close to the River Derwent, centres around the beautiful St. Helen’s church. The village owes much of its development to the industrialist Sir Joseph Whitworth. His legacy includes the multifaceted Whitworth Centre, along with its adjoining parkland. The churchyard is home to an ancient yew tree, one of the country’s thickest with a girth of 33ft.
Riber, overshadowed by the imposing shell of Riber Castle, is a small hilltop hamlet echoing medieval charm. The castle, built by local entrepreneur John Smedley, has been a notable landmark since 1862, visible from miles around.
Two Dales, aptly named after the twin valleys of Hall Dale and Sydnope Dale on either side of the village, carries a rich historical legacy. Once known as Toadhole until 1850, it was a flourishing community along the main route from Chesterfield to Bakewell. The village’s prosperity can largely be attributed to the Dakeyne family, who established the Ladybrook Mill. Initially a flax production site, the mill later produced lace and animal feed. Powered by three reservoirs nestled in the valley, the mill now offers picturesque walks through tranquil woods. The Smith family, another notable name in the area, owned nurseries in Two Dales. In 1939, one family member acquired the Red House, which became world-renowned as a riding and carriage driving school, and a museum.
Each of these villages contributes to the diverse and rich tapestry of the Matlock area, offering visitors a unique blend of history, scenic beauty, and local culture.
Whether you are a history aficionado, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or just someone seeking a relaxing escape, Matlock, Matlock Bath and the surrounding villages in the Peak District and Derbyshire offer a captivating blend of experiences that promise to make your visit unforgettable. Their perfect blend of history, scenic landscapes, and contemporary amenities positions them as must-visit destinations for anyone wishing to discover the true essence of the English countryside.
