Matlock Bath grew in popularity with the arrival of the railways in the nineteenth century, and the need to be seen at what was a growing resort during the Victorian era.

As a Spa, it had just about everything a visitor could ask for, mineral waters and a plentiful supply of hotels in which to stay and all surrounded by beautiful scenery that earned it the grand title of ‘Little Switzerland’.

It is here, that the village of Matlock Bath and the A6 trunk road to Derby both follow the winding trend of the deep and slow flowing river Derwent.

At this point, they proceed through a magnificent wooded gorge that is topped on the one side by the Heights of Abraham and the Victoria Prospect Tower, and opposite, there are the grounds of the impressively named, High Tor, with its famed Lover’s Walks laid out along the river’s edge.

For many years, the hills around here were mined for their extensive mineral wealth, and it is thought to have begun when the Romans first occupied Britain.

Today, whilst the quarrying of limestone continues within the area around Matlock Bath, most of the older workings have long been turned into show caves and mines dotted across the hillside directly above the promenade itself, on the slopes of Masson Hill.

Access to these attractions and general walks can be made by taking a cable car ride, which starts from a point close to Matlock Bath railway station.

There are many attractions to suit almost everyone. The Derwent Gardens, which start near the Peak District Mining Museum, formerly the old Pump Room, continue beside the river are set out with wonderful floral displays and leisurely meandering walks complete with its bandstand and Wells.

At night these gardens undergo a transformation when the illuminations are switched on during the summer season. If you love walking, then there are numerous roads that wind their way upwards towards the heights of Abraham and offer spectacular views across the valley. For children, there is Gulliver’s Kingdom and Theme park set above the A6 with a host of rides to enjoy.

As any visitor will attest, Matlock Bath has become a major tourist attraction in this part of Derbyshire, and as if to prove a point, there are countless shops all vying to part you with your money, or to make sure that you won’t in the least go hungry.

In return, you are almost guaranteed to have a jolly good time and leave at the end of your visit with a lot of long lasting memories.