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Thursday, February 17, 2011

Holiday Village of the Peak District - Matlock Bath

By Becky Padmore


The pretty village of Matlock Bath is one of the most popular villages in the Peak District National Park, blessed with incredible, atmospheric and photogenic surroundings the area is also a conversation area. This means that that lovely buildings and historic architecture has been beautifully preserved. The village is set into a limestone gorge which means the imposing surroundings cliffs are quite a sight. The area is a tourist hot spot and is home to many attractions.

History of the village- Matlock Bath is a unique village south of Matlock in Derbyshire, built alongside the River Derwent in a steep and beautiful gorge. The warm springs, discovered in the late 1600s brought prosperity to the area, and the Bath House was constructed.

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 village has very unique scenery. The imposing High Tor surrounds the community which really attracts the climbers. The River Derwent is also nearby and is perfect for boating, picnics and relaxing by the river. Make sure you also ride the fabulous old stream train which runs between Matlock Riverside and Rowsley South.

Nearby between the town of Matlock and village of Matlock Bath is Riber Castle which is a country house built in the 19th century with interesting architecture. It's gothic style is not to everyone's tastes but it's an imposing site sitting high on a hill. It was once a stately home, a controversial zoo and an MOD storage facility.

You will be spoilt for choice for things to do when visiting Matlock Bath, as well as an aquarium, amusement arcades and great museums (try Life through a lens and the lead mining museum) there are also bigger attractions. Abraham Heights is a popular park with cable car rides, there is a countryside centre and the wonderful theme park Gulliver's Kingdom.




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