What to do in Matlock

Our Riverbank Bed & breakfast and Riverbank Self-Catering are ideally placed in the centre of Matlock to explore the town and its attractions. If you are attending a function or wedding reception at County Hall we are within walking distance. The River Derwent flows past at the bottom of our beautiful garden through one of the most attractive valleys in the country.

In Matlock town itself, we have the beautiful Hall Leys Park – just across the bridge from Riverbank House – where there are facilities for many outdoor sports and a large recreation ground for children. Overlooking the town, taking pride of place sits Riber Castle, the most well-known landmark in the Matlock. Despite its battlements and turrets, it isn’t truly a castle. In fact, it was built in the mid-19th century for Mr John Smedley, a local textile manufacturer who was the man who developed Matlock as a spa. Smedley’s former Hydro now houses the County Council offices. We have many gorgeous places to explore, relax, eat, drink and take in the amazing scenery which Matlock is the heart of.

The Matlocks, including Matlock Bath and Matlock itself, consists of the chain of small towns running down the spectacular Derwent valley. Known as the area of 1000 views, and a gateway to the Derbyshire Dales, the Matlocks typify Derbyshire scenery at its best: a combination of the river valley, wooded hills with steep sides and the occasional dramatic limestone crag and peak. There is a spider’s web of paths which enable the visitor to explore this countryside.

Matlock Bath became well-known during the 19th century for its thermal waters which stay at a constant temperature all year round. At the Grand Pavilion, a music festival is put on every year in June as a part of the Matlock Live week; rowing boats leave from the landing stage alongside it.

The charming Derwent Gardens lie between the Pavilion and the river. Coloured lights illuminate the gardens and the walks from the August bank holiday to the end of October which is a hugely popular event. The thermal waters here are the cause of several unusual features: in the fish pond adjoining the Grand Pavilion can be seen rare and many-coloured fish.

Take a cable car up to the famed Heights of Abraham where the Victoria Prospect Tower stands, offering views over the whole area. In the grounds are two caverns, Rutland and Masson, which can be explored; both were once worked by the Romans for lead and offer the newcomer an easy initiation into caving. In Matlock Dale rises the impressive peak of High Tor. Paths provide an easy climb to the top of the Tor which gives views of the 1,100 ft Masson Hill and its gorge below.

Café in the Park in Matlock …

Cafe in the Park has a fabulous range of meals, cakes, drinks and also some delicious ice creams. The Café also provides Riverbank House guests with lovely picnics pre-ordered the day before guests require them. Tel 01629 593633. Just wander over to the park after your full English breakfast and collect your tasty picnic box for your day out.

Prospect Tower, offering views over the whole area. In the grounds, too, are two caverns, Rutland and Masson, which can be explored; both were once worked by the Romans for lead and offer the newcomer an easy initiation into caving. In Matlock Dale rises the impressive peak of High Tor. Paths provide an easy climb to the top of the Tor which gives views of the 1,100 ft Masson Hill and its gorge below.

The most popular restaurants get booked up in advance, please book early to avoid disappointment. All within walking distance of Riverbank House …