Saturday, February 19, 2011

Popular Areas 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 - The development of Matlock Bath really began in 1698 with the discovery of the possible attraction of thermal water at a constant 68 degrees. The first 'bath' was built by local entrepreneurs to attract people to the village. Matlock Bath so fashionable that Princess Victoria even visited in 1831. Lord Byron likened the valley to ' an Alpine Switzerland' hence the nickname Little Switzerland.

Matlock Bath has always attracted tourism because of its natural beauty. The Parish Council, while encouraging tourism, will always lobby to ensure that the natural beauty of the area is not compromised. Once a society spa town now developed its inland 'seaside' resort image that it still carries today. Perfect for families looking for an English holiday village in lovely surroundings.

Matlock Bath is blessed with natural beauty and incredible scenery. Perfect for rock climbers is the tall High Tor which overlooks the community. The River Derwent is another popular natural feature which is certainly great for lazy afternoons and boating. If you're interested in history or trains then also try the charming stream train which runs between Matlock Riverside and Rowsley South.

Riber Castle is a 19th century Grade II listed country house situated in the hamlet of Riber on a hill overlooking Matlock, Derbyshire. It was built by John Smedley in 1862 as his private home and his wife lived in it until her death. It's built in a gothic style and is an interesting spot if only for its eerie atmosphere that surrounds it!

One of many of the things Matlock Bath does very well is attractions. There are many places to choose from including great museums such as Life through a lens and a lead mining museum. There is also a countryside centre, and the very popular Abraham Heights (which is complete with a cable car ride) and the fun theme park Gulliver's Kingdom.




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