Saturday, March 5, 2011

Popular Areas of the Peak District - Matlock Bath

By Becky Padmore


Matlock Bath is one of the best villages in the Peak District National Park. Its best known for its great family tourist attractions and also its exceptionally stunning surroundings. The village is a conversation area and has an abundance of gorgeous well preserved buildings. Its also surrounded by very tall limestone cliffs which tower above the centre.

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.

The rocky face of High Tor dominates the skyline around Matlock Bath, and the area draws plenty of walking and climbing enthusiasts. The winding river Derwent is equally as popular a draw, for picnics and boat rides. Be sure to ride the steam train between Matlock Riverside and Rowsley South for a nostalgic afternoon.

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.

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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