Matlock (pop. 13,700) was a much-frequented spa in the 19th century and is still a popular resort. It is made up of a number of separate parts - Matlock Bridge, at a medieval bridge over the Derwent; Matlock Bank on the hills; and Matlock Bath, which is situated in the narrow gorge of the Derwent. East of Matlock Bath is High Tor, a limestone crag rising to a height of 400ft/122m above the river. The 19th century Riber Castle now has an animal and nature reserve. Rutland Cavern is a cave which was used as far back as Roman times (first/second century) for lead-mining.
Each year in June or July, Matlock holds the annual arts festival featuring local musicians, dance, and artists.
The Red House Stables Working Carriage Museum is located in Matlock. It has a collection of 40 original horse drawn vehicles and equipment in impeccable condition. Among the features of the collection is one of the few remaining Hansom Cabs.
This is a working museum and the owner ensures that the vehicles are in regular use out on the road. Sight-seeing tours into the Derbyshire countryside are available.
Address: Red House Stables Working Carriage Museum, Old Road Darley Dale, Matlock DE4 2ER, England
Hours:
January 1 to December 31: 10am-5pm
Disability Access: Full facilities for persons with disabilities.
Guides: Guided tour available as optional extra.
Transit: Train: Matlock Station or Chesterfield on the main Intercity line.
Ruins of a huge 15th C country mansion, where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned in 1569. Unoccupied since the 1770s.
Address: Wingfield Manor, Alfreton , England
Hours:
Always opened on: Spring Bank Holiday - Britain (last Monday, May ), Summer Bank Holiday - Britain outside Scotland (last Monday, August )
Always closed on: New Year's Day (January 1), Christmas Eve - Christian (December 24), Christmas - Christian (December 25), Day after Christmas, St Stephen's Day, Boxing Day (December 26)
Tips: Entry by pre-booked guided tour on the first Sat of month Apr-Sept only.
Disability Access: Partial facilities for persons with disabilities.