
Despite sitting nearly 100 miles from the nearest coast, one pretty little UK village is fondly known as the ‘seaside town of Derbyshire’. Hidden within the hills of the Peak District, this village is a hidden gem for those seeking a getaway with coastal charm, without trekking to the nearest coastline.
Matlock Bath earns its ‘seaside town’ reputation from features like its several fish and chips shops, amusement arcades and its charming river. Though not quite the sea, the River Derwent flows through the centre of the village, adding to Matlock Bath’s nautical allure. Among the wildlife along the river are mayflies, swans and even otters.
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While some can choose to stroll the paths along the river, embracing the peaceful nature in the area, the village also offers a variety of independent shops and cafés along its high street.
Other popular activities include Matlock Bath Aquarium, priced online as £6.50 per person.
The aquarium houses over 50 species of fish and features one of the largest displays of holograms in Europe.
Matlock Bath also offers visitors the opportunity to jump on a cable car at The Heights of Abraham. Here, visitors can also stop for a picnic with the site’s picturesque views or dine at Vista Restaurant & Bar.
The pretty town is also often referred to as 'Little Switzerland', for its stunning natural beauty.
Visitors can also stop by Masson Mills, the 1783 cotton mill with a working textile museum which is part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The site is the best-preserved example of an Arkwright mill and now features an onsite café for those visiting.
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The village also offers plenty of other fun activities for the whole family like Gulliver’s Kingdom Amusement Park and Matlock Farm Park, the only farm in the area where children can feed the animals.
Derwent Gardens is also a highlight in the area. The park features a bandstand, children's play area, picnic areas and rowing boats, with several thermal springs emerging in the park to create the water gardens.
The park also features the Lovers' Walks, a series of footpaths along the riverside and up and over the magnificent cliffs.
Visit Peak District & Derbyshire writes about Matlock Bath: “Just a mile and a half to the south, Matlock Bath is a lively town that was developed as one of England’s first true tourist destinations.
“It has been attracting visitors since the late 17th Century, and by the 19th Century it was a place for the finest in society to be seen, including royalty.
“Lord Byron dubbed it ‘Little Switzerland’ on account of its magnificent views and steep, wooded hillsides. Matlock Bath is just as much fun to visit today.
“It has a long high street lined with quirky shops, cafés, amusement arcades and visitor attractions, as well as peaceful paths for shady strolls alongside the River Derwent.”