Cradled in the rolling green hills of Derbyshire, Matlock is where Victorian spa-town elegance meets Peak District wilderness. Once famed for its healing waters, today it’s a gateway to leisurely riverside walks, historic mills and breathtaking hilltop views.
Just a short train ride from Derby, this charming market town and its neighbour Matlock Bath blend old-world nostalgia with easy access to some of England’s most scenic countryside, making it the perfect base for a weekend escape.
Where to stay on a tour to Matlock
No matter where you pitch up, you’re always going to want to choose the best caravan site to get the most out of your tour.
Tannenbaum Campsite is an open-all-year, back-to-basics site in Alderwasley (seven miles from Matlock) that makes a great base from which to explore the local area. There are no electric hook-ups, but the views are wonderful and there’s even an onsite bar and coffee hut.
Or you could consider Lickpenny Matlock CAMC Campsite. This scenic site sits above Tansley village, close to Matlock and Bakewell. Set within 16 acres of trees and rhododendrons, it offers more than 120 hardstanding pitches. All have 16-amp electric, with serviced options and on-site electric vehicle charging points.
What to do in Matlock on Day 1
9am – Big breakfast show
Ease into the weekend at Butter Fingers Café with a strong cup of coffee and a full English breakfast (with vegetarian options also on offer). The café’s big windows overlook bustling Dale Road – a slice of small-town Derbyshire at its best. And if you’re feeling really indulgent, pick up one of Butter Fingers’s colourful homemade bakes for the road.
10.30am – Morning mooch
After such a hearty, not to say filling, start to the day, Matlock’s riverside park is a gentle introduction to the town with manicured lawns, a tiny boating lake and easy walks along the River Derwent. Cross over to explore Dale Road’s antique shops and independent boutiques – perfect for vintage lovers and curious browsers.
12pm – Steam powered
At Peak Rail Station, hop on a lovingly restored steam train that puffs its way toward Rowsley. You’ll roll through green fields and limestone landscapes of the Derwent Hills, with the scent of coal smoke lingering above. Back in town, grab a quick lunch at Cool River Café, where fresh sandwiches and soups are served riverside.
1.30pm – Walks and lunch
A short drive (or a 20-minute walk along the Derwent) brings you to Matlock Bath, a charming cliff-foot village, home to beautiful riverside paths, cosy pubs and the Peak District Mining Museum.
2pm – Take in the views
Take the Heights of Abraham cable car for spectacular Peak District views. Up top, join a guided tour of the caverns once mined for lead and wander through woodland trails. The Vista Café makes an ideal stop for tea with a panorama.
If you’re visiting in autumn, the Matlock Bath illuminations light up the river each evening, with colourful boat parades and lanterns glowing in the trees.
3.30pm – Stroll to the mill
Just one mile south downriver, Cromford offers a change of pace. Visit the 17th-century Cromford Mills, the world’s first water-powered cotton mill, which is now home to a great visitor’s centre, before an afternoon stroll along the canal.
6.30pm – Waterside dining
Settle in at The Boat Inn, a cosy canal-side pub serving classics such as ale-battered haddock and sticky toffee pudding. For something refined, head back to Matlock and Stones Restaurant – a fine-dining favourite with river views.
What to do on Day 2
9.30am: Option 1: Chatsworth House (25-minute drive)
Explore one of Britain’s grandest stately homes, housing vast art collections and gilded ceilings along with 105 acres of landscaped gardens. The gorgeous grounds also feature the Cascade Fountain and Sculpture Garden. Treat yourself to lunch at the Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop Café, just across the river near Pilsley.
Option 2: Bakewell (20-minute drive)
The picturesque market town is a great base for walks in the area, or just for a day of exploring. Wander over the stone bridges, browse boutiques and stop for a sweet slice of Bakewell pudding at The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop.
12.30pm – Cosy long lunch
If you’re driving back towards Matlock via Beeley or Rowsley, why not stop at The Devonshire Arms, an elegant pub with roaring fires and brimming with Peak District charm? Alternatively, The Red Lion in Birchover serves up hearty lunch options in a warm and inviting setting.
2pm – Walk among the ruins
Return toward Matlock for an afternoon in the Lumsdale Valley, a romantically wild woodland and gorge, home to hidden waterfalls, ivy-covered mill ruins and tranquil woodland paths. For a more challenging – but rewarding – hike, try the Black Rocks near Cromford, for panoramic views across the Derwent Valley.
4pm – Independent living
If time allows, detour to Wirksworth, an artistic town filled with independent galleries, cosy cafés and cobbled lanes. The Northern Light Cinema often shows indie films if you fancy a quiet afternoon escape.
6.30pm – Tempting choices
Back in Matlock, bring your trip to a close with dinner at Maazi, a vibrant Indian restaurant in a converted cinema. Or you could try The Remarkable Hare restaurant, where the seasonal menu of dishes is curated to include the best local produce.
Something that can help you get the most from your tours is having the right accessories and gadgets. If you’re not sure what you should be considering getting for your tourer, take a look at our guide to caravan upgrades, where we share six items that we think will improve any on-tour experience.
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