Something for everyone: Matlock Bath

Matlock Bath's thermal springs were promoted after their discovery in 1698. They were visited by the rich and famous as a part of the 'Grand Tour' of Britain, en route to Chatsworth and the 'wild' Peak.

The railway reached Matlock Bath in 1849 bringing some of the very first day excursions. Up to 5 000 people at a time, office and factory workers from Nottingham, Derby and Leicester, visited the pleasure gardens, river promenade, petrifying wells, spar and marble in-layers and 'museums'. Although hotels were built, the narrow gorge restricted large developments. Instead, Matlock Bank (to the north) grew rapidly as an up-market resort. By 1900, there were nearly 30 'hydropathic establishments', where people took health cures, some catering for up to 2000 people. Matlock was promoted by the Victorians as 'Little Switzerland'.