Get More From Your Matlock Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Matlock gives you the perfect base to explore the Peak District with proper luxury and comfort. You get space to spread out and a private hot tub to soak in after a day of walking or sightseeing. We think it beats any hotel hands down.
Matlock sits in the Derwent Valley with dramatic limestone gorges and wooded hillsides all around. The town grew famous in the Victorian era as a spa destination and that heritage still shapes the place today. You'll find grand buildings from that period alongside modern cafes and independent shops.
The area works brilliantly for hot tub breaks because you can pack your days with activities then return to your cottage with hot tub for a proper wind-down. Whether you're after romantic breaks for 2 or large family getaways there's something here for everyone. The mix of natural beauty and historic attractions means you won't run out of things to do.
Sightseeing in Matlock
Matlock transformed from a small market town into a fashionable spa resort during the 1800s. The steep hillsides and river views create a distinctive landscape that's quite different from typical Peak District villages. Key landmarks include the Heights of Abraham cable car station and Riber Castle perched high above the valley.
Top 5 Attractions You Have to See in Matlock
The variety of attractions around Matlock means you can visit historical sites one day and explore caves the next. We've picked five places that really showcase what makes this area special.
Heights of Abraham
This hilltop park sits 200 metres above Matlock Bath and you reach it via Britain's first alpine-style cable car. Once up there you can explore two show caverns and walk through woodland trails with panoramic views across the Derwent Valley. The Great Rutland Cavern and Great Masson Cavern both feature impressive rock formations and mining history displays.
Gulliver's Kingdom
This theme park was built specifically for families with children aged 2 to 13. The rides and attractions suit younger visitors perfectly without the intimidation factor of bigger theme parks. You'll find over 40 rides spread across the hillside including roller coasters and water rides plus indoor play areas for rainy days.
Cromford Mill
Richard Arkwright built this water-powered cotton spinning mill in 1771 and it became the world's first successful factory. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage location and you can tour the restored buildings to understand how the Industrial Revolution started right here. The mill pond and surrounding village of Cromford are worth exploring too.
Matlock Farm Park
This working farm lets you get close to rare breed animals and watch sheepdog demonstrations. Kids can bottle-feed lambs in spring and collect eggs from the chicken houses. The indoor barn means you can visit whatever the weather and there's a good cafe serving locally sourced food.
Riber Castle
John Smedley built this Gothic mansion in 1862 as his private residence overlooking Matlock. While the castle itself is closed to the public the walk up to it offers some of the best views in Derbyshire. The building dominates the skyline and makes a dramatic backdrop for photos.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Heights of Abraham | Cable car rides and underground cavern tours with stunning valley views | Everyone |
| Gulliver's Kingdom | Age-appropriate theme park rides and attractions built into the hillside | Families |
| Cromford Mill | Industrial heritage site showing the birthplace of the factory system | Everyone |
| Matlock Farm Park | Hands-on farm experiences with rare breed animals and activities | Families |
| Riber Castle | Hilltop walks with panoramic views and Gothic architecture | Couples |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Matlock?
Matlock has a railway station with direct trains from Derby and Nottingham. By car take the A6 from Derby or the A615 from Sheffield. The town sits about 30 minutes from Junction 28 of the M1.
What family activities are available?
Gulliver's Kingdom and Matlock Farm Park top the list for families. The Heights of Abraham cable car excites kids of all ages. You can also try the Aquarium in Matlock Bath or walk the easy trails along the Derwent Valley.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Walk up to Riber Castle at sunset for incredible views. The riverside paths through Matlock Bath offer peaceful strolls. Book a table at one of the restaurants overlooking the gorge then head back to your private hot tub.
Is there good shopping in Matlock?
The town centre has independent shops selling local crafts and antiques. Bakewell is 20 minutes away for more boutique shopping. Chesterfield offers larger retail options within a 30-minute drive.
Why choose a hot tub cottage here?
After walking the Peak District trails or exploring attractions all day your muscles will thank you for that hot tub soak. The area has excellent dog friendly and pet friendly cottages too so you can bring the whole family.
Cottages with hot tubs in Matlock give you the best of both worlds. Spend your days discovering everything from show caves to historic mills then retreat to your own space. Whether you're booking last minute deals or planning group cottages for a special celebration the combination of Peak District beauty and private luxury makes perfect sense.
You'll find everything from boutique cottages and log cabin retreats to large holiday houses with swimming pool facilities. Many places to stay welcome dogs and offer secluded or isolated settings for proper relaxation. Book your cottage breaks here and you get easy access to the Peak District with the comfort of self catering accommodation and your own jacuzzi waiting.