|
Matlock is the nearest town. It has a population of
around 13,000, an administrative centre, and is an excellent base for
exploring the surrounding area.
About a mile to the south, along the River Derwent lies Matlock’s
tourist centre - Matlock Bath. Visitors have been coming here since
Regency times. It is still sometimes known as the "English
Switzerland", probably because of its position at the bottom of
Matlock Dale – a dramatic limestone gorge.
The 350-foot High Tor has a vertical rock face, providing one of the most
severe rock climbs in Britain - though most people walk up.
Across the Gorge, the going is easier. A cable car goes to the top of what
are called the Heights of Abraham. At the summit, there are fine views
along the Derwent Valley. There are play areas for the children, and you
can visit large natural underground caverns, which were originally
discovered as a result of lead mining.
This area is criss-crossed with woodland trails, but many of the paths are
so steep - firm shoes are essential.
For most people the combination of the river and the deep Gorge are a
major reason for visiting Matlock Bath - but for Children Gulliver's
Kingdom theme park is the big attraction.
AQUARIUM
- Matlock
Bath - 110 North Parade, Matlock Bath, Derbyshire. Tel: 01629 583624.
The Matlock Bath Aquarium is occupying the buildings of the once famous
Matlock Bath Hydro. Opened in 1883 to take its place alongside the already
famous New Bath and Royal Hotel thermal hydropathic spas. The Matlock Bath
Hydro replaced the Fountain Bath which was build in 1786 and demolished in
1881 because of its size; the pool being only about half the size of the
existing one with a uniform depth of only four feet. The Fountain Bath was
unable to cope with the increasing popularity for thermal water treatment,
so it was then that a new and much larger Hydro was planned, offering
facilities hitherto unheard of, under the supervision of a Resident
Physician. A visitor could receive treatment for Rheumatism, Gout,
Lumbago, Sciatica, Neurasthenia, Neuritis, Weak Nerves, Kidney Complaints
and digestive Disorders, there were several private bathrooms where the
visitor could take a bath at the medically prescribed temperature, or a
dip in the pool, which is fed continuously from the Thermal spring at
600,000 gallons a day. Still to be seen is the drinking fountain at the
top of the stairs on the left, which provided a continuous flow of thermal
water for patients to drink as freely as may be advised for such disorders
as indigestion, Dyspepsia or Kidney complaints. The cost: Full Board and
Residence with Apa and Hydro Treatments was from E4 4s weekly, Full Board
and Residence for relatives or friends of patients, from E3 3s weekly.
Today a few changes have taken place, where there
were once bathrooms and consulting rooms, is our tropical section. Because
of its dangerous condition, the roof over the pool has been removed and
only a small portion of the observation platform remains. As in years gone
by, the pool is still fed from the same thermal spring at a continuous
600,000 gallons a day at a constant temperature of 20 degrees centigrade
only now enjoying its health giving properties, are a collection of Large
Mirror Carp, (up to 301b in weight) Higoi Carp, Golden Orfe, Green and
Golden Tench, assorted goldfish and Koi Carp.
Your visit should be enjoyable and educational,
particularly our collection of native marine life, which allows you a
glimpse of that hidden realm just beyond our own shores.
Very little has changed, for today people from all over the country and
indeed the world, still visit Matlock Bath. Although no longer to take the
waters, but to admire its scenic beauty which is not easily matched.
Attractions include: The large open thermal pool,
over 40 Aquarium containing species of British and tropical freshwater
fish. (Visitors may feed the fish with food obtained on the premises.) The
pool by night illuminated at dusk by powerful underwater floodlights.
Temple
Mine - Matlock Bath
The mine was
acquired by the Peak district Mines Historical Society by the Derbyshire
custom in 'nicking'.
It has been worked since 1922 for fluorite and lead and shows goods
examples of mining technology.
Guides who describe the geology, the history and the mining methods
conduct parties round the mine.
The geology and mining are interesting and more stress can be put on
whichever aspect students require.The mine can be visited to
complement the educational services of the Peak District Mining Museum or
on its own for the experience of an underground visit.
Open Easter to October -Temple Road off the A6.
|
