Chesterfield and District CAMRA

Matlock, the county town of Derbyshire, was originally a series of hamlets alongside and up the steep hills fromthe River Derwent. The Matlocks, (Bank, Green, Town and Bath) developed as a place to 'take the waters', favoured by the the likes of Byron and Ruskin. The largest of these hydros is now the County Hall on Smedley St which is the headquarters of Derbyshire County Council.

Matlock was once famed for the quality of its limestone and the disused quarries can be seen from the high vantage points overlooking the dale. Sitting just outside the Peak National Park is has been the stepping stone for visitors from the south.

Set in a deep gorge to the south is the township of Matlock Bath which has attracted tourists for many years with its wide ranging attractions, riverside walks, boating, cable cars, museums and tours of the old lead mines whilst the Promenade attracts bikers in the hundreds over a weekend.

Many scenic views can be enjoyed of the Matlocks and the Derwent gorge from the old coaching road through Starkholmes.