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Time out: Travel to Gulliver’s
by Joanne Grenfell
Where? Matlock Bath, a village south of Matlock, in Derbyshire, gained popularity in the 18th century, when its warm springs made it a gathering place for aristocrats. Now it is best known for its amusement arcades, souvenir shops, and an aquarium, as well as Gulliver’s theme park and the Heights of Abraham. Why? Lord Byron loved its alpine feel, which has earned it the nickname “Little Switzerland”. Garish amusements sit alongside heritage buildings and stunning National Park countryside. Getting there Matlock Bath is situated on the A6, about 18 miles north of Derby. Trains run between Matlock Bath and Derby on the Derwent Valley Line. What to see Attractions include the Peak District Mining Museum, and Sir Richard Arkwright’s Masson Mills Working Textile Museum. If you have children, Gulliver’s is a must. Set on a steep hill, with a chair-lift linking the different themed sections, it offers dodgems, rollercoasters, and train rides. The Heights of Abraham, the oldest attraction in the Peak District, offers cable-car rides with spectacular scenery, caverns, and a hilltop park. Near by All of the Peak District countryside, Chatsworth historic house and estate, Bakewell, Buxton, Eyam, and the Hope Valley. Amenities Endless youth hostels, farm accommodation, and exclusive hotels for a longer stay. There is a range of pubs and cafés, and, at weekends and bank holidays, you can join the motorcyclists pausing on their pilgrimage along the A57 Snake Pass route to eat fish and chips in the shadow of the hills. For chicken nuggets and chips, go to Gulliver’s. At the Heights of Abraham, the Hi Café and Summit Bar provide all the usual day-tripper refreshments. For real gourmet food, especially if you are travelling without small children, the Devonshire Arms at Beeley, on the edge of the Chatsworth Estate, serves gourmet food and real ales. Child friendly? It doesn’t get any better than this. From the faded charm of Gulliver’s, to the twists and turns of the Heights of Abraham caverns, there is everything to stimulate the imagination. Disabled access Owing to the steep hillsides at Gulliver’s and the Heights of Abraham, access for wheelchair users or the partially sighted would be difficult. The Heights of Abraham website has realistic advice about what is possible and what is not.www.derbyshireuk.net/matlock.html |
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