The best walks and hikes around Matlock Town

FAQs about hikes in Matlock Town

• What are the best scenic spots or viewpoints in Matlock Town?
  For breathtaking views, head to the limestone crags of High Tor and the slopes of Masson Hill, offering expansive panoramas of the surrounding area, including Matlock Bath. Stanton Moor also provides excellent vistas of the Derwent Valley and distant hills.


• Are there easy hiking trails suitable for families in Matlock Town?
  Absolutely! Matlock Town offers many easy hiking options perfect for families. Among them, the Lovers Walk & High Tor loop from Matlock Bath is an excellent choice for a gentle outing, covering 5.85 km in about 01:41.


• Can I find challenging hikes in Matlock Town for experienced hikers?
  Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous adventure, Matlock Town has challenging routes available. A notable option is the Matlock Bath, Winster & Oaker Hill loop from Matlock — Peak District National Park, a demanding 18.0 km hike that typically takes around 05:20.


• What historical sites or points of interest can I see while hiking in Matlock Town?
  Matlock Town is rich in history. You can explore Arkwright’s Mill, a significant site of the Industrial Revolution in nearby Cromford. Additionally, the ancient Stanton Moor features intriguing Neolithic stone circles and megaliths, offering a glimpse into the region's past.


• Are the hiking trails in Matlock Town dog-friendly?
  Many trails in and around Matlock Town, especially those within the wider Peak District, are welcoming to dogs. It's always a good idea to keep your dog on a leash, especially near livestock or in busier areas, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.


• What kind of natural features or wildlife might I encounter in Matlock Town?
  You can expect to see diverse natural beauty, including tranquil woodlands like Upper Lumsdale and Oxhay Wood, vibrant spring displays of bluebells and wild daffodils, and various waterfalls and brooks. Keep an eye out for woodpeckers and spotted flycatchers, and possibly even royal purple orchids in summer on the moorlands.


• When is the best time of year to go hiking in Matlock Town?
  Spring is ideal for enjoying lush greenery, bluebells, and wild daffodils, while summer offers the chance to see royal purple orchids on the moorlands. Matlock Town's diverse landscape means hiking is enjoyable throughout the year, with each season offering its unique charm.


• What is the typical terrain like on hikes around Matlock Town?
  The terrain varies from easily accessible paths in valleys and woodlands to more rugged and challenging sections on limestone crags and moorland, especially as you venture towards the Peak District boundary. Expect a mix of paved, unpaved, gravel, and natural surfaces.


• Where can I find food and drink after a hike in Matlock Town?
  Matlock Town and its neighboring villages, like Matlock Bath and Cromford, offer a variety of charming local establishments. You'll find inviting cafes, tea rooms, and cozy pubs where you can relax and refuel after your hike.


• Are there any specific routes that are highly rated by the Komoot community?
  The High Tor & Matlock Bath loop from Matlock is a highly regarded route among the Komoot community. Overall, the hiking trails in Matlock Town receive excellent feedback, with an average rating of 4.5 stars.

Limestone splendour and ancient woodland

Dominating the town are the limestone crags of High Tor and the gentler slopes of Masson Hill. Both are well worth a ramble and reward you with lovely views back over the neighbouring village of Matlock Bath. Steep zigzags lead you up Masson Hill to the park that adorns its summit. A popular objective, there’s even a cable car that goes up from the town.

Some of the more serene walks around Matlock explore local woodland, such as Upper Lumsdale, Lea Wood and Oxhay Wood. Picture springtime strolls with the sound of the River Derwent in your ears and a carpet of bluebells and wild daffodils under your boots. Waterfalls, stone ruins, water wheels and tranquil brooks are just some of the sights waiting to be discovered, whilst woodpeckers and spotted flycatchers will delight bird-lovers.

History, mystery and industry

The region is famed for its involvement in the birth of the Industrial Revolution. One of its origins, Arkwright’s Mill, can be found in the village of Cromford, with its attractive market square, canal and picturesque cottages. An amble along the canalside paths enables you imbibe the rich history of the landscape.

Nearby moorland makes for some splendid hikes around Matlock. For a sense of ancient history, explore the richly atmospheric landscape of Stanton Moor. High, remote and with excellent views of the Derwent Valley and the hills beyond, the moor is home to various Neolithic stone circles and megaliths. Experience the magic of summer rambling amongst acres of royal purple orchids, whilst natural, wind-eroded pillars of sandstone mysteriously rise from the moorland.

The magical dales of the Peak District

Many of the best hiking trails around Matlock are just a stone’s throw away in the exquisite countryside of the Peak District. Follow the Derwent north to the famously sculpted grounds of Chatsworth House or even further for the magnificent gritstone edges of the Dark Peak.

For quintessential Peak District landscapes, the verdant gorges and dramatic limestone crags of the Wye Valley are well worth exploring. Secluded dales, lush woodland and tumbling brooks create an almost Tolkienesque landscape. Some of the finest scenery in Britain is there for the taking.