Things to do near Derby: Visit the Heights of Abraham for a day out to remember

It’s been a bit of a tough start to spring, with cold weather and seemingly constant rain.

But the Gods were shining down on Derbyshire this weekend, for the 50th anniversary of the Heights of Abraham.

For those, who aren’t familiar, the Heights of Abraham is a popular attraction in the heart of the Derbyshire Dales.

Located in the pretty ‘landlocked seaside’ town of Matlock Bath, the attraction draws in thousands of tourists every year.

Go beyond just reading the story - sign up for the DerbyWorld newsletter

And after experiencing the heights first-hand this weekend, I can understand why.

Even entering the car park we knew this would be a popular destination, after doing a full lap to find a space.

The good news is, that The Heights of Abraham has just revealed a new 20% discount scheme for people who visit via train.

Just hop off the train at Matlock Bath and walk along the river (for about 3 minutes) to the foot of the cable cars.

You can purchase a discounted ticket by clicking here.

Journey into the clouds

Our adventure started by taking a cable car ride up to the top of the Peak and over the stunning sights of the Derwent Valley.

The Derwent Valley is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in the East Midlands and is even more beautiful from above.

The five-minute journey sees you soar through the air, over the River Derwent.

We spotted people walking along the river bank, toy-sized cars rumbling along the road, and heard birds chirping in the trees next to us.

When we reached the summit, we hopped out of our cable car (more gracefully than when we got into it) and started to explore the magic of the heights.

The estate has been in the possession of the Pugh family for 50 years. Musicians, actors, and dancers performed throughout the day to celebrate the Golden Anniversary.

Almost immediately as we stepped out of the car and up the hill, we were greeted by an actress in regency dress, who was aghast at my naked ankles, commenting I must be a “wild one” (not wrong!)

Things to do and see

There’s a variety of cool things to see and do once you reach the heights, from cave tours to turrets. And the best part of all is that it’s completely dog-friendly!

During our day out at the Heights we saw many sweet pups, including several sausage dogs and a tiny little baby pug.

If you’re feeling nimble (and full of puff), you can trot up the hill to Tinker’s Mine Shaft an incredible viewpoint, worthy of an Instagram feed.

Perhaps the most astonishing feature is The Great Masson Cavern. You can take guided tours around the 350-million-year-old caves and explore their unique geology.

This does come with a warning though, the caves are dark, tight, and small, if, like me, you suffer from claustrophobia heed the warnings of guides.

If kicking back with a cup of tea is more your speed (let’s be friends), the Heights has some amazing dining options, that come with a view.

The Vista Restaurant and Bar has an amazing outdoor terrace with views overlooking the valley, downstairs there is also a coffee shop with further outside seating.

In addition to caves and cakes, the Heights also boasts several cool and interesting exhibitions.

Fashionistas should make a beeline for Masson Pavilion, for the ‘Mirror of the Past’ exhibition, showcasing replica costumes from the 1700s, 1800s, and 1900s.

After that hop on over to the High Falls Theatre where you can take a virtual tour through the Great Masson Cavern and find out more about the cable car’s 40-year history.

Outside of this, there is also plenty for the little ones to explore, with playground equipment, boasting slides, towers, climbing ropes, and more.

Thespians will enjoy a trip to the Amphitheater which provides spectacular views over the valley.

Itching to go higher? Climb to the top of Victoria Prospect Tower, built in 1844, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding Derbyshire countryside.

After you’ve explored all The Heights has to offer (and there is a lot), hop on the cable car for a journey back down the mountain.

You can take in even more of the stunning surrounding scenery without breaking a sweat.

Many fun events are taking place at The Heights of Abraham this year, including a Victorian Weekend, Big Music Weekend, and a Lights of Abraham Christmas tour that’s new for 2024.

Find out more and book tickets online by clicking here.