The History of Matlock

A former spa town, Matlock is situated on the River Derwent and is one of the larger market towns in county. Before the Victorian era the town was a group of small villages centring on the Parish Church of St Giles, up above the house on a limestone outcrop. The origin of the name Matlock refers to a place for assembly and oak – an oak tree where meetings were held. The town is sometimes referred to as ‘the Matlocks’. This is a reference to Matlock and Matlock Bath. The two have been favourite holiday locations since the Victorian years. Matlock Bath is referred to in Jane Austen’s novel Pride and Prejudice and the Peak District has provided the location for this film and many others.

The Victorians brought wealth and prosperity to the town and surrounding area. The town owes much of its status to John Smedley. He built the imposing Smedley’s Hydro (now County Hall) and Riber Castle, the imposing, mock medieval castle overlooking the town. Historically the surrounding areas were also rich in mills, producing many goods for distribution across the country. Cromford, just a short distance from Matlock was a key sight in the start of the industrial revolution and you can learn more about this in the Mill’s exhibition. The history of the area has contributed to the variety and diversity of what Matlock offers today. We look forward to welcoming you to enjoy the surroundings.

Matlock for visitors

Matlock is the county town of Derbyshire. It is small enough to be welcoming but large enough to offer a variety shops, restaurants and bars. It also has a wonderful park, Hall Leys, which is in the centre of the town and gives a sense of space, openness and nature. Glendon is located on one side of the park. It is a great base to explore the attractions of Derbyshire and Peak District and has great transport links with train station and buses serving much of the county. Matlock provides the perfect gateway to the surrounding countryside and varied rural history.

Antique shops

Dale Road , Matlock is a short walk form Glendon. It has a variety of antique and vintage shops, including Matlock Antiques and Collectables. If you enjoy exploring and looking for your next find, this is road for you.

Matlock has a range of independent shops. From wonderful furniture choices at Indigo to The French Wine People and Bow Boutique offering a range of home goods, including some delightful furniture items. And when strolling around Matlock be sure to look out for Robert Young florists who always have such delightful window displays.

Lunch and afternoon tea

There are many lovely places for lunch in Matlock, all just a short stroll from Glendon. The Green Way café offers a wonderful array of vegetarian dishes. There is also the Cool River Café, which is good for lunch. A more recent addition to the café scene is Zinc, which serves lovely cakes, has a small inviting garden at the back and also stocks a range of cards and gifts.

Many of the antique and vintage shops on Dale Road also have cafes. And when the sun is shining Hall Leys park, is a lovely spot for an outdoor picnic. Pop across the road to Mrs Tiggy Winkles to grab a sandwich or other lunch goodies and then enjoy the wonderful park.

Eating and Drinking

There are a good range of bars and restaurants in Matlock, including Thai, Indian, Italian, traditional, tapas and fine dining. The list below are all within a few minutes walk from Glendon:

For drinks there are a good range of options on Dale Road. From the traditional surroundings of the Remarkable Hare and Moca, who both offer a good range of drinks, including local ales to Monk wine bar, that serves cocktails and has a more modern ambience.

Many of the bars also have live music at weekends, offering the opportunity to enjoy local artists and bands. Details are usually listed on the individual websites.

Walking and exploring

There are varied walks directly for our door, exploring the tors and pathways around Matlock and Matlock Bath. There is also easy access to the Limestone Way, as it passes through the Derbyshire Dales. Cromford, the historic sight of the Industrial Revolution, offers some wonderful walking as well as fascinating history.

More wonderful gems cam be found in Matlock’s historic houses. Amongst them you’ll find Chatsworth house, Haddon Hall, Hardwick Hall, Tissington Hall. A little further away is Kedleston Hall and Calke Abbey. Each offers a fascinating insight into the social and Cultural history of Derbyshire.

To explore Matlock in comfort, choose Glendon House. Stylish accommodation within easy walking distance of Matlock’s centre.

Damien Fitzgerald, Glendon House