Matlock Bath Accessible Trail
A 1¼ mile Accessible Sensory Trail has been created to bring the Matlock Bath experience to all.
From the Railway Station car park, go over the bridge.
Immediately after the Midland Hotel, enter the Memorial Gardens containing the War Memorial and exhibition about village life during World War 1. Public toilets are also here.
Proceed through the Gardens, following the riverside path to Jubilee Bridge.
Cross the bridge and join ‘Lovers’ Walk’: the oldest public park in the world! To the left is a quiet area by the bandstand, with the main route leading to the right.
To the left of this path are a flight of stone steps known as Birdcage Walk. The wheelchair accessible route follows the river past the play area. As you walk, look across the River Derwent to the Cascade of thermal water.
Continue along the path, taking in the sights, sounds, textures and smells, until you reach the second bridge.
Cross the bridge and enter Derwent Gardens. To the left are the Water Gardens featuring the thermal spring water which comes from below ground at 20 degrees Celsius. There is also a children’s play area, seating and picnic tables.
Having enjoyed the Water Gardens, re-join the route that follows the river back to Matlock Bath Grand Pavilion, passing the bandstand, fountain and pond which contains large Koi Carp. The grotto close to the fountain pond is built with Tufa, a stone formed by deposits from the water of Matlock Bath. A variety of events are held in this part of the Gardens throughout the year including the Illuminations.
As you head towards the Grand Pavilion, you will pass the boat landing, where you can hire a rowing boat or enjoy a wheelchair accessible pleasure boat ride during the summer months.
Passing the Grand Pavilion, which houses a museum and tourist information, you will find the Fishpond where Koi Carp can be seen.
Cross the road to enjoy the unique feel of the many shops, cafes, chip shops. ice cream parlours and amusements of the village on South and North Parade. It is also well known for the many motorbikes which visit here. Alternatively, keep to the quieter riverside pavement and make your way to the Station car park this way to complete the trail.
