Matlock was probably the largest spa town in Derbyshire, its first thermal spring being discovered in 1698. In the 19th century the town expanded rapidly to cater for the hordes of visitors, and it is said that there were up to 30 hydros in its heyday.

A unique cable tramway was constructed in 1893 to accommodate the many visitors, turning Matlock into the San Francisco of the Peak District. With a gradient of 1 in 5 ½, it was the steepest in the world and charged 2d up and 1d down. The tramway closed in 1927 when cars and buses became more popular, but the former tram shelter and clock tower can still be found in Hall Leys Park – an extensive riverside pleasure ground right in the centre of town.

The spa town boom ended in the early 20th century, with most of the hydros being converted into residential use or as offices. Visitors to the town now prefer to stay in more modest accommodation such as holiday cottages in Matlock

There are holiday cottages in Matlock itself, or its suburbs and surrounding countryside. Should you wish your holiday cottage in Matlock to be in a rural location but only a short drive from the town, then either the Darwin Lake or Darwin Forest Country Park complexes offer the holiday cottages in Matlock for you.

Derwent View is a holiday cottage in Matlock Bath which is a suburb of ‘The Matlocks’, other parts of the town include Matlock Bank, Matlock Bridge and Old Matlock Town.

If you would like the ultimate experience, staying at a 5-star ‘Gold Award’ holiday cottage in Matlock, which is located on the hilltops overlooking the town, then click on Blakelow Farm Holiday Cottages in Matlock for further details.

However, there are several holiday cottages in Matlock from which to choose which offer comfortable accommodation for the more limited budget.

Matlock can offer leisure facilities, shops, restaurants and walks, but is also an ideal base from which to explore the Peak District and its many attractions.

To find the most appropriate holiday cottage in Matlock for your stay, please browse through the entries below.