Living in Matlock

Community spirit runs deep in Matlock, with a welcoming atmosphere and a calendar filled with local events. Residents enjoy access to green spaces such as Hall Leys Park in the heart of the town, which features gardens, a boating lake, and play areas. The Matlock Bath Illuminations and the weekly farmers' market bring the community together and attract visitors from across the region.

The town benefits from a number of community centres and local societies dedicated to music, the arts, and volunteer work, with regular exhibitions and performances staged at venues such as the Imperial Rooms. Outdoor life is central to the area, with ample opportunities for walking along the Derwent Valley, cycling the local trails, and exploring the nearby Peak District countryside.

Safety in Matlock is generally perceived as positive by residents, with relatively low levels of violent crime compared to larger urban centres in Derbyshire. Anti-social behaviour and petty theft occasionally occur, particularly in the busier tourist months, but overall the crime rate is below the UK national average for similar market towns.

The presence of community support officers and local neighbourhood policing units helps maintain a safe atmosphere. Ongoing community safety initiatives include Neighbourhood Watch groups and voluntary patrols, and the local council works closely with Derbyshire Constabulary to address concerns proactively. Areas with higher footfall, such as the town centre and Matlock Bath, see increased police presence during major events and busier periods.

Parking in Matlock is accessible, with several council-run car parks throughout the town centre as well as limited on-street parking options. Resident and visitor permits are available in specific areas. The town does experience busy periods—especially weekends and during events—which can make parking in Matlock Bath more challenging.

Matlock is conveniently situated on the A6, a major route running between Derby and Buxton, making road access straightforward to much of Derbyshire and the Peak District. Traffic tends to be manageable, though seasonal fluctuations are expected due to tourist visits. Road improvements in recent years have eased congestion, particularly near the town centre.

• Chesterfield – approx. 25 minutes via A632 (14 miles)
• Derby – approx. 35 minutes via A6 (19 miles)
• Buxton – approx. 40 minutes via A6 (21 miles)
• Nottingham – approx. 1 hour via A6 and A610 (29 miles)

Matlock offers a diverse range of eating and drinking establishments for residents and visitors. The town centre is lined with independent cafes, tea rooms, and family-run restaurants, featuring both traditional British and international cuisine.

Popular venues include The Remarkable Hare for classic pub fare and local ales, and Stones Restaurant, which is known for its contemporary fine dining overlooking the river. Matlock Bath, just south of the main town, is famous for its lively chip shops, sweet shops, and riverside arcades, giving it a more bustling atmosphere especially at weekends and during the Illuminations season.

For nightlife, Matlock lends itself to a relaxed social scene focused on traditional pubs and occasional live music venues, rather than late-night clubs. Annual community events and food festivals complement the local hospitality offering, making Matlock appealing for food lovers and those seeking a sociable evening out in friendly surroundings.

School Quality: Matlock’s primary and secondary schools enjoy strong Ofsted ratings and supportive communities, ensuring a robust educational environment for children of all ages.

Parks and Green Space: Hall Leys Park, nearby countryside, and riverside trails make Matlock an excellent choice for families who appreciate outdoor recreation and safe, well-maintained play areas.

Childcare: The area offers a range of nurseries and registered childminders, with several afterschool and holiday clubs operating in partnership with primary schools and local churches.

Safety: Residents benefit from low crime rates and visible community policing, contributing to Matlock’s reputation as a safe place to raise a family.

Family Activities: Families can enjoy swimming at the Arc Leisure Centre, events at the Derbyshire County Showground, or explore nearby attractions such as Gulliver’s Kingdom or Heights of Abraham.

Matlock is highly regarded for pet-friendly living, with numerous walking routes including riverside paths, woodland trails, and nearby countryside suited to active dogs and their owners. Hall Leys Park and the Derwent Meadows provide open spaces for daily exercise.

The presence of several local veterinary surgeries, dog grooming salons, and pet supply stores makes caring for pets easy. Many local pubs and cafes welcome dogs, and there’s a positive attitude towards animals both in public spaces and rented accommodation. Access to the wider Peak District further cements Matlock’s position as a base for pet lovers looking to enjoy the outdoors with their four-legged companions.

Matlock is well connected for a rural market town. The town’s railway station links directly to Derby and Nottingham, making it viable for commuters. The station serves as a terminus for trains that follow the scenic Derwent Valley Line.

Regular bus services link Matlock to Bakewell, Chesterfield, Buxton, and Ashbourne, ideal for those who prefer bus travel or need to reach areas not directly served by rail. Cycle routes and walking paths highlight the town’s appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.

• Derby – approx. 35 minutes by train, direct service from Matlock station
• Nottingham – around 1 hour by train, changing at Derby
• Sheffield – about 1 hour by car via the A6/A615 and A61, or by bus via Chesterfield
• Manchester – approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car

East Midlands Airport is the closest major airport, situated around 45 minutes by car, offering flights to domestic and European destinations. The town’s pedestrian infrastructure is good, and traffic congestion within the town centre is comparatively light outside peak tourism months.

Matlock supports a strong local education system, welcoming families with children of all ages. The town is served by several well-regarded primary schools, secondary schools, and access to colleges in the wider Derbyshire region.

Primary Schools:

St Giles Church of England Primary School is centrally located and has earned a 'Good' Ofsted rating (2023), known for its supportive staff and spacious grounds. All Saints CE Junior School also stands out for its community involvement and consistent Ofsted praise. Additionally, Castle View Primary School is appreciated for its inclusive ethos.

Secondary Schools:

Highfields School is the principal secondary serving Matlock and surrounding villages. This mixed comprehensive has a 'Good' Ofsted rating (2023) and operates on two sites, providing a broad academic curriculum and strong extracurricular programmes, including music and sports.

Sixth Forms & Colleges:

Highfields School provides sixth form education, enabling students in Matlock to continue their studies locally. For further options, students commonly travel to Chesterfield College or Derby College, both accessible by public transport.

Universities:

There is no university in Matlock itself, but the University of Derby is within reasonable commuting distance and offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Students seeking specialist or research-led degrees most often commute or relocate to Derby, Nottingham, or Sheffield.