Favourite walks from Matlock

The Lumsdale Valley, a local walk from Matlock and a hidden treasure.

Situated on the edge of Matlock town you will find a secret valley which is home to one of Britain’s best water-powered industrial archaeological sites. Now owned by the Arkwright Society, the Valley is a UNESCO world Heritage Site and scheduled as an ancient monument by Historic England. Since 2014 it has also been designated a nature reserve.

The valley is a series of ponds and mills of which there is evidence of one for grinding corn and one for processing cloth and even one for bone. It really is one of the sites that changed the world through the industrial revolution.  There are also a series of waterfalls fed by Bentley Brook which runs between them. Guided walks of Lumsdale valley take place throughout the year along with other activities and events both here and on the other sites of Derwent Valley Mills.

The route down the valley is steep in places, with steps and some sharp drops to the sides, keeping to the paths is advised. In wet weather it can also be slippy so do take care when walking down the valley. It is really though worth a visit. As well as being rich in heritage, it is a great place for photography. The valley is walkable from Glendon or a short drive away and is one of our favourite local walks.