Heights of Abraham
Hilltop Adventure & Heritage in the Peak District
Located just outside Two Dales near Matlock, the Heights of Abraham is a hill-top 60-acre estate in the Peak District, accessed via a scenic cable car ride above the Derwent Valley. This historic site combines dramatic views, ancient caverns and woodland trails for a memorable day out.
What to Expect
- Experience the cable car ride: Raise yourself from the valley floor up to the hill-top summit in cabins crossing over river, rail and road — with panoramic views of the Derbyshire countryside.
- Explore the show caverns: Two guided tours through the Great Masson and Great Rutland caverns take you into the depths of former lead mines and underground formations.
- Classic heritage & exploration: Wooded pathways, Victorian tower (Victoria Prospect), viewing platforms, exhibitions telling the 230+ year story of the estate.
- Family adventure space: On the hill-top there are adventure playgrounds, picnic lawns and wide-open vistas — suitable for families, friends or groups wanting something more than just a walk.
Why Stay at Darwin Lakes Works for Visiting
When staying at Darwin Lake Holiday Village, the Heights of Abraham makes an ideal day-trip:
- The drive is short, making it easy to combine your lakeside cottage stay with a full hill-top outing.
- The mix of heritage, views and trails complements our holiday village surroundings — you’ll experience high vantage points and countryside in one.
- It’s a flexible option for families, mixed-age groups or couples: from the thrill of the cable car to relaxing on top of the hill.
Practical Information & Tips
- Tickets & booking: Advance booking for the cable car and hill-top admission is recommended, especially in peak seasons.
- What to bring: Good walking shoes advised (some uneven surfaces and paths on the effect of height). Weather at the top can be windier so a jacket is sensible.
- Timing: Most visitors spend between 2–4 hours on the hill-top exploring; you may plan a morning or afternoon visit.
- Facilities & access: Lower station at Matlock Bath; nearest car parks are pay-and-display in Matlock Bath village. Dogs welcome on cable cars but not in caverns — check details.
- Combine with other activities: Consider pairing with a riverside stroll in Matlock Bath or another nearby attraction like glaciers or walks in the valley.
Ready to Visit?
Plan your visit to the Heights of Abraham and add a spectacular hill-top experience to your stay at Darwin Lakes.