DISCLOSURE – THIS EXPERIENCE WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST/S FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW.

Reviewed by Julie Hayward

I have wanted to visit the Heights of Abraham in Derbyshire for a very long time. When my children were younger, we would often go to a nearby children’s theme park, I would see glimpses of the cable cars. I would imagine how relaxing and peaceful it would be, to be able to enjoy those views. So today I got the opportunity to visit with my husband. Life has been quite hectic lately, so this was a perfect way to slow down and enjoy each other’s company, in beautiful surroundings.

We arrived in Matlock Bath and parked at the Train Station car park, which is the nearest to the attraction. If you were able to travel by train, you can get a discounted entrance price. It is a short pedestrian walk to the entrance, if you have booked online just give them the reference number to receive your tickets. It’s important to keep hold of the tickets as they are needed to gain entrance to the caves.

There was no queue, and we were assisted on to the Cable Car by the friendly operators, who advised us to expect a brief pause during the ascent.

We sat facing each other, in our own carriage. The capacity is six per car, but probably more comfortable for four. It reminded me of being in the Alps, the doors closed securely, and we were away. The large windows, both front and rear enhanced the panoramic view, which was more spectacular the higher we went.

As pre warned it momentarily slowed and stopped which gave us a perfect photo opportunity. The cars passing us on the downward journey appeared to be going faster, however I think this must be an optical illusion as the 12 gondolas are on a fixed continuous loop. I’d say the journey takes about 5 minutes to reach the summit and the operator is waiting to assist you to disembark, should you need it.

We headed straight for lunch in the Vista Restaurant, which is on the upper floor and accessed via the gift shop, on the same level as the Terrace café, which was a perfect spot for a pot of tea later in the afternoon, where we sat out on the terrace and again enjoyed the view.

As it was a hot day, we asked for a table outside and enjoyed a drink from the bar. The menu was well priced and looking at the other diner’s food, it offered restaurant quality. The service and food were exceptional; I would happily pay the annual membership fee to be able to eat here on a regular basis.

We then headed to The Great Masson Cave tour, which in hindsight may have been better to visit prior to our indulgent meal, as you must be fit enough to manage the many steps. Our tour guide made the event fun and interesting, he was very informative about how the caves were formed and their uses over the years. The tours run throughout the day and include a light show.

Once out of the caves you follow the path on a picturesque downward walk back to the main area, where there are two children’s play parks and picnic areas, an Amphitheatre where events take place, and an ice cream booth.

I do think this is a place for all the family; there is plenty to do. For example, live music sessions, and visits from the Wombles Characters. It is also dog friendly, except in the caves.

I probably should have previously visited with my children, and I will make sure that I do visit in the future with my grandchildren, but it really was a perfect destination to enjoy our ‘date’.

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost from £18 per child, £26.50 per adult. The Heights of Abraham are open daily from 28th March to 11th November. To purchase tickets visit www.heightsofabraham.com or call 01629 582365.

The Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath, DE4 3NT

Meet & Greet from the Wombles Characters, tying in with this season’s brand-new exhibition
‘WOMBLE MANIA!’ which launches on 18^th July
for more information see below….

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