The UK is home to several seaside resort and a visitor explored one town with all the usual bells and whistles, but it has one big difference compared to the likes of Brighton and Blackpool
For many in the UK, childhood summers meant trips to seaside towns, and today, families often return with their children to recreate those memories. These towns charm visitors with their laid-back atmosphere, pretty streets, amusement parks, traditional fish and chips, and of course, the beaches.
Famous resorts like Brighton, Whitby, Blackpool, Margate, and Bournemouth remain firm favourites, drawing crowds each summer. However, there are also lesser-known spots waiting to be discovered. One such gem is Matlock Bath in Derbyshire, a unique destination that captures the spirit of a seaside town, despite sitting in the heart of the Peak District, far from the coast.
It offers all the hallmarks of a traditional seaside town, from fish and chip shops and arcades to ice cream parlours, but instead of the coast, it sits in a river valley.
A local, known on social media as Gabs Life, shared a video on TikTok offering her 233,000 followers a peek at Matlock Bath.
Speaking in the video, she said: “If you’re looking for a gorgeous day out in the UK, Matlock Bath is definitely the place to go.
“This little town in England is centrally located and is a great mid-point for day trips or weekend getaways.”
The TikToker described it as a “beautiful, picturesque seaside town that is not actually near the sea.”
Gabs Life highlighted that Matlock Bath has “cute, little shops” and scenic walks.
She included a clip of people taking a stroll by the River Derwent, sharing that this is part of Lovers’ Walks, a series of footpaths along the riverside and up and over the cliffs.
The seaside town fan added: “It’s just a really charming, chill place to explore, grab some food and slow down for a little bit. Matlock Bath is a hidden gem that you didn’t know you needed.”
The TikTok post has racked up thousands of views and more than 70 comments. Fellow users on the platform were captivated by the appeal of the Derbyshire destination.
One commented: “Feels like being at the seaside there!!” Another wrote: “It’s nice and all shops and cafes [are] fair priced surprisingly.”
A third piped up: “One of three of my favourite places for a day out from Manchester. Matlock, Bakewell and Buxton…All absolutely beautiful.”
Someone else noted: “Very good there always.” Others expressed their enthusiasm with remarks such as “how cute”, “I love it here”, “love Matlock Bath” and “next on my list.”
A different user offered advice for visitors: “Tip for you all as parking is horrendous. Park in Matlock at the train station.. catch a train into Matlock Bath. Cheap fare and much easier. Matlock born and bred.”
Matlock is a market town that sits alongside Matlock Bath and according to Trainline, prices for this journey begin from £1.40 when you book in advance.
The rail operator states that there are typically 18 trains per day running from Matlock to Matlock Bath.
Industrialist John Smedley transformed the market town into a trendy spa destination in the 19th century, using thermal springs for hydrotherapy treatments.
Matlock is home to Hall Leys Park, boasting its own boating lake, tennis courts, a skateboard park and a children’s play area.
The town centre of Matlock is filled with quaint, independent shops, alongside a variety of cafés, pubs and restaurants.
With its prime location, stunning landscapes, and excellent transport links, Matlock serves as a favoured starting point for those wanting to explore Derbyshire and the Peak District.