Book online to beat the queues

15 July 2010

Tickets for the eight-week spectacle are only £4 for adults and £3.50 for over 60s. Children under 16 are free and can enjoy fabulous entertainment each weekend in the Derwent Gardens.

District Council Chairman Councillor Geoff Stevens, who has been involved in the Illuminations for many years, said: “Around 100,000 people visit the event annually - and having a ticket in hand rather than paying on the night is a great way to beat the queues.

“Tourism in the Derbyshire Dales generates more than £243 million and 5,440 jobs to the local economy, and the Illuminations play their part with the centrepiece parade of 10 illuminated and decorated boats on the beautiful River Derwent.  The District Council is delighted to provide a unique family experience in a beautiful setting second to none in the UK. “

You can book online (opens in a new window) at our partner website visitpeakdistrict.com.

The annual festival dates back to 1897 when the people of Matlock Bath celebrated Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee by illuminating their village with fairy lamps and Chinese and Japanese lanterns.

The illuminations today concentrate on the lighting of natural features such as rock outcrops, trees and the thermal waters in the Derwent Gardens.

The entertainment begins at 7pm every Saturday and Sunday evening from 4 September until 30 October and can be viewed from Derwent Gardens. Clifftop firework displays will add to the fun on 2, 16 and 30 October. This year’s event will be complemented by a full programme of entertainment on or near the bandstand in Derwent Gardens every Saturday and Sunday evening.

For further details about Matlock Bath Illuminations, view the PDF document below or call 01629 583388.