As much as we love the iconic British countryside, it’s always a pleasant surprise when you find somewhere which reminds you of a place that’s a bit further afield. For instance, who’d have thought that you would stumble upon an Italian resort in North Wales?
There's another slice of Europe which can be found just outside of the Peak District. The Heights of Abraham is a hilltop park in Matlock Bath, a village in Derbyshire, and it’s been dubbed ‘Little Switzerland’. To get to the park you can catch a cable car with travels up 554ft to the summit of Masson Hill, looking out on stunning views of the lush green landscape. On a bright sunny day it truly feels like you could be in an alpine resort as you look out onto the Derwent Valley
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The estate first welcomed visitors in 1787 and you can still follow the original paths through the park today. With 60 acres of land to explore when you get to the hilltop, there’s plenty to keep you occupied.
Weaving through the park is a network of paths, which lead you to the various sights the Heights has to offer. At one of the highest points of the park is Tinker’s Mine Shaft, which reflects the estate’s industrial past and also makes for an excellent view point.
Or you can head underground and take a guided tour through the estates' two show caverns the Masson Cavern and the Rutland Cavern. There are regular tours throughout the day when you can learn about the caves’ 350 million year history.
Back outside, there is an adventure playground for children and a butterfly trail. Meanwhile, older visitors will appreciate the exhibitions held in the Masson Pavilion.
Another gem not to be missed is The Summer House, a quaint thatched cottage hidden among the trees which was first constructed in 1801 and initially served as a resting place for tourists walking up the hill. The walls of the building are made out of tufa rock, formed from the calcified organic material including twigs, leaves and snail shells.
After all the walking you can treat yourself to a meal at the Vista Restaurant which boasts some incredible views over the valley. You can even purchase a souvenir for your visit from the Rock Shop where you can buy jewellery made from Blue John stone, which is a mineral unique to the area and mined at the village of Castleton.
Tickets cost £23 for adults when booked online, children aged 5-15 cost £15 online while a family ticket for two adults and two children costs £69 online. Tickets can be purchased at the gate but can be more expensive.
You can book tickets online at www.heightsofabraham.com.
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