Everything You Need to Know About the 2024 Matlock Bath Illuminations

The Matlock Bath Illuminations will be bringing their unique charm and dazzling firework displays to the River Derwent again this year.

Running every Saturday and Sunday from 7th September to 27th October, the events are a highlight of the autumn calendar and are a long-standing tradition, featuring beautifully decorated and illuminated boats parading on the River Derwent.

Each boat, covered with around 700 LED bulbs, showcases themed models ranging from children's characters to iconic cultural tributes.

This year's event promises to be as captivating as ever, with fireworks displays lighting up the skies on each of the Saturday nights in the schedule.

Here’s your guide to making the most of these unique evenings.

What's On?

Each night is themed, and you can enjoy entertainment including stilt walkers, character appearances with free photo opportunities, the parade of decorated boats on the River Derwent and a funfair.

Every Sunday is a "family night," with entertainment running from 6.00pm to 8.30pm, making it easier for families with younger children to attend.

Saturday evenings finish with a spectacular firework displays starting at 8.30pm and running for approximately 10 minutes each.

Tickets and Pricing

It's best to pre-book your tickets as on-the-night tickets aren't guaranteed and nights can be sold out in advance. Plus, pre-booking your tickets means you get a discount too.

• Children aged 3-15 and carers can attend for free with pre-booked tickets, or 50p on the night
• Adult tickets are £7.50 pre-booked, rising to £9.50 on the gate.
• Tickets for Disabled & Over 65's are £6.50 pre-booked, and £8.50 on the gate.
• Children under 3 enter for free.

Getting There

Parking can be found at various locations. Artists' Corner on the A6 between Matlock Bath and Matlock (DE4 3PS) offers convenient access. In Matlock itself, the Station Car Park (DE4 3NA) has 192 spaces and is situated next to the main bus station. Other parking options include Matlock Bath Station (DE4 3NS) and Temple Road (DE4 3NR), though these often fill up by 5pm.

A Park & Ride service operates from Cromford Meadows (DE4 3RQ) between 5pm and 10.30pm (4pm to 9.30pm on 27th October). The service costs £2.00 return per adult, £1.00 for children, and is free for under 5s. The buses, which are fully accessible and dog-friendly, drop off near the Illuminations entrance.

Trains are available on the Derwent Valley line between Nottingham and Matlock (including Matlock Bath) on Saturdays and Sundays, providing a convenient public transport option.

Food and Drink

A variety of food stalls will be available in Derwent Gardens, offering options such as burgers, hot dogs, coffee, tea, cold drinks, cake, and sweets. There’s also a licensed bar.

While you can bring your own picnics and refreshments, the onsite food vendors provide plenty of choices.

Note that the funfair rides and food stalls are cash-only, so it's wise to bring cash. A free cash machine is located in the Pavilion car park near the Derwent Gardens entrance if you forget.

Highlights of the Illuminations

The decorated boats are the centrepiece of the Illuminations. Volunteers from the Matlock Bath Venetian Boat Builders’ Association create themed models mounted on rowing boats, each illuminated with thousands of LED lights. Themes range from children's favourites like Peppa Pig to more adult themes such as Doctor Who and even a tribute to trucks and police cars.

The firework displays, set off from the cliffs on the far side of the river, create a stunning spectacle that can be viewed from most areas of Derwent Gardens. The fireworks, lasting approximately 10 minutes, provide a magical end to the evening. Remember, these firework finales are only on Saturdays in October and the final night, Sunday 27th October.

Final Top Tips for a Great Night at the Illuminations

Arrive early to secure a good parking spot and enjoy all the pre-parade activities. Dress warmly as the evenings can get chilly, and bring cash for the food stalls and funfair rides. The event is held rain or shine, so check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Put On Your Own Illuminating Firework Display

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Whether you're planning a small garden show or have something bigger in mind, explore our selection of fountains, sparklers, rockets, barrages, mines, roman candles, loud fireworks, quiet fireworks and more.

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