Matlock Bath Illuminations 2025: Full Dates, Firework Nights & Ticket Info

Matlock Bath Illuminations are back for 2025, and this year’s season is shaping up to be even bigger, brighter, and better. From Saturday 6th September through to Sunday 26th October, Matlock Bath will once again light up the River Derwent with its iconic parade of illuminated boats, family entertainment, and the spectacular fireworks displays that bring thousands flocking to this charming Derbyshire village every autumn.

Whether it’s your first time or an annual tradition, here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 Matlock Bath Illuminations – including key dates, ticket prices, and how to catch the fireworks.

When Are the 2025 Matlock Bath Illuminations?

The fun begins with a special Preview Night on Saturday 6th September 2025, followed by the full programme running every Saturday and Sunday from 13th September to 26th October. The event is steeped in tradition, offering a magical combination of lights, themed boat parades, live entertainment, and on selected nights, stunning firework finales that light up the Derbyshire skies.

Firework Nights in 2025

If it’s fireworks you’re after, make sure to visit on one of the designated firework nights:

• All Saturdays in October

• Friday 24th October

• Sunday 26th October (Finale Night)

Fireworks are set off from the dramatic cliffs on the opposite side of the river, providing a fantastic natural amphitheatre for the display. The show starts at around 8:30pm and lasts for approximately 10 minutes, but trust us – you’ll want to grab your viewing spot early.

What to Expect

At the heart of the Illuminations is the enchanting parade of decorated boats, lovingly crafted by the Matlock Bath Venetian Boat Builders’ Association. Each boat is decked out with around 700 LED bulbs, forming intricate themed displays that float serenely along the river – from children's favourites to clever cultural tributes.

Both Saturdays and Sundays are themed nights, with the boats often reflecting seasonal or pop culture motifs. In addition to the boat parade, you’ll find stilt walkers, live performers, character appearances, and a funfair, ensuring that there’s plenty to see and do for visitors of all ages.

Sunday evenings are designated Family Nights, with entertainment starting and finishing a little earlier, running from 6.00pm to 8.30pm, ideal for younger visitors who have school the next day.

Special 2025 Offer – Heights of Abraham Discount

This year, the fun doesn’t have to start at sunset. When you book your Illuminations tickets, you’ll gain access to a special discounted offer from the Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath’s top attraction. Ride the famous cable cars, explore the caves, and enjoy daytime entertainment before heading down for the Illuminations in the evening. Full details will be on your e-ticket when you book.

2025 Ticket Prices & How to Book

2025 Preview Night (Saturday 6 September)

• Adults: £5.00 online / £6.50 on the night

• Concessions: £4.00 online / £5.50 on the night

• Children (ages 3-15): £1.00 when accompanied by an adult (under 3s go free)

2025 Non-Firework Nights (All September Saturdays & Sundays, plus Sundays 5, 12, 19 October)

• Adults: £8.00 online / £9.50 on the night

• Concessions: £7.00 online / £8.50 on the night

• Children: £1.00 when accompanied by an adult

2025 Firework Nights (All Saturdays in October, Friday 24th & Sunday 26th October)

• Adults: £9.00 online / £10.50 on the night

• Concessions: £8.00 online / £9.50 on the night

• Children: £1.00 when accompanied by an adult

👉 Book your tickets here

Getting There

Parking:
Several parking areas serve Matlock Bath but be warned – these fill up fast, especially on firework nights. Artists’ Corner (DE4 3PS), Matlock Station Car Park (DE4 3NA), Matlock Bath Station (DE4 3NS), and Temple Road (DE4 3NR) are the main options.

A Park & Ride service runs from Cromford Meadows (DE4 3RQ) between 5pm and 10.30pm (4pm to 9.30pm on 26 October). Return fares are £2.00 per adult, £1.00 per child, and free for under 5s. The service is fully accessible and dog-friendly.

Public Transport:
Matlock Bath is served by the Derwent Valley Line, with trains running between Nottingham and Matlock. Ideal if you want to skip the parking hassle entirely.

Food, Drink & Facilities

There’s no shortage of food and drink options within Derwent Gardens, with vendors offering everything from burgers and hot dogs to sweets, cakes, coffee, and a licensed bar. You’re welcome to bring your own picnic, but cash is king here – most funfair rides and food stalls are cash only. If you forget, there’s a free ATM in the Pavilion car park by the entrance.

Final Tips for a Brilliant Night

• Dress for the weather. Autumn evenings by the river can get chilly, so wrap up warm.

• Arrive early. Parking and prime viewing spots fill up fast, especially on fireworks nights.

• Bring cash. Not everywhere takes card, particularly the food stalls and funfair rides.

• Stay for the fireworks. The river reflections and cliffside launch point make for an unforgettable display.

Create Your Own Firework Display

Feeling inspired to light up your own garden this autumn? At Epic Fireworks, we’ve got everything you need to stage your own spectacular display – from rockets and barrages to low-noise fireworks and garden friendly options for a more neighbour-friendly show.

Our DIY display packs come with everything you need, including a step-by-step firing guide so you can create a show-stopping experience safely and easily.

👉 Browse our full fireworks range here