The Aquarium

Fascinating and fun for all the family.

The former Victorian consulting rooms are now home to the Aquarium containing a selection of British and Tropical freshwater species. From Piranhas to Terrapins and many interesting fish from different regions of the world including the beautiful Malawi Cichlids. Something to interest all the family.

The Petrifying Well

A Source of curiosity and amazement.

Almost forgotten now, even in Matlock Bath where several wells were once visited by thousands of Victorian trippers.

Here you can come and see the ‘petrifying’ process taking place in our working well as the famous Matlock Bath thermal water is sprayed onto objects gradually turning them to stone.

The Hologram Gallery

A Fusion of Photography and Reality.

A fascinating and unique collection of three dimensional pictures produced by laser technology. Images which float in space before you, so real, you will not believe your eyes!

Situation

Matlock bath is situated in glorious countryside and is surrounded by some of the most dramatic scenery in the Derbyshire Dales. Byron referred to Matlock Bath as a romantic fragment of Switzerland set in the heart of England.

Gemstone and fossil collection

A beautiful worldwide collection of gems and fossils including local Blue John Stone.

The History

All attractions are set in this lovely Victorian building which was formerly the Matlock Bath Hydro dating back to 1883. Reminders of its former splendor can be seen in the fine stone staircase, the drinking fountain and huge iron girders spanning the thermal pool.

Thermal Pool

The pool is fed by a spring from the hillside gushing 600,000 gallons a day, at a constant temperature of 20C. This is where patients would immerse themselves in the pool or take the waters to relieve rheumatic ailments and improve digestive disorders.

Today, the health giving properties of the water are enjoyed by the famous collection of large Mirror, Common and Koi Carp, weighing over 30lbs. Visitors are welcome to feed the fish with food obtainable from the Aquarium.

Fish sales & Rescue

We also offer a fish sales and rescue service, housing unwanted specimens until they can be suitably relocated.

Fish sales and rescue by appointment.

Ticket price includes all the attractions.

Organized groups of 20 or more 20% discount.

Opening times

Open daily from Easter – End of October
10:00am – 5:30pm
(Times extend during High Season and Holiday Periods)

Winter Weekends and Christmas Holidays
10:00am – 5:00pm

Educational groups
School visits are welcomed all year by arrangement.
(Special discounts apply)

For further information, please contact:

Matlock Bath Aquarium
110 North Parade
Matlock Bath
Derbyshire DE4 3NS
Tel: 01629 583624 / 01629 582350 (office)
Fax: 01629 760793