Heights Of Abraham

About Heights Of Abraham

Heights of Abraham is famous for its cable cars, which take visitors on a flight through the scenic Derwent Valley, passing over river, road and rail before reaching the summit of Masson Hill. Once at the summit the 235-year story of the Heights springs to life. Visitors can take two different tours through underground illuminated caverns, with professional guides to lead the way. There are three exhibitions, delving deeper into the heritage of the 60-acre estate. Adventure playgrounds are on offer to keep the children busy, with heritage gardens and sculptures too. The Heights is a truly unique and memorable day out.

The Cable Car

Begin your day at the Heights of Abraham by taking a flight in one of the famous cable cars. Travel across the picturesque Derwent Valley in style and enjoy the views of Matlock Bath below. The journey takes you over 554ft upwards to the summit, 1000ft above sea level.

The Summit

Once you reach the summit, experience the Peak District surrounding this special place, with views of peaks and valleys everywhere you look. Holding a 230-year story the Heights tells many unexpected tales of heritage and history. The estate first opened in 1787 and has been welcoming visitors ever since.

Underground Caverns

Take a guided tour into the two famous show caverns at the Heights, the Great Masson Cavern, and the Great Rutland. Discover the hidden world and the geological formations of the Great Masson Cavern as you head 1/3 of a mile underground into the hillside. The Great Rutland Cavern takes you back in time on a themed Victorian tour. Learn about the tools used for the job, the uses of lead and what happened to the miners once the lead dried up.

Exhibitions

With such a long story to tell, visitors can find out more about the heritage of the Heights in three different exhibitions. The Long View tells the tale of tourism in Matlock Bath, including famous faces and how the Heights began. Upstairs in the film theatre, find out how the cable cars were built in 1984! A Mirror on the Past showcases exquisite reproductions of period costumes that visitors would have worn on a day out between 1787 and 1910.

Restaurant, Cafe and Bar

The Vista Restaurant and Terrace Café are almost 1000ft above sea level. The Vista balcony gives views for miles across the valley, a great place to soak up the surroundings while enjoying a freshly made meal. Visitors can take a light lunch with friends in the downstairs café, with far-reaching views to enjoy with a hot drink and a delicious cake.

Adventure Play

Let the kids loose on the Woodland Adventure and Explorer’s Challenge playgrounds, with giant slides, climbing equipment, basket swing and so much more!

Heritage Buildings, Gardens and Sculptures

Explore the Victoria Prospect Tower and the Summerhouse, both built in the 1800s. Newly installed willow sculptures by artist Caroline Gregson further tell the tales of the past 235 years by depicting important moments of Masson Hill, paused in time.