Peak District Mining Museum
Explore the rich mining history of the Peak District with immersive underground tours and fascinating crystal exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Peak District Mining Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the rich mining history of the Peak District with immersive underground tours and fascinating crystal exhibits.
"A good museum, though some of the exhibits (and the staff) could do with a refresh."
🎟️ Tickets Valid for 12 Months
Your entry ticket is valid for a whole year, so you can revisit the museum and mine if you wish!
🐶 Dogs Welcome on Leads
Bring your furry friends along! Dogs on leads are welcome in both the museum and the mine tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Underground Mine Tour
Matlock Bath
Descend into a historic mine for an authentic, immersive experience. Duck and climb through narrow passages.
Crystal & Mineral Collection
Museum Exhibits
Marvel at an impressive array of crystals and minerals, showcasing the treasures once sought by miners.
Interactive Exhibits
Museum
Engage with hands-on displays that bring the history of Peak District mining to life for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Mine Tour in Advance
Combine Museum & Mine for Best Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Tickets Valid for 12 Months
Your entry ticket is valid for a whole year, so you can revisit the museum and mine if you wish!
🐶 Dogs Welcome on Leads
Bring your furry friends along! Dogs on leads are welcome in both the museum and the mine tour.
💰 Combined Ticket Value
Save money and get the full experience by purchasing a combined ticket for the museum and mine tour.
⛏️ Panning for Gems Fun
Kids (and adults!) can enjoy panning for mini gemstones at the end of the mine tour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Tickets Valid for 12 Months
Your entry ticket is valid for a whole year, so you can revisit the museum and mine if you wish!
🐶 Dogs Welcome on Leads
Bring your furry friends along! Dogs on leads are welcome in both the museum and the mine tour.
💰 Combined Ticket Value
Save money and get the full experience by purchasing a combined ticket for the museum and mine tour.
⛏️ Panning for Gems Fun
Kids (and adults!) can enjoy panning for mini gemstones at the end of the mine tour.
🚶♀️ Mine Tour Requires Agility
Be prepared to stoop, duck, and climb on the mine tour – it's an authentic experience!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Peak District Mining Museum and its underground mine tour to be a worthwhile and engaging experience, offering a unique glimpse into the region's heritage. While some exhibits and staff could benefit from modernization, the historical value and interactive elements, especially the mine tour, are consistently praised. It's considered a highlight of Matlock Bath for families and history enthusiasts alike.
"A good museum, though some of the exhibits (and the staff) could do with a refresh. Don't tet me wrong, both were really interesting - just a bit jaded and almost going through the motions.
That said, I'd still recommend that people make an effort to visit both the museum and the underground mine tour.
The mine tour seems to run at 11am 1pm and 2.10pm by volunteers. It's a short but steep walk away from the museum and if that puts you off, its nothing to the stopping and ducking of the mine.
Good to be able to see how the miners dug the minerals out of the ground what they look like and used for. The end of the tour panning for mini gemstones was a bit 'lame' for many adults (i guess good fun for kids).
The museum has a lot to take on board, but if you've the time its git a load of history & info.
Overall -yes well worth visiting and by far the best thing going in Matlock Bath, Matlock and area!
Dogs on leads welcome in mine and museum.
Aug 25 £16 gorgeous museum and underground tour."
David Rees
"I decided to visit the highly recommended Peak District Mining Museum while I was in Matlock, and it was well worth the trip. The museum features a variety of mining artefacts, as well as an impressive collection of crystals and minerals. There's a lot of history to explore, and you can also take a mine tour. Admission prices are very reasonable: £8.50 for adults for either the museum or the mine, or you can purchase a combined ticket for £16."
Karolina Banak
"We visited with 2 adults and 5 children ages between 5-70. Everyone loved the mine tour and our tour guide was really engaging with the children. Panning for "gold" after was a great experience. The children enjoyed the museum so much that we went back the next day! I would highly recommend a visit to here."
Ben
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Matlock Bath, Derbyshire. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options include local bus services. Many visitors combine a trip to the museum with exploring other attractions in Matlock Bath, such as the Heights of Abraham or the cable cars.
Yes, there are several car parks in Matlock Bath, which is a popular tourist destination. It's advisable to check local signage for the most convenient parking options upon arrival.
Absolutely! The museum is a great stop when exploring the southern Peak District. Many visitors use it as a base to explore nearby hiking routes or other attractions in Matlock Bath.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are very reasonable. You can purchase tickets for the museum or the mine tour separately, or opt for a combined ticket for both. A combined ticket is often the best value.
Yes, the entry ticket to the Peak District Mining Museum is valid for 12 months, allowing you to return for repeat visits.
While not always mandatory, booking the underground mine tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during busy periods, as spaces can be limited. Check the museum's official website for tour times and booking information.
The museum offers combined tickets which provide good value for families. It's always a good idea to check their official website or contact them directly for any specific group or family discount information.
It is generally possible to purchase tickets online through the museum's official website, which is the most convenient way to secure your spot, especially for the mine tour.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The mine tour is a highlight, taking you underground into a historic mine. It involves stooping, ducking, and climbing through narrow passages, offering an authentic glimpse into the lives of miners. It's an engaging experience for most ages.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly. Children often enjoy the interactive exhibits, climbing tunnels, and the mine tour. Panning for gems at the end of the tour is also a hit with younger visitors.
The museum houses a wealth of mining artefacts, an impressive collection of crystals and minerals, and extensive historical information about the Peak District's mining heritage.
Yes, dogs on leads are welcome in both the museum and the underground mine tour, making it a great outing for families with pets.
To fully enjoy both the museum and the mine tour, it's recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours. Some visitors have enjoyed it so much they've returned the next day!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself may have limited refreshment options. However, Matlock Bath, where the museum is located, offers a wide variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally best to consume outside food in designated picnic areas if available, or outside the museum exhibits. Check with the museum staff upon arrival for their policy.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use in the museum exhibits, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography. Photography inside the mine tour may be restricted due to safety and lighting conditions.
The impressive crystal and mineral displays offer great photo opportunities. The entrance to the mine and the surrounding scenic gorge also provide picturesque backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Inside the museum, interactive exhibits and the chance to see large crystals and minerals keep younger minds engaged. The museum is also very accommodating, with dogs on leads welcome, and the ticket validity for 12 months means you can revisit if your little ones particularly enjoyed it. Consider a combined ticket for the best value and a full day of discovery.
💰 Budget Travelers
Furthermore, the museum ticket is valid for a full 12 months, meaning you can get multiple visits out of a single purchase. Matlock Bath itself is also a scenic area with many free or low-cost attractions, making the museum a perfect addition to an affordable Peak District itinerary.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
Combine your visit with exploring the scenic gorge and other walking opportunities in Matlock Bath. The museum's location makes it a great starting or ending point for exploring the southern Peak District's natural beauty and historical sites.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Underground Mine Tour Experience
Many visitors, including families with young children, have found the tour to be incredibly engaging. The guides are often praised for their enthusiasm and ability to connect with all age groups. The tour concludes with a fun activity where participants can try panning for mini gemstones, which is particularly enjoyed by children. This immersive experience provides a unique perspective on the region's industrial heritage.
While the mine tour is physically demanding for some, its historical significance and the engaging nature of the guides make it a highly recommended part of any visit. It truly brings the history of mining in the Peak District to life in a way that static exhibits cannot.
Exploring the Museum's Collections
A particular highlight is the museum's impressive collection of crystals and minerals. These natural wonders, unearthed by local miners, showcase the geological diversity of the Peak District. The displays are well-curated and offer a vibrant visual experience. Beyond the physical objects, the museum provides extensive historical context, detailing the lives of the miners and the economic impact of mining on the local communities.
For those interested in a more hands-on experience, the museum often features interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages. These can include opportunities to learn about different mining processes or even climb through small tunnels, mimicking the experience of working underground. The museum's staff are often noted for being helpful and informative, adding to the overall positive visitor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit