Matlock
Matlock is right on the edge of the Peak District National Park. What a great location for a new home if you want an easy work-life balance on your doorstep. The open space of the Peak District is the perfect balance with Matlock's easy access to Derby, Nottingham and Sheffield.
Matlock plays an important role as Derbyshire's county town, and the conservation area of the town is a hint of its history and heritage. It's a pretty town with lots of character. There are plenty of local shops and supermarkets, a train station on the Derwent Valley Line between Matlock and Derby, a lovely park alongside the River Derwent, and the convenience of the A6 for connections throughout the East Midlands.
Getting around
The A6 is the main road route that links Matlock with Manchester, Stockport, Buxton, Bakewell and Derby. Northwest of the town, it heads right across the Peak District. Train travel to Derby couldn't be more convenient, with an average 35-minute journey time. High Peak buses and Stagecoach Yorkshire make sure that there are good bus services as an option too.
Staying home
Matlock has all that you need for day-to-day living, with the bonus of a good range of independent shops, a Wednesday open-air market and plenty of cafes and places to eat to choose from. There's a Sainsbury's supermarket next to the station and a Co-op and M&S Food within the town. Highfields is the town's comprehensive school, set over two sites. Hall Leys Park is a local amenity and it also plays host to a number of continental markets and the much-loved Christmas Market.
On the edge
The Peak District National Park has to be one of Matlock's greatest assets. It covers about 555 square miles and is home to the historic Chatsworth House. It's one of the most visited National Parks and is a fantastic setting for family walks, bike rides, getting right off the beaten track, and Sunday lunches in lovely traditional villages.