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Matlock Bath Illuminations & Venetian Nights
Matlock Bath Illuminations & Venetian Nights

Matlock Bath Illuminations and Venetian Nights is an extremely popular event during September and October where Matlock Bath becomes illuminated by light displays along the River Derwent. Boat parades of illuminated boats on the River Derwent can be seen on Saturday and Sunday evenings throughout the illuminations period. The spectacular boats are built by voluntary groups for a variety of local organisations.

In addition to the boat parades and events now held in Matlock Bath's Derwent Gardens there are firework displays on some Saturdays during this period. The fireworks are set off from the cliff top above Matlock Bath giving everyone at The Temple Hotel the perfect viewing point.

The illuminations and Venetian Nights normally start on the first Saturday in September and continue through to the last Saturday in October. The first night this year will be Saturday 31st August 2013.

Fireworks Weekend Package
Fireworks Weekend Package

Starting from £200 per couple *

Break includes dinner, bed and breakfast on Saturday (Fireworks Evening) plus bed and breakfast on either Friday or Sunday.

Available on the Matlock Bath Fireworks Weekends during October 2013

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Fireworks Evening

At 7.30pm a three course dinner followed by coffee and chocolates will be served in our private dining room overlooking the Illuminations in the Derwent Valley. Guests can view the Fireworks at 9pm from the dining room or the private garden terrace.

* Supplements: £20 per night for room with a valley view or king-size bed.

2013 Dates - unconfirmed
2013 Dates - unconfirmed

Saturday 31st August - First night of the Illuminations

Saturday 5th October - Fireworks Display

Saturday 12th October - Fireworks Display

Saturday 19th October - Fireworks Display

Saturday 26th October - Fireworks Display (last night of the Illuminations)

The Illuminationations can be seen all week but events are held at the Derwent Gardens from 7pm every Saturday and Sunday during the Illuminations season. The illuminated boats can be seen from 8pm until 9pm from the Derwent Gardens on Saturday and Sunday. Last entry is 8.45pm and an entry fee is required. Please note that no events will be held on Sunday 27th October.

History of Matlock Bath's Illuminations

In the 1800's Matlock Bath was one of the top destinations in the country for many wealthy English tourists, including the Royal family.  Matlock Bath Illuminations were originally inspired by the recollections of an earlier visit by a young and pre-coronation Queen Victoria, then Princess Victoria.  During her visit, which included Tea at The Temple Hotel, she saw candlelight reflecting in the River Derwent and the shimmering lights made a lasting impression.  Whilst on her visit Princess Victoria signed a pane of glass in the restaurant window, on which Lord Byron had previously etched a poem.  Although not in its orignal position this window pane is still on display at The Temple Hotel.

Matlock Bath Illuminations, originally known as Venetian Nights first took place in 1887 to celebrate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. For many years the illuminations were candlelit, and the local residents would line the riverbanks with fairy lights, lamps and oriental lanterns, whilst watching the procession of twinkling boats on the river.  In 1950 the event switched to electric lighting although the tradition has been maintained as the Boat Parade continues to feature one candlelit boat.

Fireworks Evening Menu

Starters

Beetroot and Ginger Soup finished with Lime Creme Fraiche

Warm Leek and Stilton Eccles Cakes with Caramelised Onion Chutney and Baby Leaf Salad

Salad of Warm Pigeon Breast and Blackberries with Elderberry Glaze

Main Courses

Beer Braised Beef with Rosemary Roasted Shallots

Chicken Breast with Crab Meat stuffing served with a White Wine and Prawn Sauce

Roast Baby Squash filled with Mushroom, Cranberry and Quinoa

All main courses are served with a selection of potatoes and vegetables

Desserts

Pecan and Bourbon Pie with Ice Cream

Steamed Chocolate Sponge Pudding with Chocolate Fudge Sauce

Cheese and Biscuits

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Guest Reviews

Overall rating: 4.3 out of 5
 Clean, comfortable and very good breakfast. 
Wendy / May 13
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