Matlock Bath Illuminations

Don't miss your chance to tell us what you thought about this year's Matlock Bath Illuminations in our quick online survey > https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/WKBGP2D< br>

SURVEY | Every year we aim to improve your Matlock Bath Illuminations experience by listening to what you have to say. So if you attended the Illuminations in 2018, please complete our quick questionnaire here > https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/WKBGP2D And thank you! 🙂

Fabulous fireworks are signalling the end of this year's Illuminations 🎇. A massive thank you to everyone who attended this year - hope you had a great time 😍. Our thanks also to the totally amazing boat builders for another stunning parade in 2018 (was it the best ever?), to our dedicated organising team and to everyone who contributes in any way to helping to keep this tremendous tradition going. Hope to see everyone again next year!

Not landed in Matlock Bath yet for tonight's Illuminations? You may find parking a problem but the *good news* is our Park & Ride service from Cromford Meadows is now OPEN! Buses run between Cromford Meadows (DE4 3RQ) and Matlock Bath from 4.30pm to 9pm and a return ticket costs just £2 adults, £1 child - under 5s are free. Please note there is no shuttle bus from Matlock station this evening. More info & other parking and public transport options here > http://bit.ly/2wGmAVI

TICKETS UPDATE | We've now sold almost 90% of available tickets for tonight's final night of the 2018 Illuminations. There's still time to guarantee your tickets & save cash by booking online. A reminder that we open earlier than usual at **5.30** this evening with the fireworks finale at 8pm.🎇 It's already busy In Matlock Bath, so check out our park & ride service from Cromford Meadows, with buses running from 4.30pm. More here about tickets, timings, parking & public transport > http://bit.ly/2uESkJU

REMINDER | We open earlier than usual at **5.30** this evening with the fireworks finale at 8pm.🎇 It's going to be busy, so check out our park & ride service from Cromford Meadows, with buses running from 4.30pm. More here about tickets, timings, parking & public transport > http://bit.ly/2uESkJU

GOOD NEWS! Our park & ride service usually only operates from Cromford Meadows on Saturdays... but it will also run *TODAY* (from 4.30pm to 9pm) for the final night of the 2018 Illuminations 🙂 Please note there is no shuttle bus service from Matlock this evening. More info here > http://bit.ly/2uESkJU

Good morning! It's a cracking day for our final Illuminations of 2018 and we can't rule out another sell-out. Our best advice is to book **now** and save cash too 😍. Remember we start at 5.30 this evening with the fireworks finale at 8pm.🎇 Enjoy! Book here > http://bit.ly/2uESkJU

One more decorated boats parade, one more fire show, one more fireworks finale... ☹️ Our 2018 Illuminations end tomorrow, so catch them while you can & grab your cheaper online tickets here > http://bit.ly/2uESkJU Kids go FREE!

Not landed in Matlock Bath yet for tonight's Illuminations? You may find parking a problem but the *good news* is our Saturday Shuttle Bus and Park & Ride services are now OPEN! The Shuttle Bus runs from Bay 5 at Matlock Bus Station, next to Matlock's 192-space Station Car Park (DE4 3NA), where it's just £1 to park after 6pm. Buses run between Matlock and Matlock Bath from 5pm to 10.30pm and a return ticket costs just £2 adults, £1 child - under 5s are free.
It's the same price for our Saturday Park & Ride service, which runs from Cromford Meadows (DE4 3RQ) - again between 5pm and 10.30pm. More info on these services and other parking options here > http://bit.ly/2wGmAVI

TICKETS UPDATE: It looks like we will have a limited number of tickets available at the gate for tonight's Illuminations... but there's still time to book online and save cash 😀. Do it here > www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk/illuminationsF AQs

If you're visiting the Illuminations this evening, **please plan ahead** - and give yourself plenty of time. There's lots to see and do in beautiful Matlock Bath so aim to land early 😍 Click on our FAQs to familiarise yourself with parking options including our park and ride services from 5pm, public transport & timings > http://bit.ly/2uESkJU

PLEASE NOTE! Tickets selling very quickly for tonight's Illuminations, with 80% sold... and counting! Don't risk being turned away at the gate. 🎇🙂 Our best advice is to save cash by booking online NOW (and kids go FREE!). Do it here > http://bit.ly/2uESkJU

**HEADS-UP** | Don't risk being turned away at the gate this evening! We sold out in advance of gates opening last Saturday and pre-bookings are just as busy for tonight. 🎇🙂 Our best advice is to save cash by booking online NOW (and kids go FREE!). Do it here > http://bit.ly/2uESkJU

Did we mention we have fabulous FIREWORKS both days this weekend - sponsored by the totally brilliant Heights of Abraham attraction here in Matlock Bath. There's a 9pm fireworks finale tonight and it's 8pm tomorrow - our final night of the 2018 season :( PLUS we have fire shows, the funfair and of course our famous parade of decorated boats! Please note we can't guarantee tickets will be available at the gate, so book & save cash too here > http://bit.ly/2uESkJU where you'll also find everything you need to know about prices, timings, transport & parking. Kids go FREE!

Grab a ticket while we still have some left for our final weekend of the 2018 Illuminations this Saturday and Sunday 🎇😍. Check out the schedule for both nights here > http://bit.ly/2M2JbW5

It could well be our busiest weekend of the season, so **please plan ahead** - especially if you've never visited the Illuminations before. Give yourself plenty of time and familiarise yourself with parking options and our park & ride and shuttle bus services. Also, save yourself some cash (and guarantee you will actually be able to get tickets - THEY MAY SELL OUT) by booking online NOW. Here's everything you need to know about parking, tickets, transport & timings > http://bit.ly/2uESkJU Kids go *FREE*!

REMINDER | To fit everything in as we have FIREWORKS this Sunday and remain committed to finishing as early as possible for our younger visitors, we're opening the gates at *5.30pm*, with the fireworks finale at 8pm. Saturday timings remain unchanged (gates open at 6 with fireworks at 9).
Our best advice is to book in advance. Do it here and also check out the full entertainment programme for both days > http://bit.ly/2M2JbW5
A reminder too that another special addition is that our park & ride service will also be operating from Cromford Meadows on Sunday from 4.30pm (not from Matlock).

We had a great time on Saturday, the boats were really impressive. We had a good spot to see everything on the Lovers Walk side of the river but it soon got busy so I'd recommend either getting in place early or waiting until 8pm (ish) when the main crowd seemed to rush to get back to the bridge and the pathway was pretty clear. Plus there are two ways in and out so don't just follow the crowds

Many people complaining about car parking that obviously didn’t experience the wonderful free car park with optional bus service at good value at £2 per person return! The boats were fewer than previous years but the standard was a lot higher. We arrived early to enjoy the facilities before the crowds arrived and had some mediocre hot dogs but later had fish&chips near the aquarium which were very nice. This event has limited space and crowds are expected so if you don’t like crowds,then don’t turn up! The event clearly states fireworks at 9pm so if that is too late for your kids then go home and don’t moan about it. Really enjoyed this on Sat evening and will go back next year (and very likely for years after).

Lovely family event. We have been several times this year. Much quieter and relaxed in September than October, so would suggest going to the earlier ones.

Nice atmosphere, boats very well presented, kids loved the Ninky Nonk and lego car.

Food pricey, but very good value fish and chips available on the main street just outside of the gardens.

Fire and glow show was entertaining. Fairground seems very cramped and having to buy tokens is a bit inconvenient. Queue system seems non existent.

Our kids had a lovely time and we are already looking forward to seeing next years boats!

Loved the up to date themes of the illuminated boats, clearly a lot of time and effort went into them. Great fireworks. Park and ride was totally painless. Yummy fish and chips before going to the gardens. There was more inside the gardens than I had expected! Prices were what you'd expect for an event such as this. It rained all night pretty much but the show went on and didn't dampen our spirits at all! Was busy which we expected and was nice to see but it wasn't as bad as I had anticipated. Had a really lovely evening and at a very reasonable, affordable price. Thank you! Would recommend and come back. It makes me happy that in times of budget cuts etc the council continues to support and run this fantastic event. Please don't give it up after 120 years.

I came tonight with my hubby n 3 year old son. We had a lovely evening. We will definitely go again. Very talented people with their gorgeous boats, my son enjoyed the rides and we enjoyed the fireworks too. We had a lovely evening! The stewards was very helpful and polite. To all the moaners out there, don't go to busy events if you don't like them for God sake. I've read the comments and omg it's a family night out so bloody enjoy it. Don't expect things for free!! Does it matter how much things cost, it's the look on your child's face what you should be thinking of n how much they r enjoying the rides. Stay in and be boring! Rant over!! Definitely use park n ride too. My family enjoyed our night out in Matlock! Thank you to all the organisers of the event. See you next year! �

A wonderful evening even though the British weather tried to spoil it. The boats looked amazing and the people that create them deserve a lot of the credit as they must put a lot of time and effort into them. I was a little disappointed that there were so many food stalls as this must take business away from the shops on the main street. Lovely fish and chips before we went in and took some great photos. Highly recommended for all the family.

We were here yesterday for the final day. We came on the train from Derby (£18 return for 2 adults 2 children) and started the day with The Heights of Abraham, total of £43 (20% off if come on the train) which includes the ride up and down in the cable cars and entry to the 2 caves.

After doing everything up there, which was really good, we came down for a few drinks at the pubs and a look around the shops before heading to the illuminations.

Masses of people which was expected, although sometimes this made it difficult to get to where you wanted to go. Had a mooch around and kids (13 and 10) went on 1 ride (rides are mainly for young children). Found a spot at the other side of the river to wait for the boats about 25 mins before the start time and boats were on time. We were all very impressed with the boats. Couldn't hear the commentary very well from over the river though. Dashed (I say dashed but more like waddled like penguins) back to the bandstand to catch the second fire and glow show which was enjoyable to watch and then waited for the fireworks which were great!! Managed to do/see everything, which is always a bonus at these busy events.



Lost a star because of the rip off food, drink and ice-cream vans. £15 for 3 plain burgers!!!! � Very overpriced for what they were!!! If we had time to find something cheaper we would have but needed to get back for the train. Wish we had ate before coming in the park now but we had a late dinner at the cafe up The Heights of Abraham so wasn't quite ready.



Apart from this, we had a great day out.

Great event , well worth the wait and the travel .

My only issue was the parking .

Thanks for the ticket mr civil enforcement officer ��

No marked bays left was basically a free for all and park where you could .

And for the crap parking you punish people or should I say rake money in !!!!!

Spectacular array of illuminated boats.. fantastic firework display however the set out for all the rides was horrendous! Trying to get to the rides was very hard and scary to get through with two young children as everyone had come from the other side of the bridge trying to exit the event. The rides were very close together, there was only one entrance and exit . My child got his belt unclipped by a ride attendant before me or his dad could get to him, he could've fallen and really hurt himself, Before the ride started my partner was told to go behind the barrier due to safety reasons!! I couldn't get through as there was so many people trying to get their children and out other children on! There was no safety precautions put in place at all! As a easy going family who don't often complain.. we was very disappointed of our experience when it came to letting our children on the rides!

My first visit to the Illuminations and, unfortunately, I wa disappointed. The boats were very cleverly designed and the park was lovely however, it felt a bit of an anti climax and money not well spent for 7 boats. The food and drink stalls were ridiculously priced and everything was a bit too cramped together. It’s a shame it’s been confined to that area and isn’t on the promenade anymore.



Staff were lovely and enthusiastic and the organisation was good :) there are probably more boats on other nights but I was disappointed that there weren’t many, nor did they (bar one) have anything to do with the theme :(



All in all my 3 year old enjoyed the rides and it was a nice, different family day out

It's great we loved it had a great afternoon watching the illuminated boats going along the river an watching the entertainment the firework display was wonderful. Had a brilliant day out. Just the parking best to get early.

Bought tickets on line and arrived 2hrs early to make sure we got parked ok and was waiting patiently to secure a good view with my 8yr old grandson and my elderly parents who obviously couldn't stand at the barrier only to be bullied out of the way by people who arrived late and obviously had no manners. We were in the gardens from 5.30pm and were not once asked for our tickets !!! How many had actually NOT bought them as policing it seemed a joke !

Went last night after being disappointed last Saturday with no tickets,, wasn’t happy last night with two small children, waited hour and half for a very disappointing show , wasn’t worth waiting for , and couldn’t understand why we had to wait really , hundreds waited and hundreds went home disappointed ,, no mention of refunds,, and the security or lack of it was disgusting we walked straight through no one asked to see tickets ,, surely knowing the volume of people who had small children security is a must

We went tonight and it was really poor quality we arrived early to get a parking space.No one asked about our tickets which we paid online and when i asked somone who was working during the event said their isnt always people at the gates and not all people pay if they get their early � so in reality we paid and others were walking in for free ???? Also we waited for the superhero guys to arrive they were late which made everything else late so we had to miss the boats as people were getting fractious around us and we had young children with us the prices for the rides are £2 and the games are £3 which are poorly ran on some of them.Who ever was speaking on the stage didnt seem to know what was going on either ??? Sad to say a totally let down � on the plus side we did go a lovely chocolate shop and sweet shop and we had fish and chips which we all enjoyed.

Not sure I will be attending again... stood for an hour and didn't stay for the fireworks, 9pm too late for small children. 7pm better time for the boats, 8pm for fireworks.... boats looked great and clearly a lot of work gone into them but sadly this didn't float my boat.

Where to start! We've just got back from the illuminations, firstly the boats were fab and my 3 kids loved them, the fire works were again fab! Unfortunately the rest of the evening was awful, it was total chaos no organisation what so ever, there were drunks pushing and shoving (to the point where a drunk young man nearly knocked a old lady of the bench she was sat on) trying to cross the bridge from the park to lovers walk was a nightmare and we ended up waiting for 10 minutes just to cross! We've had people barge passed out kids and everything! Way too many people confined to a small space! We will definitely not be returning which is a shame as we love matlock bath!

We went tonight and was hugely disappointed

People were walking in for free when we paid to get in which was unfair! The commentator didn't have a clue what was going off on the night. We were stood for an hour and a half waiting for the boats in the freezing cold for them then to be told it wasn't going to plan as the water levels were rising and 2 boats weren't even going on! We ended up leaving as it was far too late for our 1 year old boy! So we never even got to see them.

Prices for food n rides were ridiculous

Will not be going again! Only good thing was the fish and chips which we enjoyed!!!

We travelled 20 miles to see the illuminations or NOT see them should i say! We could not get parked we drove all the way up and back down the strip the multi storey car park was blocked off with cars! We paid online thinking we'd be organised and guaranteed a spot and not wanting to risk no enrty! The organisation surely know a rough amount of cars that can park around the venue but they clearly know what they are doing not giving refunds i think of all the people like us that paid online and had to go back home and all the people that didn't have tickets and got in because we couldn't! Double money in there pockets! There was still plenty of people trying to get parked as we left aswell so they must have made a killing off us all! It should be ticket only so they have a more accurate number of people who can actually get in and see what they have paid for! Had three disappointed kids two of which fell asleep as we headed back because we'd been driving around for so long!

So I wish I was writing an amazing review for this event...believe me I would like to be. Unfortunately it was chaotic, badly organised and a real disappointment for my family. We went all excited to then leave frustrated. Matlock is a gorgeous place and the park looked gorgeous all trimmed up. See trying to give positives. The fun fair is ok for any children under 5. The stalls selling food and drink were ridiculously over priced. The event itself states (on the confirmation I received from booking tickets) that on a Sunday the boat event starts at 7pm. At about 6.55, the compare stated the event wouldn't run as normal due to weather conditions on the river.....the boat event didn't actually start until after 7.30pm, by this time lots of children around me including my own were very very bored. I know it will be said that there was a super hero event happening, but this could only be seen by a minority of the crowd. We decided to leave earlier than planned due to the event starting late and the poor show of the boats ( the boats were amazing, so will give credit there), we could only just manage to get back across the river as the bridge was blocked solid with people, nd the stewards seemed to have disappeared. I really think you need to have a 're think about future events...and the way things are organised. I would hate to think other families were left disappointed in a way that we were.

We had a great time on Saturday, the boats were really impressive. We had a good spot to see everything on the Lovers Walk side of the river but it soon got busy so I'd recommend either getting in place early or waiting until 8pm (ish) when the main crowd seemed to rush to get back to the bridge and the pathway was pretty clear. Plus there are two ways in and out so don't just follow the crowds

Many people complaining about car parking that obviously didn’t experience the wonderful free car park with optional bus service at good value at £2 per person return! The boats were fewer than previous years but the standard was a lot higher. We arrived early to enjoy the facilities before the crowds arrived and had some mediocre hot dogs but later had fish&chips near the aquarium which were very nice. This event has limited space and crowds are expected so if you don’t like crowds,then don’t turn up! The event clearly states fireworks at 9pm so if that is too late for your kids then go home and don’t moan about it. Really enjoyed this on Sat evening and will go back next year (and very likely for years after).

Lovely family event. We have been several times this year. Much quieter and relaxed in September than October, so would suggest going to the earlier ones.

Nice atmosphere, boats very well presented, kids loved the Ninky Nonk and lego car.

Food pricey, but very good value fish and chips available on the main street just outside of the gardens.

Fire and glow show was entertaining. Fairground seems very cramped and having to buy tokens is a bit inconvenient. Queue system seems non existent.

Our kids had a lovely time and we are already looking forward to seeing next years boats!

Loved the up to date themes of the illuminated boats, clearly a lot of time and effort went into them. Great fireworks. Park and ride was totally painless. Yummy fish and chips before going to the gardens. There was more inside the gardens than I had expected! Prices were what you'd expect for an event such as this. It rained all night pretty much but the show went on and didn't dampen our spirits at all! Was busy which we expected and was nice to see but it wasn't as bad as I had anticipated. Had a really lovely evening and at a very reasonable, affordable price. Thank you! Would recommend and come back. It makes me happy that in times of budget cuts etc the council continues to support and run this fantastic event. Please don't give it up after 120 years.

I came tonight with my hubby n 3 year old son. We had a lovely evening. We will definitely go again. Very talented people with their gorgeous boats, my son enjoyed the rides and we enjoyed the fireworks too. We had a lovely evening! The stewards was very helpful and polite. To all the moaners out there, don't go to busy events if you don't like them for God sake. I've read the comments and omg it's a family night out so bloody enjoy it. Don't expect things for free!! Does it matter how much things cost, it's the look on your child's face what you should be thinking of n how much they r enjoying the rides. Stay in and be boring! Rant over!! Definitely use park n ride too. My family enjoyed our night out in Matlock! Thank you to all the organisers of the event. See you next year! �

A wonderful evening even though the British weather tried to spoil it. The boats looked amazing and the people that create them deserve a lot of the credit as they must put a lot of time and effort into them. I was a little disappointed that there were so many food stalls as this must take business away from the shops on the main street. Lovely fish and chips before we went in and took some great photos. Highly recommended for all the family.

We were here yesterday for the final day. We came on the train from Derby (£18 return for 2 adults 2 children) and started the day with The Heights of Abraham, total of £43 (20% off if come on the train) which includes the ride up and down in the cable cars and entry to the 2 caves.

After doing everything up there, which was really good, we came down for a few drinks at the pubs and a look around the shops before heading to the illuminations.

Masses of people which was expected, although sometimes this made it difficult to get to where you wanted to go. Had a mooch around and kids (13 and 10) went on 1 ride (rides are mainly for young children). Found a spot at the other side of the river to wait for the boats about 25 mins before the start time and boats were on time. We were all very impressed with the boats. Couldn't hear the commentary very well from over the river though. Dashed (I say dashed but more like waddled like penguins) back to the bandstand to catch the second fire and glow show which was enjoyable to watch and then waited for the fireworks which were great!! Managed to do/see everything, which is always a bonus at these busy events.



Lost a star because of the rip off food, drink and ice-cream vans. £15 for 3 plain burgers!!!! � Very overpriced for what they were!!! If we had time to find something cheaper we would have but needed to get back for the train. Wish we had ate before coming in the park now but we had a late dinner at the cafe up The Heights of Abraham so wasn't quite ready.



Apart from this, we had a great day out.

Great event , well worth the wait and the travel .

My only issue was the parking .

Thanks for the ticket mr civil enforcement officer ��

No marked bays left was basically a free for all and park where you could .

And for the crap parking you punish people or should I say rake money in !!!!!

Spectacular array of illuminated boats.. fantastic firework display however the set out for all the rides was horrendous! Trying to get to the rides was very hard and scary to get through with two young children as everyone had come from the other side of the bridge trying to exit the event. The rides were very close together, there was only one entrance and exit . My child got his belt unclipped by a ride attendant before me or his dad could get to him, he could've fallen and really hurt himself, Before the ride started my partner was told to go behind the barrier due to safety reasons!! I couldn't get through as there was so many people trying to get their children and out other children on! There was no safety precautions put in place at all! As a easy going family who don't often complain.. we was very disappointed of our experience when it came to letting our children on the rides!

My first visit to the Illuminations and, unfortunately, I wa disappointed. The boats were very cleverly designed and the park was lovely however, it felt a bit of an anti climax and money not well spent for 7 boats. The food and drink stalls were ridiculously priced and everything was a bit too cramped together. It’s a shame it’s been confined to that area and isn’t on the promenade anymore.



Staff were lovely and enthusiastic and the organisation was good :) there are probably more boats on other nights but I was disappointed that there weren’t many, nor did they (bar one) have anything to do with the theme :(



All in all my 3 year old enjoyed the rides and it was a nice, different family day out

It's great we loved it had a great afternoon watching the illuminated boats going along the river an watching the entertainment the firework display was wonderful. Had a brilliant day out. Just the parking best to get early.

Bought tickets on line and arrived 2hrs early to make sure we got parked ok and was waiting patiently to secure a good view with my 8yr old grandson and my elderly parents who obviously couldn't stand at the barrier only to be bullied out of the way by people who arrived late and obviously had no manners. We were in the gardens from 5.30pm and were not once asked for our tickets !!! How many had actually NOT bought them as policing it seemed a joke !

Went last night after being disappointed last Saturday with no tickets,, wasn’t happy last night with two small children, waited hour and half for a very disappointing show , wasn’t worth waiting for , and couldn’t understand why we had to wait really , hundreds waited and hundreds went home disappointed ,, no mention of refunds,, and the security or lack of it was disgusting we walked straight through no one asked to see tickets ,, surely knowing the volume of people who had small children security is a must

We went tonight and it was really poor quality we arrived early to get a parking space.No one asked about our tickets which we paid online and when i asked somone who was working during the event said their isnt always people at the gates and not all people pay if they get their early � so in reality we paid and others were walking in for free ???? Also we waited for the superhero guys to arrive they were late which made everything else late so we had to miss the boats as people were getting fractious around us and we had young children with us the prices for the rides are £2 and the games are £3 which are poorly ran on some of them.Who ever was speaking on the stage didnt seem to know what was going on either ??? Sad to say a totally let down � on the plus side we did go a lovely chocolate shop and sweet shop and we had fish and chips which we all enjoyed.

Not sure I will be attending again... stood for an hour and didn't stay for the fireworks, 9pm too late for small children. 7pm better time for the boats, 8pm for fireworks.... boats looked great and clearly a lot of work gone into them but sadly this didn't float my boat.

Where to start! We've just got back from the illuminations, firstly the boats were fab and my 3 kids loved them, the fire works were again fab! Unfortunately the rest of the evening was awful, it was total chaos no organisation what so ever, there were drunks pushing and shoving (to the point where a drunk young man nearly knocked a old lady of the bench she was sat on) trying to cross the bridge from the park to lovers walk was a nightmare and we ended up waiting for 10 minutes just to cross! We've had people barge passed out kids and everything! Way too many people confined to a small space! We will definitely not be returning which is a shame as we love matlock bath!

We went tonight and was hugely disappointed

People were walking in for free when we paid to get in which was unfair! The commentator didn't have a clue what was going off on the night. We were stood for an hour and a half waiting for the boats in the freezing cold for them then to be told it wasn't going to plan as the water levels were rising and 2 boats weren't even going on! We ended up leaving as it was far too late for our 1 year old boy! So we never even got to see them.

Prices for food n rides were ridiculous

Will not be going again! Only good thing was the fish and chips which we enjoyed!!!

We travelled 20 miles to see the illuminations or NOT see them should i say! We could not get parked we drove all the way up and back down the strip the multi storey car park was blocked off with cars! We paid online thinking we'd be organised and guaranteed a spot and not wanting to risk no enrty! The organisation surely know a rough amount of cars that can park around the venue but they clearly know what they are doing not giving refunds i think of all the people like us that paid online and had to go back home and all the people that didn't have tickets and got in because we couldn't! Double money in there pockets! There was still plenty of people trying to get parked as we left aswell so they must have made a killing off us all! It should be ticket only so they have a more accurate number of people who can actually get in and see what they have paid for! Had three disappointed kids two of which fell asleep as we headed back because we'd been driving around for so long!

So I wish I was writing an amazing review for this event...believe me I would like to be. Unfortunately it was chaotic, badly organised and a real disappointment for my family. We went all excited to then leave frustrated. Matlock is a gorgeous place and the park looked gorgeous all trimmed up. See trying to give positives. The fun fair is ok for any children under 5. The stalls selling food and drink were ridiculously over priced. The event itself states (on the confirmation I received from booking tickets) that on a Sunday the boat event starts at 7pm. At about 6.55, the compare stated the event wouldn't run as normal due to weather conditions on the river.....the boat event didn't actually start until after 7.30pm, by this time lots of children around me including my own were very very bored. I know it will be said that there was a super hero event happening, but this could only be seen by a minority of the crowd. We decided to leave earlier than planned due to the event starting late and the poor show of the boats ( the boats were amazing, so will give credit there), we could only just manage to get back across the river as the bridge was blocked solid with people, nd the stewards seemed to have disappeared. I really think you need to have a 're think about future events...and the way things are organised. I would hate to think other families were left disappointed in a way that we were.

We had a great time on Saturday, the boats were really impressive. We had a good spot to see everything on the Lovers Walk side of the river but it soon got busy so I'd recommend either getting in place early or waiting until 8pm (ish) when the main crowd seemed to rush to get back to the bridge and the pathway was pretty clear. Plus there are two ways in and out so don't just follow the crowds

Many people complaining about car parking that obviously didn’t experience the wonderful free car park with optional bus service at good value at £2 per person return! The boats were fewer than previous years but the standard was a lot higher. We arrived early to enjoy the facilities before the crowds arrived and had some mediocre hot dogs but later had fish&chips near the aquarium which were very nice. This event has limited space and crowds are expected so if you don’t like crowds,then don’t turn up! The event clearly states fireworks at 9pm so if that is too late for your kids then go home and don’t moan about it. Really enjoyed this on Sat evening and will go back next year (and very likely for years after).

Lovely family event. We have been several times this year. Much quieter and relaxed in September than October, so would suggest going to the earlier ones.

Nice atmosphere, boats very well presented, kids loved the Ninky Nonk and lego car.

Food pricey, but very good value fish and chips available on the main street just outside of the gardens.

Fire and glow show was entertaining. Fairground seems very cramped and having to buy tokens is a bit inconvenient. Queue system seems non existent.

Our kids had a lovely time and we are already looking forward to seeing next years boats!

Loved the up to date themes of the illuminated boats, clearly a lot of time and effort went into them. Great fireworks. Park and ride was totally painless. Yummy fish and chips before going to the gardens. There was more inside the gardens than I had expected! Prices were what you'd expect for an event such as this. It rained all night pretty much but the show went on and didn't dampen our spirits at all! Was busy which we expected and was nice to see but it wasn't as bad as I had anticipated. Had a really lovely evening and at a very reasonable, affordable price. Thank you! Would recommend and come back. It makes me happy that in times of budget cuts etc the council continues to support and run this fantastic event. Please don't give it up after 120 years.

I came tonight with my hubby n 3 year old son. We had a lovely evening. We will definitely go again. Very talented people with their gorgeous boats, my son enjoyed the rides and we enjoyed the fireworks too. We had a lovely evening! The stewards was very helpful and polite. To all the moaners out there, don't go to busy events if you don't like them for God sake. I've read the comments and omg it's a family night out so bloody enjoy it. Don't expect things for free!! Does it matter how much things cost, it's the look on your child's face what you should be thinking of n how much they r enjoying the rides. Stay in and be boring! Rant over!! Definitely use park n ride too. My family enjoyed our night out in Matlock! Thank you to all the organisers of the event. See you next year! �

A wonderful evening even though the British weather tried to spoil it. The boats looked amazing and the people that create them deserve a lot of the credit as they must put a lot of time and effort into them. I was a little disappointed that there were so many food stalls as this must take business away from the shops on the main street. Lovely fish and chips before we went in and took some great photos. Highly recommended for all the family.

We were here yesterday for the final day. We came on the train from Derby (£18 return for 2 adults 2 children) and started the day with The Heights of Abraham, total of £43 (20% off if come on the train) which includes the ride up and down in the cable cars and entry to the 2 caves.

After doing everything up there, which was really good, we came down for a few drinks at the pubs and a look around the shops before heading to the illuminations.

Masses of people which was expected, although sometimes this made it difficult to get to where you wanted to go. Had a mooch around and kids (13 and 10) went on 1 ride (rides are mainly for young children). Found a spot at the other side of the river to wait for the boats about 25 mins before the start time and boats were on time. We were all very impressed with the boats. Couldn't hear the commentary very well from over the river though. Dashed (I say dashed but more like waddled like penguins) back to the bandstand to catch the second fire and glow show which was enjoyable to watch and then waited for the fireworks which were great!! Managed to do/see everything, which is always a bonus at these busy events.



Lost a star because of the rip off food, drink and ice-cream vans. £15 for 3 plain burgers!!!! � Very overpriced for what they were!!! If we had time to find something cheaper we would have but needed to get back for the train. Wish we had ate before coming in the park now but we had a late dinner at the cafe up The Heights of Abraham so wasn't quite ready.



Apart from this, we had a great day out.

Great event , well worth the wait and the travel .

My only issue was the parking .

Thanks for the ticket mr civil enforcement officer ��

No marked bays left was basically a free for all and park where you could .

And for the crap parking you punish people or should I say rake money in !!!!!

Spectacular array of illuminated boats.. fantastic firework display however the set out for all the rides was horrendous! Trying to get to the rides was very hard and scary to get through with two young children as everyone had come from the other side of the bridge trying to exit the event. The rides were very close together, there was only one entrance and exit . My child got his belt unclipped by a ride attendant before me or his dad could get to him, he could've fallen and really hurt himself, Before the ride started my partner was told to go behind the barrier due to safety reasons!! I couldn't get through as there was so many people trying to get their children and out other children on! There was no safety precautions put in place at all! As a easy going family who don't often complain.. we was very disappointed of our experience when it came to letting our children on the rides!

My first visit to the Illuminations and, unfortunately, I wa disappointed. The boats were very cleverly designed and the park was lovely however, it felt a bit of an anti climax and money not well spent for 7 boats. The food and drink stalls were ridiculously priced and everything was a bit too cramped together. It’s a shame it’s been confined to that area and isn’t on the promenade anymore.



Staff were lovely and enthusiastic and the organisation was good :) there are probably more boats on other nights but I was disappointed that there weren’t many, nor did they (bar one) have anything to do with the theme :(



All in all my 3 year old enjoyed the rides and it was a nice, different family day out

It's great we loved it had a great afternoon watching the illuminated boats going along the river an watching the entertainment the firework display was wonderful. Had a brilliant day out. Just the parking best to get early.

Bought tickets on line and arrived 2hrs early to make sure we got parked ok and was waiting patiently to secure a good view with my 8yr old grandson and my elderly parents who obviously couldn't stand at the barrier only to be bullied out of the way by people who arrived late and obviously had no manners. We were in the gardens from 5.30pm and were not once asked for our tickets !!! How many had actually NOT bought them as policing it seemed a joke !

Went last night after being disappointed last Saturday with no tickets,, wasn’t happy last night with two small children, waited hour and half for a very disappointing show , wasn’t worth waiting for , and couldn’t understand why we had to wait really , hundreds waited and hundreds went home disappointed ,, no mention of refunds,, and the security or lack of it was disgusting we walked straight through no one asked to see tickets ,, surely knowing the volume of people who had small children security is a must

We went tonight and it was really poor quality we arrived early to get a parking space.No one asked about our tickets which we paid online and when i asked somone who was working during the event said their isnt always people at the gates and not all people pay if they get their early � so in reality we paid and others were walking in for free ???? Also we waited for the superhero guys to arrive they were late which made everything else late so we had to miss the boats as people were getting fractious around us and we had young children with us the prices for the rides are £2 and the games are £3 which are poorly ran on some of them.Who ever was speaking on the stage didnt seem to know what was going on either ??? Sad to say a totally let down � on the plus side we did go a lovely chocolate shop and sweet shop and we had fish and chips which we all enjoyed.

Not sure I will be attending again... stood for an hour and didn't stay for the fireworks, 9pm too late for small children. 7pm better time for the boats, 8pm for fireworks.... boats looked great and clearly a lot of work gone into them but sadly this didn't float my boat.

Where to start! We've just got back from the illuminations, firstly the boats were fab and my 3 kids loved them, the fire works were again fab! Unfortunately the rest of the evening was awful, it was total chaos no organisation what so ever, there were drunks pushing and shoving (to the point where a drunk young man nearly knocked a old lady of the bench she was sat on) trying to cross the bridge from the park to lovers walk was a nightmare and we ended up waiting for 10 minutes just to cross! We've had people barge passed out kids and everything! Way too many people confined to a small space! We will definitely not be returning which is a shame as we love matlock bath!

We went tonight and was hugely disappointed

People were walking in for free when we paid to get in which was unfair! The commentator didn't have a clue what was going off on the night. We were stood for an hour and a half waiting for the boats in the freezing cold for them then to be told it wasn't going to plan as the water levels were rising and 2 boats weren't even going on! We ended up leaving as it was far too late for our 1 year old boy! So we never even got to see them.

Prices for food n rides were ridiculous

Will not be going again! Only good thing was the fish and chips which we enjoyed!!!

We travelled 20 miles to see the illuminations or NOT see them should i say! We could not get parked we drove all the way up and back down the strip the multi storey car park was blocked off with cars! We paid online thinking we'd be organised and guaranteed a spot and not wanting to risk no enrty! The organisation surely know a rough amount of cars that can park around the venue but they clearly know what they are doing not giving refunds i think of all the people like us that paid online and had to go back home and all the people that didn't have tickets and got in because we couldn't! Double money in there pockets! There was still plenty of people trying to get parked as we left aswell so they must have made a killing off us all! It should be ticket only so they have a more accurate number of people who can actually get in and see what they have paid for! Had three disappointed kids two of which fell asleep as we headed back because we'd been driving around for so long!

So I wish I was writing an amazing review for this event...believe me I would like to be. Unfortunately it was chaotic, badly organised and a real disappointment for my family. We went all excited to then leave frustrated. Matlock is a gorgeous place and the park looked gorgeous all trimmed up. See trying to give positives. The fun fair is ok for any children under 5. The stalls selling food and drink were ridiculously over priced. The event itself states (on the confirmation I received from booking tickets) that on a Sunday the boat event starts at 7pm. At about 6.55, the compare stated the event wouldn't run as normal due to weather conditions on the river.....the boat event didn't actually start until after 7.30pm, by this time lots of children around me including my own were very very bored. I know it will be said that there was a super hero event happening, but this could only be seen by a minority of the crowd. We decided to leave earlier than planned due to the event starting late and the poor show of the boats ( the boats were amazing, so will give credit there), we could only just manage to get back across the river as the bridge was blocked solid with people, nd the stewards seemed to have disappeared. I really think you need to have a 're think about future events...and the way things are organised. I would hate to think other families were left disappointed in a way that we were.