Lovers' Walk - Romantic Derbyshire hiking trail has stunning views of the River Derwent

Derbyshire is an excellent place to get out and explore.

With wonderful walking routes that take you through some of the most scenic parts of the county, it is unsurprising that people in their thousands flock to the county every year, with their backpacks and boots.

One of our favourite walks near Derby, is Lovers' Walk in Matlock Bath, just a short drive from the city.

The Lovers Walks' are a series of pretty footpaths that run along the riverside and up over the cliffs.

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It is a 'Site of Special Scientific Interest' and the woodlands also form part of the Peak District's 'Special Area for Conservation'.

The Lovers' Walks link to Derwent Gardens on the opposite side of the River Derwent by a river bridge built in 1969.

Derwent Gardens hosts the District Council's annual Matlock Bath Illuminations spectacular every autumn.

Wonders of the Peaks says: "The Lovers’ Walks are believed to be the oldest surviving example of a public pleasure ground.

"They have been in continuous use since the 1740s and have enabled generations of visitors to follow the trends set by poets Shelley and Wordsworth, whose writings inspired respect for and wonderment of the beauty of nature."

The wonderful walk is quite steep at points but offers unparalleled views of the River Derwent, Matlock Bath, and the surrounding countryside.

Gemgem2218 wrote on TripAdvisor: "I live just up the road and I haven't visited here in ages so me and my parents went for a walk one Sunday down here and it is breath-taking! So beautiful and peaceful!

"Lovely little ponds with beautiful carp in and a nice play area for the children. I love the history of it as well, reading all the signs of what used to be there and what it used to be. If you're in the area park up and have a lovely stroll down the river!"

Kim O said it is great for couples adding: "Beautiful walk lovely views would definitely visit again. So peaceful even though it was busy. Well worth the visit can't wait to go back."