What Can I Expect

Derwent river rafting fun! Setting off to explore along the River Derwent has to be one of the best things to do in Matlock. The scenery is stunning, the staff are all brilliant and it's great fun too.

The rafting team knows all the best places to paddle in the Peaks. With that expert knowledge, you’re able to raft all year round on carefully-selected sections of the River Derwent between Matlock and Cromford.

Rafts hold a minimum of four rafters and a maximum of six, with an instructor/guide onboard with you too. We are offering vouchers for two, with a minimum of two vouchers to be bought in order to ensure your raft gets afloat!

Of course, the entry point in the Derwent river won’t be the same as your exit point, but wherever you get in and out of the river along its varied 4.5-mile stretch, you will be transported back to the rafting base at the end of your experience.

So back to your Derwent river rafting. Some of the sections are a gentle paddle, perfect for getting used to the feeling of riding on moving water, practice a few techniques and generally get the gist of the raft. You'll even have time to take in the lovely riverside setting - with wildlife and maybe even a bit of wild swimming if you're up for it too.

Other sections boast moderate (grade 2) Derwent rapids. Watch out for pesky granite boulders in the middle of the river and the occasional eddy on the side (which is where the water flows the opposite way because of an obstacle under the water). You'll all need to all paddle together to ride 'em!

And did we say the setting is stunning? From the River Derwent in your raft, you might get to see well-known sights such as High Tor. Seen from the river, this famous sheer cliff is all the more impressive, as it towers 120m above your heads. Get booked in and let the expert paddlers guide you along the Derwent!

When Is It Available

• Rafting on the Derwent runs on selected weekdays and weekends throughout the year

Suitable For

• Minimum age 6
• All under 18's must be accompanied by a participating parent or guardian
• Maximum weight 22 stone
• Participants must be able to swim and feel confident in open water

Spectators

• Spectators are welcome to watch the departure

Anything Else

• Please note this experience is subject to a minimum of 4 participants attending on the day, in the unlikely event of this not being achieved your date may be re-scheduled. Availability may be limited for those purchasing 2-3 vouchers