The Heights of Abraham

General information

WELCOME TO THE HEIGHTS OF ABRAHAM

Visit the Heights of Abraham in the heart of the Peak District and you will soon discover that the spectacular cable car ride high above the Derwent Valley is just the start of a truly unique, value-for-money day out, as all the attractions are free to access when the cable car arrives at the summit. Since being built in 1984 the cable car system has carried millions of visitors both young and old, yet the cable cars are only one of the latest chapters in the story of the Heights of Abraham. There are also four exhibitions “The Long view”, “Tinker’s Shaft SSSI” “Heath and Heaven” and “The Fossil Factory”, and a spectacularly lit underground tour of the Great Masson Cavern.

Most visitors are surprised to learn that the Heights is in fact the Derbyshire’s oldest tourist attraction, first opening as a Pleasure Ground in 1780 when visitors would make the climb from the valley floor on foot to witness some of the finest views across the surrounding area. The cable cars now mean visitors reach the top without such effort, but the reward is the same as the views remain truly breathtaking. Over two centuries later you are still able to wander around the estate with its zigzag paths and woodland trails and it is easy to understand why the area proved inspirational to the Romantic movement of the period.

Explore underground too! As long ago as Roman times, Lead deposits may have been found in the area but it took another 1000 years before Lead mining was officially recorded on site. These mines were active for over 400 years and left behind a legacy of passageways and awe-inspiring caverns.

Today, thanks to all that hard work you can follow in the miners’ footsteps down the passageways they created, going deep underground into the Heights’ famous Show Caverns. From the glow of a single miner’s candle to the whole cavern being awash with colour-changing lights, the Great Masson Cavern tour is one of the talking points of a visit to this Hilltop Park. Here, where the Equator was once situated millions of years ago, you can learn all about the rocks, minerals and underground formation of the Peak District.

Equally, a visit to the Great Rutland Cavern is well worthwhile. First opened to the public over 200 years ago in 1810, here you meet John the Miner and experience a day in the life of the very miners who made your trip possible.

Those of an inquisitive mind should make sure they visit The Long View exhibition, see and hear our 230 year story about why the estate has been a favorite place to visit for many generations. On the upper floor our Fossil Factory brings to life fun and interesting facts about rocks, fossils and the formation of the Peak District.
Tinker’s Shaft SSSI a spectacular location with a new viewing platform, high above the Derwent Valley and near the exit from the Great Masson Cavern. Interpretative panels provide information on the importance of the site, the natural history, the geology and the labyrinth of lead mines that are below Tinker's Shaft... directly beneath your feet!
Heath and Heaven is a pictorial journey through the Peak District from north to south and shot from the air on a single summer’s day.
Next to this you will find Through the Lens, a 12 minute film of the Great Masson guided tour, ideal for those who cannot, or do not wish to go underground.

Within the grounds are two exciting play areas, Explorers Challenge and Woodland Adventure, where children can burn off some of that energy in a fun and challenging way.

Should you feel hungry, the Treetops Visitor Centre houses the Terrace Café and The Vista Restaurant providing a fresh, bright area in which to enjoy Bites and Platters. We advise that you telephone and book prior to your visit to avoid disappointment as it can get very busy during peak times. Both eateries have picture windows and terraces so you can relax and enjoy a stunning view of Derbyshire before heading off and exploring the rest of the site, or browsing round the gift shops.
Please always check our official website for up to date opening times: www.heightsofabraham.com