The Heights of Abraham – An ideal family day out

Seism!c is a sound and light experience in the Great Masson Cavern at the Heights of Abraham. Visitors encounter it as part of the guided cavern tour.

Visitors in a cavern illuminated with blue light

Traditionally, the formation of the Masson Cavern was explained by a guide, but with projectors, guests can witness a dramatic and visually captivating retelling of key moments in Earth’s history. The show enhances the visitor experience, seamlessly integrating light, sound, and storytelling within the natural rock formations of the cavern.

Visitors watching coloured lights illuminate a cavern

Guided tours of the Great Masson and Rutland caverns are included in a standard cable car admission ticket. See the Heights of Abraham for current opening dates.

Visitors on a guided tour through an illuminated cavern

The show projects a story of the cavern’s formation onto its natural rock walls. The operator says guided tours run at regular intervals throughout the day.

A standard ticket includes the cable car, guided cavern tours, exhibitions, viewpoints, gardens and play areas. Check the operator’s site for special events and their ticket conditions.

Opening dates and seasonal events

2026 opening: The standard season runs from 20 March to 1 November. Skeleton Takeover is advertised for 24 October–1 November. Lights of Abraham is a separately ticketed event from 20 November to 30 December, excluding 24–26 December. The operator says dogs are not permitted at the lights event; contact it about assistance dogs.

Cable cars crossing above the wooded Derwent Valley

Never Visited? Here’s the Top Things to Do at The Heights of Abraham

The Heights of Abraham is one of the UK’s most unique hilltop attractions, famous for its scenic cable cars that provide breathtaking aerial views over the surrounding valley. These iconic cable cars glide over rivers, roads, and railways before reaching the summit of Masson Hill, where history, adventure, and nature await:

  • Take guided tours through the Masson and Rutland Show Caverns.
  • Explore The Long View exhibition, which tells the history of the estate and Matlock Bath.
  • Enjoy a meal with a view at the Vista Restaurant, offering stunning panoramic scenery.
  • Let the kids explore two adventure playgrounds.
  • Wander through beautifully maintained heritage gardens in the 60 acre estate, with sculptures and historic landmarks to discover.
  • Climb the Victoria Prospect Tower.
  • Take home a souvenir from the gift Rock Shop.

Victoria Prospect Tower at the Heights of Abraham

Dining with spectacular views

Enjoy lunch at the Vista Restaurant, a coffee and snack at the Terrace Café, or a drink at The Tavern. The operator says the Tavern holds the area’s oldest beer licence.

Vista Restaurant tables and balcony overlooking the valley

Visitors outside the Heights of Abraham visitor centre

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, the Heights of Abraham offers a memorable and unique day out for all ages.

Tickets and Booking

Advance booking is recommended.

Standard 2026 admission booked online is £27 per adult and £16 per child aged 4–15; children under four are free. On-the-day prices are £29.80 and £18 respectively. Check current prices and ticket conditions. The Lights of Abraham has separate tickets.

Access and parking: The estate has steep paths and the cavern tours have steps and uneven ground. The operator provides accessibility information and says the caverns are not wheelchair accessible. There is no attraction car park; the nearest pay-and-display car park is at Matlock Bath railway station. Check the operator’s opening information before travelling, as conditions can change.

Visit Website

Book Tickets Online

Matlock Bath can be reached by bus or train. Ask the attraction about any available public transport discounts when booking.

The Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath, Derbyshire, DE4 3NT