2024 marks 40 years since the cable-cars were installed at The Heights of Abraham in Matlock Bath. The popular visitor attraction today receives thousands of visitors each year and the cable cars are used by virtually all of them. Andrew and Vanessa Pugh, the custodians of the popular attraction, will be giving a talk on the story behind the cable-cars and the development of the site at an illustrated presentation being organised by Matlock Civic Association (MCA) on Monday 11th November.

Although the cable-cars are the most well-known feature of the attraction, the Heights themselves have been gradually improved and developed over the past 50 years. It’s hard to believe that the Pugh family acquired the 30 acres of hillside above Matlock Bath back in 1974. Andrew and his family are behind the transformation of the neglected woodland pleasure gardens that had been first developed in the 1700s. As well as the cable-cars there are now two show caves, an exciting play area and a restaurant with spectacular views down the Derwent Valley. Andrew will explain how this has been achieved and perhaps also give a glimpse into the family’s future ambitions.

Andrew Pugh’s talk will be in the downstairs hall at the Matlock Methodist and United Reformed Church on Bank Road in Matlock starting at 7.30pm on Monday November 11th There is no charge and anyone with an interest in the fascinating stories behind the development of ‘The Heights’ will be welcome.

MCA’s Chairman, Tony Symes said… “Most local people know about the facilities at The Heights of Abraham and its famous cable-cars but very few will know how this has been achieved. There are some interesting tales behind what we now simply take for granted. It will be a pleasure to welcome Andrew and Vanessa Pugh and to celebrate this 50-year achievement”.