The Old Lock Up Gallery

A former police cell block turned art space - that's the curious draw of The Old Lock Up Gallery in Matlock. The building's history as an actual lock-up gives it real character, and the conversion to gallery use means you're viewing contemporary work inside walls that once held prisoners. It's the sort of place that works precisely because of what it was.

Inside, you'll find rotating exhibitions of local and regional art - painting, sculpture, mixed media, the usual gallery fare. Nothing groundbreaking, but it's done with genuine care rather than pretension. The intimate scale means you won't spend hours here; thirty minutes to an hour covers it comfortably, depending on what's on. Art enthusiasts and anyone interested in local creative work will find it worthwhile. Families with older kids who don't mind a quick art stop will be fine; younger ones might get restless fast.

It's free to pop in and have a look, which removes any pressure to justify the visit. Matlock itself is compact enough that you can combine this with a walk along the river or up to Matlock Bath without much effort. If you're camping at Lickpenny Matlock or Packhorse Farm nearby, it's a natural rainy-day option. Worth the detour? Only if art's your thing or you're already in town. Don't go out of your way, but if you're passing, give it ten minutes.