Percy Rowbottom's photograph of crowds of visitors in North Parade, many of whom would have travelled to Matlock Bath by train.

"Nature was kind to the dwellers in the working regions of the Midlands when she placed Matlock [Bath] in so central a position. The iron workers of the Black Country, the toilers in the dingy streets in the Potteries, the cloth weavers of Yorkshire, and the cotton spinners of Lancashire, are all within from forty to sixty miles of this miniature Switzerland ; and from any of the great four manufacturing districts a Saturday excursion to Matlock and back allows them to explore the many features of the neighbourhood"^[1].

The Peak District of Derbyshire was advertised as ideal for a country holiday visit and the paradise of the artist, photographer and antiquary. There were through express trains between London St. Pancras, Matlock Bath, Matlock and Buxton, with tourist and weekend tickets available. You could buy circular tour or a fortnight's cheap season ticket^[2]. The Midland Railway Company also issued what they described as "a unique series of picture postcards". Tourists could buy six card for two pence^[3].

The newly erected railings on the left hand side of the road separated the Promenade from the main street. A lone policeman is watching the proceedings, perhaps waiting to catch the less than honest trippers who tried to steal from the local shops.

The sign for the Derwent Arcade, centre right, advertises "Novelties" for sale and walking sticks were for sale amongst the goods displayed on the pavement beneath the glass canopy. Several pedestrians were using walking sticks as a fashion item; it was common then but more unusual today. This shop was later Mr. Boden's bakery, grocery and Arcade Restaurant.

On the left is a horse drawn vehicle, probably waiting for passengers who had arrived at Matlock Bath Station. It was a favoured spot for the drivers to tout for business.

References:

^[1] Ward Lock & Co's "Guide to Matlock, Dovedale, Etc.", Illustrated Guide Books of England and Wales (Guide Series 1903-4), Introduction

^[2] "Country Life", 21 July 1906.

^[3] "Irish Times", 11 August 1906. Tours in the Peak District.