Let’s face it, there aren’t many places in the UK that you can take a flight in a cable car. Even fewer that offer more than just jaw-dropping views from the top. But the Heights of Abraham is a day out that packs quite a punch.

Gondola-style cable cars whisk you 554ft up to the summit. Once at the top, there’s a myriad of marvellous stuff. From interactive exhibitions, cool underground caverns, adventure play and woodland walks, as well as a top-notch restaurant that makes the most of those vista views.

And 2024 looks set to pretty special up there, with two shiny new attractions and a whole season of special events. Outdoorsy types will love the gorgeous new woodland walkway and kids will be captivated by a stunning new light show in the Masson Cavern, set to open at Easter. Expect plenty of themed weeks, music and celebrations too, as 2024 marks the 40th ‘birthday’ of the cable cars and 50 years since the current owners purchased the estate.

There’s always something to do, with themed kids’ events, live music and fascinating tours through illuminated caverns underground (set to get even showier this year). Above ground (well above ground in fact, at almost 1,000ft above sea level), you can take a self-guided tour at your own pace and delve into the rich 230-year history of the place – from its mining heritage, its place in the industrial revolution and visits from royalty. Three excellent exhibitions take visitors through the tale of tourism in Matlock Bath, the daring engineering it took to get the cable cars up and running and a peek at the fashions and period costumes of visitors through the ages.

Your day out isn’t done yet. There are 60 acres of woodland trails and park to explore and you can let the kids loose in the awesome adventure playgrounds, with giant slides, climbing equipment and basket swing. Then take a breather and drink in the views (and local tipples) at the Vista Restaurant and Terrace Café. Want the best seats? Book ahead to secure a spectacular view.

Once winter rolls around, the Heights will re-open this year for its very first winter light trail in 22 Nov – 30 Dec– the Lights of Abraham (what else?). Tickets will be in hot demand so watch out for them going on sale around Easter.

Ready? Time to take flight.

Heights of Abraham is open daily between 10-25 Feb, for long weekends (Fri-Mon) through March, then daily from 22 March – 3 November.