A COUPLE were dubbed “basketcases” when they snapped up the UK’s most bizarre tourist attraction – but now they’re living the dream.
Andrew and Vanessa Pugh were intrigued when they saw an advert for the “most unusual business” 50 years ago – but haven’t looked back since buying Heights of Abraham in Matlock Bath, Derbyshire.
The popular attraction, set in hilltops overlooking the A6, is only accessible by cable car – the first built in the UK in 1984.
It offers guided cavern tours, spas, hilltop park views, woodland trails and adventure playgrounds.
The Pughs told the Telegraph: “We loved the house and had no commitments.
“We liked the idea of an adventure, and had the confidence of youth.”
The pair took over the site in 1974, working tirelessly to clear a “wasteland” of overgrown woodland and gardens while transforming the caves into working order.
They decided to make the plunge after sparking a romance in 1972, Andrew added: “We decided to look for a business where we could work together.
“We had joint assets: Vanessa is an amazing administrator and organiser; I can do practical things.”
Their enormous efforts were proved when they secured funding for the famous cable car in September 1983, and by the following April, it was up and running.
Vanessa said: “We couldn’t do it today. But we had so much support. Our greatest asset is our team of people here.”
They were hands-on when operations were first set up, with Vanessa making cheese toasties while her partner poured pints.
Now, the attraction welcomes visitors to activities and events from a film theatre to heritage trails.
For younger kids, there are children’s playgrounds and the Woodland Corner.
We had joint assets: Vanessa is an amazing administrator and organiser; I can do practical things
Andrew Pugh
Historical and educational tours of the Great Masson Tavern and Great Rutland Cavern also garner rave reviews.
Although Vanessa and Andrew are not as involved on the frontlines today, they still live on-site.
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Andrew added: “Some people think we’re a couple of basket cases, but we still get a thrill.”
“We absolutely love it, never tire of it, I think it’s what keeps us going,” added Vanessa.
“We bought a lifestyle.”
A cable car ticket offers tourists access to The Long View Exhibition, which provides an insight into the site’s 230-year history.
Meanwhile, the Masson Pavilion showcases replicas of period costumes worn by the Georgian, Regency, Victorian and Edwardian guests who visited the Heights of Abraham between 1787 and 1910.
Visitors can also follow a self-guided audio tour of the heritage trails in breathtaking countryside.
We couldn’t do it today. But we had so much support. Our greatest asset is our team of people here.
Vanessa Pugh
Tinker’s Shaft offers some of the best views, once the main access point to the Great Masson Cavern, as a viewing platform over the rolling Derbyshire Dales.
The Victoria Prospect Tower, built in 1844, also provides 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition, five impressive sculptures along the Willow Sculpture Trail capture different eras throughout history.
To stop for refreshments, guests can choose between the Heights’ restaurant, cafe or picnic spots.
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