Percy Rowbottom's photograph of crowds in North Parade.

"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 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.

References:

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