10 Attractions for Children and the Young at Heart
In order to help you plan your holiday here are some of our favourites...
Little Monkeys Play Centre
Located on Darwin Forest Country Park. The massive indoor play frame includes swings, tubes, sports pitch, 4-lane Astra slide and the only double helix spiral slide in the area. Toddlers have their own soft play and soft ball area. Refreshments available. Special concession rate of £2.50 per child applies to guests staying at Darwin or Sandybrook.
Alton Towers
Britain's best theme park is a perfect day out for the whole family. From Old MacDonald's farmyard for toddlers and youngsters, to the Water park with fun for all. For real thrills it has to be Nemesis, Oblivion, Ripsaw or Submission.
Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath
Since first opening in 1780 the Heights of Abraham has remained one of the Peak District’s most popular destinations. Visit the spectacular underground caverns, stunning views and acres of beautiful woodland. Ride the famous Cable Car - the first of its kind in the whole of the British Isles.
Chatsworth Farmyard and Adventure Playground
Farmyard animals, milking demonstrations, tractor rides. The adventure playground suits children of all ages.
Gulliver's Kingdom, Matlock Bath
A great first theme park for toddlers and plenty to entertain older children too, designed to cater for families with children between the age of two and thirteen. There are rides suitable for all ages, it is situated high above Matlock Bath.
Sherwood Forest and Visitor Centre
Home of the legendary Robin Hood, this 450 acre forest park has lots to do, there is a visitor centre, a nature reserve and the famous Mighty Oak.
Go Ape, near Buxton, or Sherwood Forest
Climb the trees and slide across high wires, crawl through tunnels, cross rope bridges, walk the planks and zip down to the ground! Situated within walking distance of Buxton town centre, also in Sherwood Forest.
Derbyshire's Caves
There are four show caves in and around Castleton – see the Bottomless Pit, the veins of Blue John, or ride in a boat on an underground canal. Visit Poole's Cavern near Buxton for incredible crystal formations, vast chambers and easy access for all ages (www.poolescavern.co.uk)
Matlock Farm Park, near Darwin Forest Country Park
Matlock Farm Park is set in part of a 600 acre working farm, providing a great day out with varied activities for all the family. See the llamas, goats, peacocks, red deer, and pet rabbits. Pony trekking can also be arranged.
Chestnut Centre Otter, Owl and Wildlife Park, Chapel-en-le-Frith
As you walk about the Wildlife Park you'll see some of Europe's largest gathering of otters, 16 species of owls and other indigenous wildlife all in their natural surroundings including, buzzards, pine martens, polecats, foxes, Scottish wildcats and deer. Set in 50 acres of landscaped grounds. Open year round.
Crich Tramway Museum
Crich Tramway Village is a lovingly restored period village that is also home to the National Tramway Museum and its world renowned archives.
