🏞️ The Ultimate Family Guide to Days Out in Derbyshire (2025 Edition)
As a local Derbyshire mum of two (Eliza and Kimi!), I know the difference between a day out that works and one that ends in tears, forgotten snacks, and a meltdown in the car park. 🙈
That’s exactly why I created this guide—it is full of tried, tested, and actually enjoyable days out for families living in or visiting our beautiful county.
We’ve done the walking trails, tackled the soft plays, and even braved the Easter egg hunts in the rain so you don’t have to guess what’s worth it. It’s a mix of real-life experience and local knowledge, written from a working mum juggling life just like you.
If you’re looking for fun, low-stress things to do with kids in Derbyshire (with coffee stops and toilet access a given), I’ve got you covered.
💡 And don’t forget to check out our sister site, Ey-Up.co.uk — it’s packed with family events, local trails and activity guides for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, all written by real parents for real parents.
Table of Contents
🍽️ Pubs with Play Areas in Chesterfield
Sometimes, you just need to chat with another adult without someone hanging off your leg. These pubs have decent food, a relaxed vibe, and space for the kids to burn off energy.
👉 5 Best Pubs with Play Areas in Chesterfield
🧸 Soft Play in Derby & Chesterfield
Soft play is my go-to in winter or after a chaotic school run. These are the places I’ve gone back to more than once—they’re clean, safe, have decent coffee, and are manageable for toddlers and older ones.
👉 Top Soft Plays in Chesterfield
🥪 Afternoon Tea That’s Actually Kid-Friendly
These spots make amazing afternoon teas (yes, even with fussy eaters in tow). Think babyccinos and picky plates, and you get to enjoy cake while it’s still warm.
👉 Afternoon Tea in Chesterfield
🌾 Derbyshire Farm Shops the Kids Will Love
My two love a good mooch around a farm shop — especially if a café and a cheeky play area is involved. These are our favourites for fresh air, food, and a little local shopping on the side.
👉 Best Farm Shops in Derbyshire
🎅 Where to See Santa in Derbyshire
We’ve done most of these ourselves (sometimes more than once!). Whether after full-blown grotto magic or something low-key, here’s your guide to Santa spots across Derbyshire.
👉 Where to See Santa in Derbyshire
🍽️ Kids Eat Free (or £1!) in Derbyshire
This guide is a lifesaver during the holidays. We all know how pricey family meals can be, so I’ve gathered everywhere that offers a free or discounted kids’ menu—and yes, I’ve actually eaten at these places, too!
🐣 Easter Fun in Derbyshire
We love a good egg hunt, especially when it includes crafts and hot chocolate at the end. These are our favourite Easter events from across Derbyshire—tried, tested, and suitable for all ages.
🏰 Hardwick Hall – Big Space, Big Adventures
Hardwick Hall is one of those places we always end up going back to — loads of space for the kids to run wild 🌳, a brilliant woodland play trail 🧡, and just enough history to make it feel like a proper Derbyshire day out. Kimi loved charging around the gardens pretending he was on a quest, while Eliza was all about finding the biggest stick she could! 😂 There’s a great café on site, plenty of picnic spots, and beautiful views — just pack the wellies if it’s been raining! 👣
🌳 Thornbridge Hall with Kids
This one took me by surprise. It has gorgeous grounds and plenty of space, and the kids loved spotting the sculptures. It’s a peaceful one for when you need a break from the chaos.
👉 Thornbridge Hall Brewery Review
🎡 Gulliver’s Kingdom, Matlock Bath
We’ve been more than once. It’s fab for little ones and not overwhelming like the massive parks. Everything’s made for under 12s, which takes the stress out of the day.
🚂 Family Day Out in Matlock and Matlock Bath
Cable cars, the river walk, and proper chips. We’ve spent whole days here and never run out of things to do. There is a great mix of free fun and exciting extras.
👉 Matlock & Matlock Bath Guide
👣 Monsal Head Walk with Kids
This walk is ideal for properly stretching your legs without a full-on hike. It offers beautiful views and a lovely pub at the end for bribes—I mean, rewards!
🔁 Stay in the Loop
I’m always updating Ey-Up.co.uk with new things to do, especially during the holidays. It’s your one-stop for free family trails, local events, and mum-approved days out across Derbyshire and Notts.
📸 Follow Our Real-Life Days Out
I share the good, the bad, and the ‘we forgot the wipes’ moments over on Instagram: