Top 26 Things to Do in Matlock With Kids 2025
Looking for the best things to do in Matlock with kids in 2025? Whether you’re planning a school holiday adventure or a sunny weekend out, Matlock is packed with family-friendly fun – from thrilling theme parks to nature walks and interactive museums.
We’ve updated our 2025 guide with opening info, current prices, and new family tips for toddlers to teens. These tried-and-tested ideas are ideal for Derbyshire locals and day-trippers alike – and yes, we’ve done many of these with our own kids!
Got a hidden gem to add? Email us at abbie@mmbmagazine.co.uk – we love featuring your family favourites.
Matlock is a fantastic destination for families with kids, offering many exciting activities to enjoy together. Start your day with a visit to Hall Leys Park, where children can run freely in the expansive green spaces, play on the playgrounds, or take a leisurely boat ride on the boating lake. For a dose of adventure, head to Gulliver’s Kingdom, an exhilarating theme park nestled in the hills above Matlock Bath, offering rides, shows, and attractions suitable for all ages. Afterwards, explore the fascinating depths of the Heights of Abraham, where a cable car ride provides breathtaking views of the Derwent Valley, followed by underground tours of the historic caverns. Wrap up your day with a visit to Matlock Farm Park, where kids can get up close and personal with various farm animals, enjoy tractor rides, and engage in hands-on activities. With its blend of outdoor adventures, amusement parks, and animal encounters, Matlock promises a memorable day for families seeking fun and excitement.
Table of Contents
Top 20 things to do in Matlock with kids 2024
Read our list below of the best and most exciting things to do in Matlock for a great family day out, rain or shine.
1/. Gulliver’s World Matlock
Temple Walk, Matlock Bath DE4 3PG
Price: Adults & Children £25 but you can pre-book for £19.00, Under 90cm
Find out more about Gullivers World Matlock
It is a great day out with unlimited rides, leaving you so much to do, and you can easily spend the whole day with lots of fun things to do, from log flume water rides to rollercoasters at this theme park. Be prepared for the steep walk, as this attraction is based up the hill with some great views. There are plenty of flat areas, but be aware if you have a little one and a pushchair. It does look unloved in places, but it only takes away a great day out and many rides for small children to feel involved. Please read the review of our day out at Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock.
2/. Matlock Farm Park
Prices; Adults £11.95, Child 4 to 14 £9.95, Toddlers 2-3 £7.95, Under 2s free
It’s a firm favourite and popular attraction for the whole family, and watch out for special events throughout the year. Feed the meerkats an egg, visit the animal petting section, or walk amongst the wallabies. There is so much to do, including some fab adventure playgrounds, and it keeps growing and improving every year. It is a firm favourite with most Derbyshire families and must be on your top 3 things to do in Matlock. Although a short drive away, you need a car to get to this location, and there are no buses. They have also launched pre-booking online now, so take your time! Book Matlock Farm Park.
3/. Deception Escape rooms
Prices: £20 per person
Fun for the whole family. Can you escape the deception room? There are four rooms in total you can choose from. For children aged eight years and over, it is a great fun attraction to while away an hour on a rainy day. Book Deception Escape Rooms
4/. Peak Rail
Price: All day ticket adult £13.00, Child 3yrs to 15 yrs £5.00 Under 3yrs free
Experience a steam train ride. The line forms part of the old Midland Railway line between Manchester Central and London St Pancras, which was closed in 1968. Keep an eye out for some significant seasonal events that get put on, along with things to do in the Matlock event guide at Peak Rail. Visit Peak Rail heritage railway and steam train.
5/. National Stone Centre
Price: No Charge
Are you looking for a free day out? Why not pay a visit to the National Stone Centre, run by volunteers? It’s a great day outdoors with some lovely walks with outdoor fossil trails to follow, a child play area, regular guided tours, geo, walks and picnic areas. Remember to drop into the gift shop to support a great venue. Visit the National Stone Centre
6/. Crich Tramway Village
Price: Adult £22, Child 4yrs to 14yrs £14.00 Family tickets available and tickets are for 12 months.
Go back in time with the National Tramway Museum, taking a ride on vintage trams, running alongside a period street while climbing up a mile and a half of track. Why not set foot on the Woodland Walk and Sculpture Trail, which takes you back down to the village, or stay on the tram and be dropped off at The Red Lion Pub and Tearooms? There are good picnic and outdoor play areas, and it is a great place to spend the day. Remember to visit The Great Exhibition Hall as well. You can see the tram history from horse to electric on your things-to-do list in Matlock. Visit Crich Tramway Village
7/. Matlock Bath Aquarium
Price: £3.80 Each and under 4yrs free
It is a lovely, beautiful Victorian building that houses an aquarium, too. It is based right in the centre of Matlock. It is one of Europe’s largest public displays of Holograms, along with the famous thermal water pool home to Carp. It also hosts the only remaining ‘Petrifying well ‘in Matlock Bath and a fossil display. Book Matlock Bath Aquarium. Enter via the arcade.
8/. Heights of Abraham
Price: Booked in Advance Adult £23.50 Child 5yrs to 15yrs £19.00
Why not take a cable car ride that takes you to panoramic views of Derwent Valley? Take a tour around the Massons Cavern or Rutland Cavern, which formed over 350 million years ago. Visit the Heights of Abraham.
9/. Peak District Mining Museum
Embark on a captivating journey through Derbyshire’s mining history at the Peak Mining Museum! Delve into the compelling stories of resilient families who depended on this demanding profession. Experience the thrill of panning for gold in the depths of the Temple mine. Secure your spot at our museum and discover the region’s rich heritage.
Admission:
- Adult: £12
- Child: £6.00
Please explore our website, www.peakminingmuseum.com, for more details and to book your immersive experience.
10/. The Play Mill
Suppose you are looking for a soft play pit stop to tire out the kids as one of your things to do it, Matlock. An indoor play centre for under nine years! Including a vast sand pit, sensory room, ride-on bikes,
Check out The Play Mill.
11/. Sir Richard Arkwright’s Masson Mills
Price £7.50 Per person
Although it now hosts a conference centre, you can still visit the museum. Masson Mills houses a fascinating collection of authentic historic textile machinery dating from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. Find out more on Masson Mills.
12/.Cromford Mills
Price: £12.50 and Under 16s free
Why not book a guided or audio tour around Cromford Mills to discover more about the Cromford story and Sir Richard Arkwright? Find out more about Cromford Mills here. Visit Cromford and the Cromford Canal in the Derwent Valley, an excellent destination for exploring the World Heritage Site. Cromford is a village on the southern edge of the Peak District. Look out for the Old Lock Up, which used to be the jailhouse but is now a contemporary art gallery.
13/. Lumsdale Valley
Price: Free
It’s a beautiful hidden gem with only a few signposts, so most may need to see this stunning location. The Matlock waterfall, pools, and ruins along the Lumsdale Valley make for a beautiful walk, and it’s so photogenic too. Please find out more about Lumsdale Valley and its walks.
14/. Amusement Arcades
Price: Dependent on the spend
You must attend the amusement arcade at the front as you walk through Matlock. Why not spend an afternoon in the parks and arcades and finish off with the famous fish and chips and ice cream?
15/. Matlock Meadows
Derbyshire, UK. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience farm life while enjoying delicious homemade ice cream.
The farm is home to a herd of dairy cows that graze on the lush pastures surrounding the property. Visitors can often watch the cows being milked and learn firsthand about the dairy farming process. This interactive experience provides insight into where dairy products come from and the care that goes into producing them.
One of the highlights of Matlock Meadows is its ice cream parlour, which serves up a tempting array of ice cream flavours made on-site using fresh milk from the farm. From classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous flavours like salted caramel and raspberry ripple, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
In addition to ice cream, Matlock Meadows also offers a selection of homemade cakes, desserts, and light refreshments in addition to ice cream, making it a popular destination for families and ice cream enthusiasts.
With its picturesque countryside setting and delicious dairy treats, Matlock Meadows provides a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether enjoying a scoop of ice cream or exploring the farm, it’s a delightful destination in Derbyshire. Find out more about Matlock Meadows here.
16/. Lea Gardens
Price: Adult £7 , Child £1
Lea Gardens in Matlock, Derbyshire, is a delightful garden attraction renowned for its picturesque setting and stunning floral displays. Situated in the village of Lea, near Matlock, Lea Gardens offers you a tranquil escape into nature, well, not so quiet if the kids are in tow!
This charming garden spans over three acres and features a diverse range of plants, flowers, and trees, meticulously arranged to create a beautiful and serene environment. Visitors can wander through winding pathways, meander alongside streams, and relax on benches nestled amidst the greenery.
One of the highlights of Lea Gardens is its impressive collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, which burst into vibrant blooms during the spring months, painting the landscape with pink, purple, and white hues. Additionally, the garden boasts a variety of other plants, including camellias, magnolias, and ferns, ensuring there is something to admire year-round.
Lea Gardens also offers a tearoom where visitors can indulge in refreshments, including homemade cakes and light lunches, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon outing.
17/. Hall Leys Park
Price: Free
One of the highlights of Hall Leys Park is its stunning riverfront location along the banks of the River Derwent. The river meanders through the park, offering scenic views and river walk opportunities. Bridges cross the river, adding to the charm of the park’s landscape.
For families, the park offers a variety of amenities and attractions, including playgrounds, a miniature railway, and a boating lake. Children can enjoy climbing structures, swings, and slides, while adults can unwind on benches or enjoy a game of tennis on the park’s courts.
Hall Leys Park hosts events and festivals throughout the year, such as outdoor concerts, craft markets, and seasonal celebrations, adding to its vibrant atmosphere and community spirit.
Children’s paddling pool – open April to October, Boating lake, Miniature railway, Skateboard park, Tennis courts, Outdoor market (Wednesdays), clock tower and bandstand.
18/.Black Rocks
Price: Free
Fancy a hike or walk through some beautiful views to tire out the kids? Black Rock is a prominent geological feature near Matlock in Derbyshire, England. It is a large, dark-coloured outcrop of millstone grit rock that rises dramatically from the surrounding landscape. You can enjoy hiking trails that wind through the countryside, offering panoramic views of the Derbyshire Dales and the Peak District National Park. The site is viral at sunset when the warm hues of the evening light cast a beautiful glow over the landscape.
It’s a trendy walking spot. Find out more here on Black Rocks walks.
19/. Upper Derwent Valley
Another great day out and about. The Peak District National Park’s Upper Derwent Valley is known for its majestic reservoirs, spectacular scenery, peaceful forests, and wild open spaces. In World War II, the similarity between the Upper Derwent Valley and the Ruhr Valley of Germany led to the dams being used for practice runs for the Lancaster bombers of 617 Squadron (the Dam Busters also filmed here) before they attacked the Ruhr dams. Find Out More on Upper Derwent Valley.
20/. The Grand Pavillion
Initially built in the late 19th century, The Grand Pavilion has served various purposes, including hosting concerts, theatrical performances, and social events. Its distinctive Victorian architecture and ornate detailing make it a notable landmark in the area.
Today, The Grand Pavilion continues to be a hub for cultural and community activities. It hosts various events throughout the year, including live music performances, art exhibitions, craft fairs, and more.
The Grand Pavilion is an unusual arts and entertainment venue located on the edge of a Derbyshire World Heritage Site in the beautiful village of Matlock Bath. It is rescued and operated by a charity made up of local people. Check out what events are on when you look to visit. Look at events for the Grand Pavillion.
21/. Matlock Bath Treasure Trail
Price: £9.95
It’s a great way to get the kids out and walk. Purchase the treasure trail online. Trails include A detective mystery-themed walking Treasure Trail around Matlock Bath. It is approximately 1.4 miles, taking 1.5 hours. Suitable for 6yrs and above,
22/. Rapid Horizons Matlock
Price: Dependent on the activity
Kayaking, canoeing, white water rafting, paddleboarding, tubing, climbing. You name it, they do it from:
- White Water Rafting: Experience the rush of navigating through turbulent rapids and cascading waves with white water rafting trips on the River Derwent. Led by experienced guides, these excursions provide an exhilarating adventure for thrill-seekers of all levels.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the scenic waterways of Derbyshire with kayaking and canoeing trips guided by skilled instructors. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced paddler seeking new challenges, Rapid Horizons offers paddling adventures on calm rivers and challenging rapids.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Discover the tranquillity of gliding across the water on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) excursion. Perfect for individuals or groups, SUP trips allow participants to enjoy the beauty of Derbyshire’s rivers and lakes while engaging their core muscles and improving balance.
- Canyoning and Gorge Walking: For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Rapid Horizons offers canyoning and gorge walking adventures through rugged terrain and natural water features. Explore hidden gorges, scramble over rocks, and leap into crystal-clear pools under the guidance of experienced guides.
So, if you’re feeling the need for adventure, book in with Rapid Horizons.
23/. Arc Leisure Centre
Are you looking to take the kids for a swim, or is the weather not so good? If you are in the half term, check out the timetable for some fun water activities. Or you’re looking for a soft play. Either way, Arc Leisure Centre is worth a look.
24/. Matlock Bath Illuminations
Price: TBC each year
Matlock Bath Illuminations is a fun-packed family event featuring a spectacular parade of illuminated and decorated boats along the River Derwent.
During the 7-week season, Matlock Bath Venetian Boat Builders’ Association decorates themed models with various coloured lights. The models are mounted on rowing boats and paraded on the River Derwent each Saturday in September and October in Derwent Gardens, giving a unique and luminous display. The boats can only be viewed on admission into the gardens.
25/ Derwent Gardens
Price: Free except when the Matlock Bath Illuminations are on.
Derwent Gardens are formal gardens located on the southern side of the Pavilion in Matlock Bath, overlooking the River Derwent. It is also the location of Derbyshire Dales District Council’s popular annual Matlock Bath Illuminations event.
26/. Lumsdale Falls
Lumsdale Falls’s highlight is undoubtedly its cascading waterfalls, which tumble down moss-covered rocks amidst a backdrop of ferns and ancient trees. You’re looking at about a 2.5hrs walk through lanes and field paths with some uneven terrain.
Visitors to Lumsdale Falls can enjoy leisurely walks along well-marked trails, taking in the valley’s scenic beauty and discovering hidden gems around every corner. It’s a perfect spot for a family outing, a romantic stroll, or a peaceful moment of reflection amidst nature’s splendour.
We hope we inspired you with some top things to do in Matlock. If we have missed anything, let us know. And check out our top days out in East Midlands blog.
# Top 26 Things to Do in Matlock With Kids 2025