Discover Matlock Farm Park - A Top Family Attraction in Derbyshire & Near Derby
Looking for fun things to see and do in Derbyshire or a lively family day out near Derby? Matlock Farm Park in Matlock, Derbyshire, is a fantastic countryside attraction for visitors of all ages, offering interactive animal experiences, play areas, events, pony rides, café dining and outdoor adventures in one vibrant farm setting.
đ Meet & Feed Friendly Animals
Matlock Farm Park brings you up close to a wide variety of animals - from alpacas, wallabies, meerkats and highland cattle to traditional farm favourites like sheep, goats, llamas and rabbits. Throughout the day, there are small animal petting sessions, meerkat talks, wallaby encounters and calf feeding, giving hands-on animal fun and learning for everyone.
đ´ Pony Rides & Alpaca Trekking
The park’s short pony rides are available at weekends and during school holidays (from age 2.5 years), adding an exciting outdoor activity for little ones.
For a memorable experience, you can also join an alpaca trekking adventure - a guided walk with these friendly animals through scenic woodland trails. This immersive activity includes farm park entry so you can enjoy a full day of fun.
đ Year-Round Events & Seasonal Activities
Matlock Farm Park hosts a lively calendar of events that make each visit special. Previous events include:
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Peak District Highland Games: Watch strongman and strongwoman competitions, tractor pulls and Scottish dancing - along with craft stalls, food vendors and animal activities for all ages.
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Fang-tastic Halloween Festival: A spooktacular seasonal event with pumpkin patches, spooky trails, craft workshops, character meet-ups and farm fun.
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Half-Term & Easter Features: From sheep racing, meet-the-reptiles sessions and meet-the-creepy-crawlies talks to themed crafts and indoor play.
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Family Fun Days: Events like wrestling shows, dinosaur fun days and vintage vehicle displays bring free entertainment alongside the usual animal interactions.
These events are included with your farm park entry and add extra layers of fun to your visit.
đ§ Play Areas & Outdoor Adventures
Matlock Farm Park is more than animals - it’s a playtime paradise for kids! The park features:
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The Enchanted Hamlet multi-zone play area with climbing zones, chutes and sand features.
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Rainforest Playcentre, a jungle-themed indoor play barn with slides, nets and toddler soft-play.
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The UK’s largest Jumping Pillow (open in dry weather) and go-kart track for energetic outdoor fun.
These play spaces sit alongside animal pens and open farmland, creating a dynamic outdoor experience where children can burn off energy and explore safely.
â Café, Shops & Facilities
When it’s time for a break, the park has you covered:
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Garden Room Café offers hot meals, snacks and drinks in a friendly setting.
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Rainforest Coffee Shop serves refreshments inside the play barn so adults can relax while kids play nearby.
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Outdoor food huts provide quick snacks and picnic seating across the farm.
Other visitor facilities include free parking, accessible paths, toilets and a gift shop with souvenirs and local treats.
đ Plan Your Visit
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Location: Jaggers Lane, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 5LH - set in picturesque countryside just a short drive from Derby and surrounding towns.
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Opening Times: Typically 10:00–16:30 weekdays and 10:00–17:00 weekends & school holidays, with seasonal variations.
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Animal Fun: Daily scheduled meet-and-greets, feeding sessions and encounters are included with park entry (subject to change).
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Family Friendly: Pony rides, play areas, cafés and regular events make this one of Derbyshire’s go-to family attractions.
đ Why Visit Matlock Farm Park?
Whether you’re planning a family day out in Derbyshire, searching for lively kids’ activities near Derby, or love hands-on experiences with animals and outdoor play, Matlock Farm Park delivers an unforgettable visit. With interactive animal encounters, creative events, play zones and seasonal festivals, it’s one of Derbyshire’s most beloved farm attractions and days out.
Book your visit to Matlock Farm Park today - for fun, animals and adventure in the heart of Derbyshire!
âšī¸ For the most up-to-date information, visit their official website.
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We really hope that you find this website useful in helping you find and plan your day out. Whilst we try our absolute hardest to ensure all of the information is correct and up to date, we highly recommend you call ahead of any planned visit to check opening times and prices etc. We don't want to disappoint anyone! Remember to tag us in on your day out with the hashtag #ThingsDDO!
