Family-Friendly Activities in the Peak District

Are you planning a family trip to the Peak District? With its beautiful landscapes and wide range of attractions, it’s the perfect destination for adventure and relaxation. Keep reading to discover the top family-friendly activities in the Peak District.

1. Family Walks

Explore family friendly walks for all ages and abilities, such as the Bakewell to Chatsworth trail. Starting in Bakewell, this scenic route takes you through beautiful woodland and farmland on the Chatsworth Estate. Look out for local animal life such as sheep, deer and cattle.

Plan your route: Walking in the Peak District

2. Heights of Abraham

Take a cable car ride to the Heights of Abraham. This 60-acre estate features underground caverns, woodland trails and adventure playgrounds for children to explore. There are plenty of picnic spots around the estate or stop by one of the cafés or restaurants to enjoy lunch with a view.

Tickets: £24.50 for adults, £17.50 for children.

Plan your visit: Heights of Abraham

3. Peak Rail Train Ride

Experience the Derbyshire countryside aboard a nostalgic steam train on the Peak Rail line. Children can ride for free on selected dates, making it a great adventure for families on a budget.

Discover more: Peak Rail

4. Chatsworth Estate

A visit to the Peak District isn’t complete without exploring Chatsworth House and Gardens. Wander through its 25 historic rooms and explore the expansive gardens and grounds. Enjoy free access to the 1,000-acre parkland, where you might even spot some of the resident deer roaming the estate.

Plan your visit: Chatsworth House and Gardens

5. Chatsworth Farmyard and Adventure Playground

At Chatsworth, discover a farmyard filled with friendly animals and an exciting woodland adventure playground. Children can enjoy feeding and milking demonstrations, meet the animals and learn about rare breeds.

Book your trip: Chatsworth Farmyard and Adventure Playground

6. Shopping at Peak Village

Visit Peak Village, a laid back shopping village in the heart of the Peak District. Browse a unique blend of well-known brands, independent shops and local makers, then enjoy lunch at Chatsworth Kitchen or Café Massarella. For rainy days, Peak Adventure offers a fun, indoor play centre for children.

Plan your visit: Peak Village

7. Horse Riding

Explore the Peak District’s beautiful landscapes on horseback. Derbyshire Pony Trekking offers family-friendly rides suitable for all skill levels, including forest and sunset treks.

Prices start at £30 per person.

Book your trek: Derbyshire Pony Trekking

8. Peveril Castle Ruins

Visit the historical Peveril Castle perched on a hilltop overlooking the Hope Valley. Hike up to the ruins to learn more about its history, and to take in the breathtaking views.

Tickets: From £7.50 for adults, £4.50 for children.

Book your ticket: English Heritage, Peveril Castle

9. Water Sports and Outdoor Activities with Peaks and Paddles

For adventurous families, Peaks and Paddles offer a range of customised outdoor activities like kayaking, canoeing, caving and abseiling.

Learn more and book: Peaks and Paddles

10. Thornbridge Hall

Explore Thornbridge Hall’s 12-acre gardens and rich history. Families can book a tour of the hall to learn more about its fascinating history and quirky interiors. Outside, children can interact with some of the animals on the smallholding, and play in the ‘mud kitchen’ sandpit. 

Plan your visit: Thornbridge Hall

11. Ice Cream at Thorpe Farm

Visit Thorpe Farm, home to Hope Valley Ice Cream, where guests can explore the farm, meet the animals, and watch the cows being milked. Afterwards, treat yourself to a variety of ice cream flavours, from strawberries and cream to salted caramel, served fresh in their parlour.

Plan your visit: Hope Valley Ice Cream

Make a Stay of It

For your next visit to the Peak District, why not book one of our family-friendly holiday cottages on the Chatsworth Estate? From unique shepherds huts to larger cottages, we have options to suit every family’s needs and budget.