Things to Do with Kids in the Peak District
Family Days Out Near Peak Edge Hotel
Looking for easy family days out near Peak Edge Hotel? The Peak District is full of walks, caves, farm parks and outdoor adventures for children of all ages. From woodland walks and farm parks to caves, cable cars and heritage railways, there are plenty of ways to get kids away from screens and into the countryside.
Peak Edge Hotel is a peaceful base near the Peak District, giving families easy access to some of Derbyshire’s best child-friendly attractions. Whether you are planning a weekend break, a school holiday stay or a spontaneous day out with the kids, there is something nearby for toddlers, preschoolers, older children and teens.
Why the Peak District Is Great for Children
The Peak District makes family days out feel simple. You do not need to plan a major expedition; even a short walk, picnic, cave visit or farm trip can give children space to run, climb, ask questions and discover something new.
Families can choose from:
- gentle walking routes for little legs
- traffic-free trails for cycling and scooters
- farm parks and wildlife attractions
- caves and caverns for rainy days
- heritage railways and tram rides
- outdoor adventures for older children
It is one of the best places in the UK for parents who want easy, memorable and active things to do with kids.
Easy Peak District Walks for Families
A family walk does not need to be long to be worthwhile. The best family-friendly Peak District walks usually include something fun along the way, such as stepping stones, streams, tunnels, woods or café stops.
The Monsal Trail is ideal for families because it is traffic-free and relatively flat, making it suitable for walking, cycling and pushchairs in many sections.
Padley Gorge is great for woodland exploring, paddling and nature spotting.
Dovedale is one of the most famous family walks in the Peak District, known for its stepping stones and limestone scenery.
Stanton Moor offers open views and shorter routes that work well for children who like to roam.
These walks are perfect for families looking to give their children fresh air at a low cost, or parents wanting to introduce kids to walking and sightseeing in the Peak District.
Chatsworth Farmyard & Adventure Playground
Chatsworth Farmyard & Adventure Playground is one of the best family days out in the Peak District and a great choice for parents looking for active, outdoor things to do with kids near Peak Edge Hotel.
This is perfect for families looking to take animal-loving children on a day out that will keep them engaged. Visitor tip: allow a few hours and bring spare clothes for water play.
Chatsworth Farmyard & Adventure Playground is approximately 20 minutes from Peak Edge Hotel.
Crich Tramway Village
Crich Tramway Village is a great family day out in Derbyshire, combining vintage tram rides with outdoor play, indoor activities and countryside views. Children can ride historic trams through the recreated village street and into open countryside, making it one of the most memorable things to do with kids in the Peak District.
Families can also enjoy the Discovery Depot indoor play area for under-10s, an outdoor play area with swings, a zip wire and climbing equipment, plus the Woodland Walk and Sculpture Trail. Picnic areas and activity backpacks for children aged 3 to 11 help make the visit easier for parents.
Crich Tramway Village is approximately 17 minutes from Peak Edge Hotel.
Matlock Farm Park
Matlock Farm Park is a relaxed, hands-on family day out in Derbyshire, ideal for parents looking for easy things to do with kids in the Peak District. Children can meet and feed animals, join seasonal activities, enjoy pony rides and burn off energy in indoor and outdoor play areas.
The Rainforest Playcentre has slides, scramble nets and a toddler soft play area, making it a useful option when the weather changes. It is a great choice for younger families who want animals, play and fresh air without a complicated day out.
Matlock Farm Park is approximately 6 minutes from Peak Edge Hotel.
Heights of Abraham
The Heights of Abraham is one of the most memorable Peak District attractions for families, starting with a cable car ride over the Derwent Valley to the hilltop park. Once at the top, children can explore caverns, follow kids’ trails, enjoy two adventure playgrounds and take in countryside views.
With underground caverns, indoor exhibitions and outdoor play, it works well as an all-weather day out with the kids near Matlock Bath.
Heights of Abraham is approximately 18 minutes from Peak Edge Hotel.
Peak Cavern and Castleton Caves
Castleton is one of the best places for family days out in the Peak District, with four show caves open to visitors: Peak Cavern, Speedwell Cavern, Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Mine. Each offers something different, from dramatic cave entrances and underground passages to boat trips, fossils, stalactites and Blue John stone.
Caves are a great choice for parents looking for things to do with kids in the Peak District when the weather is wet, giving children an adventure that feels exciting, educational and completely different from everyday life.
Rainy Day Ideas for Families in the Peak District
A rainy forecast does not need to ruin your family break. From underground caverns and heritage attractions to cosy cafés and indoor exhibits, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the Peak District when the weather turns.
Peak Cavern and Castleton caves are a memorable option for older children, while Chatsworth House and Farmyard can work for families looking for a mix of indoor and sheltered activities. Crich Tramway Village is another popular choice, combining tram rides with museum-style exhibits and a nostalgic day out.
For a slower-paced afternoon, families can return to Peak Edge Hotel and settle in at The Red Lion Restaurant, a relaxed space for seasonal dishes, local produce and a comfortable meal after a day exploring the Peak District.
Simple Tips for Better Family Days Out
A little planning can make family adventures easier and more enjoyable.
Pack snacks, water, layers and spare socks. Choose shorter routes if visiting with younger children. Give kids something to look for, such as birds, bridges, tunnels, animals or stepping stones. Build in time for breaks, cafés and unplanned exploring. Most importantly, do not feel the day has to be perfect; even a short walk or quick farm visit can become a favourite memory.
The Peak District is ideal because families can keep things flexible. You can plan a full day at Chatsworth, a short walk on the Monsal Trail or a rainy-day cave visit, depending on your children’s ages, energy levels and the weather.
Stay Near the Peak District with Your Family
Peak Edge Hotel gives families a comfortable countryside base for exploring Derbyshire and the Peak District. With family-friendly attractions, walking routes, caves, farm parks and outdoor adventures nearby, it is easy to spend more time outside together.
After a busy day exploring, return to relaxed surroundings, comfortable rooms and seasonal dining at the Red Lion Restaurant.
Plan your family break and discover how easy it can be to enjoy more days out with the kids in the Peak District.
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Peak District Family Days Out: FAQs
- What are the best things to do with kids in the Peak District?
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Some of the best things to do with kids in the Peak District include visiting Chatsworth Farmyard & Adventure Playground, riding the vintage trams at Crich Tramway Village, meeting animals at Matlock Farm Park, taking the cable cars at the Heights of Abraham, and exploring the show caves around Castleton. Families can also enjoy easy countryside walks, picnic spots, cycling trails, and scenic villages across the Peak District.
- Is the Peak District good for a family holiday?
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Yes, the Peak District is a great choice for a family holiday. It offers a mix of outdoor adventures, gentle walks, wildlife, historic houses, caves, farm parks, and family-friendly attractions. There are plenty of activities for younger children, older children, and adults, making it ideal for weekend breaks, school holidays, and longer family stays.
- Where can families stay near Chatsworth House?
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Families visiting Chatsworth House can stay nearby at Peak Edge Hotel, which offers comfortable accommodation within easy reach of Chatsworth, Chesterfield, Bakewell, Matlock, and the wider Peak District. It is a convenient base for families planning days out at Chatsworth Farmyard & Adventure Playground, Chatsworth House, and other nearby Derbyshire attractions.
- What can you do in the Peak District when it rains?
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On rainy days in the Peak District, families can visit indoor and sheltered attractions such as Peak Cavern, the Castleton show caves, Chatsworth House, local museums, cafés, and family-friendly visitor centres. Attractions such as Crich Tramway Village and the Heights of Abraham also offer a mix of indoor and outdoor experiences, making them suitable for changeable weather.
- Are there family-friendly hotels near Chesterfield and the Peak District?
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