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 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 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 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.

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.

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.