Putting The Peak District on the Map
At Longbow Venues, we’re super passionate about putting the Peak District firmly on the map. The Peak District is the first national park established in the UK and is loved and enjoyed by over 13 million tourists every year.
This coming weekend is a bank holiday and next week is half term. With a few extra days potentially off work, what could you do to amuse yourself in the Peak District?
Family-Friendly Peak District Activities
Dine, Drink & Relax
Don’t forget! Start the day right with a hearty breakfast at The Maynard or The Ashford Arms. Enjoy a spot of lunch in our garden dining areas or how about a delicious evening meal? All made with only locally sourced Peak District produce. Of course, why not make a night of it and rest your head after a busy day exploring at either The Maynard (family rooms available) or The Ashford Arms?
Family Favourites We Love
It can be difficult to know what to do with the kids but there’s so much to enjoy in the Peak District. Here’s a pick of our faves;
Chatsworth House and Farmyard
This historic estate not only offers beautiful gardens and a grand house to explore but also has a fantastic farmyard where kids can meet and interact with animals. There are also adventure playgrounds and organised activities.
The Chatsworth Family Festival
Taking place from May 25 – May 27, from 10am to 6pm, there’s a big top in the gardens and circus themed fun inside! There are trapeze workshops, water super soaker battles, mini Olympics, fighting kites, arts and crafts, bush craft and much more.
The event is included with garden tickets which start at £20 for adults and £10 for children. If you want to tour the house too you’ll need the house and garden ticket which is £35 for adults and £10 for children.
Heights of Abraham
Located in Matlock Bath, this attraction features cable car rides with stunning views over the Derwent Valley. There’s caverns to explore, and play areas with an educational element in the Victoria Prospect Tower and exhibitions on local geology and history. The adventure play areas and fossil factory are particularly engaging for children.
Tickets start at £25 for adults and £17.50 for children. Family tickets start from £77 and under 5s are free.
Gulliver's Kingdom
This theme park in Matlock Bath is specifically designed for families with children aged 2-13. It offers a wide range of rides and attractions suitable for younger kids and is set in beautiful surroundings.
Tickets are priced between £17 and £20 per day during half term. Or why not go from the afternoon and pay only £12.50 if you go after 2pm? Perfect for these lighter summer nights and there are not as many queues for the rides later in the day.
Peak Wildlife Park
Close to Leek, this park allows children to get up close with various exotic and endangered animals like lemurs, wallabies, and more. There’s an interactive origami trail in May called OrigaMAY (clever!) and there are origami workshops too.
Prices start from £20.95 for adults and £18.95 for children.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WALKS
Obviously, it can get a little pricey when you’re paying out for attractions so if you’re looking to keep the budget lower (or redistribute it and enjoy some great food, drink and lodgings with us!) then why not opt for a family-friendly walk?
Longshaw Estate
Distance: Various routes from 1 to 5 miles (1.6 to 8 km)
Managed by the National Trust, the Longshaw Estate offers several easy-to-moderate walks through woodlands, moorlands, and alongside streams.
Padley Gorge
Distance: About 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip.
This much loved local walk follows Burbage Brook through a gorge with rocky outcrops and beautiful woodlands. It's a magical place for kids to explore and paddle in the stream.
Monsal Trail
Distance: Up to 8.5 miles (13.7 km) one way.
This flat, well-maintained trail follows a former railway line you’ll see tunnels and viaducts and stunning scenery. It’s great for walking or cycling with kids. You can choose a shorter section to suit your family's needs.
Great Food, Every Time
Don’t forget to pay us a visit at The Maynard or The Ashford Arms when you visit the Peak District. From our hearty breakfasts to summer lunch and dinner menus, afternoon tea, nibbles and more. We only use local suppliers for the freshest, tastiest flavours of the Peak District. Plus you could stay over with us too in one of our stylish boutique hotel rooms.