Midland Railway Centre makes a great day out with friends or family, with plenty to see of things to see and do. Whether you plan to visit an hour or a full day, you’ll enjoy a visit to Midland Railway Centre.
There are wonderful facilities onsite, where you can go to the café for a bite to eat or bring your own picnic! Why not sit and watch the trains go by and take a stroll around the country park and admire the countryside views? Make sure to check which events are on before visiting, as there are many events that take place at the Midland Railway Centre, such as vintage Steam or historic Diesel Loco. There are also special visits from Thomas the Tank Engine if you’re planning a day out with the kids!
Enjoy a nostalgic trip on one of the heritage trains and get into the heritage railway culture and explore the museums at Swanwick Junction. There are so many walks to explore in the country park, so why not take the dog?
There are so many things to explore at Midland Railway Centre and you won’t be disappointed!
Opening hours
Monday to Sunday 10:00 - 18:00
Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Pricing
Free entry most days.
Train tickets
Adult: £10 to £15.50 (discounts are available for the over 60s)
Child (age 5 to 16): £5 to £7.75
Address
Butterley Station
Ripley
Derbyshire
DE5 3QZ
England
Contact details
01773 570140
www.midlandrailway-butterley.co.uk
2. Staunton Harold Reservoir
Staunton Harold Reservoir is in the heart of the National Forest, between Derby and Burton on Trent. It was also home to an amazing range of industries and also offered many options for secret schooling.
The reservoir is very peaceful with work still being done, to manage and protect the wildlife and landscape. Staunton Harold Reservoir is open all year and is also free to visit. If it’s a nice day, why not visit the reservoir? There is so much to do and see in Derbyshire.
At Staunton Harold Reservoir, there are various leisure activities available such as, bird watching, fishing, sailing, cycling and many countryside walks to explore. Why not take the dog for a walk, or visit with friends? There is so much to do and see in the reservoir.
There is also wildlife to discover, so why not take a relaxing walk along the reservoir and see what wildlife you come across? If you plan to make a day of it, why not pack a packed lunch and have a picnic with friends or family? Staunton Harold Reservoir makes a great day out, so if it’s a nice day make sure to visit!
Opening hours
Monday to Sunday 11:00 - 16:00
Closed Christmas Day.
Refreshment Kiosk (Easter and end of September)
Pricing
Free admission
Address
Calke Road
Melbourne
Derbyshire
DE73 1DL
England
Contact details
01332 865 081
www.stwater.co.uk/my-severn-trent
3. The Heights of Abraham
The Heights of Abraham is in the heart of the Peak District and offers the oldest and most popular days out, showing the natural beauty of the landscape.
The Heights of Abraham first opened back in 1780 and is one of the Park District’s most popular destinations. It is popular with locals and visitors from all over the world, where they can experience amazing underground caverns, exhibitions, shops, cafés and restaurants all with amazing views in the areas of beautiful countryside and woodland.
Recently, the Heights have become famous for their Cable Car system, which is one of the first Cable Cars in the whole of the British Isles. There are also other attractions to do, including Heath and Heaven and Fossil Factory displays where you can explore and learn.
If you’re planning a visit to Derby, make sure to visit The Heights of Abraham. If it’s a nice day, why not take a cable car trip into the countryside and relax in the café and admire the views? There is so much to do in Derbyshire!
Opening hours
11 February to 26 February
Monday to Sunday 10:00 - 17:30
March
Saturday and Sunday 10:00 - 17:30
27 March to 5 November
Monday to Sunday 10:00 - 17:30
Pricing
Adult: £16.00
Senior: £12.80
Child: £11.00
Family of 4: £49.00
Senior Family: £43.00
Additional Child (Per Family): £8
Under 4: Free
Address
Matlock Bath
Derbyshire
DE4 3NT
England
Contact details
01629 582365
www.heightsofabraham.com
4. Elvaston Castle
Elvaston Castle is situated in the first country park in Britain and has been very popular with locals and visitors for over 40 years. Elvaston Castle is a great place to explore and learn about and offers lots of things to do, from events to quiet walks.
There are lots of walks to explore, as well as the formal gardens – so make sure to visit on a nice day! There is an acre of beautiful woodland and lakes to explore, where you can sit down and admire the relaxing views of Evanston Castle and wildlife.
On site, there is a useful tourist information centre, gift shop and tea room, so make sure to relax and sit down with your favourite hot drink and cake!
Opening hours
9am to 5pm during winter hours (October through March). 9am to 8pm during summertime hours (April through September).
Pricing
Free entry to park but car parking charges apply.
Address
Elvaston Country Park
Borrowash Road
Elvaston
Derbyshire
DE72 3EP
England
Contact details
01629 533870
www.derbyshire.gov.uk/leisure/countryside
5. Kedleston Hall
Kedleston Hall is a classic 18th century mansion and has been the Curzon family’s home since the 12th century. There is a wonderful collection of paintings, sculptures and architecture to explore, including Lord Curzon’s Eastern Museum which is full of history and treasures.
There are tours and talks that take place throughout the day and if you would like to know more about Kedleston Hall, you can go on a special tour around the fishing pavilion, stables and grounds!
The grounds at Kedleston are beautifully maintained and include a leisure garden, which is full of naturist’s leisure activities. Why not visit during the summer months and explore and admire the pretty landscaped gardens? You are also allowed to bring the dog, as long as they are on the lead and well behaved.
Opening hours
The Hall is generally open every day from 12.00pm, but please be aware seasonal variations apply. The Grounds are typically open before the Hall opens but please check before setting out.
Pricing
Whole property: Adult: £12.00
Child: £6.00
Family: £30.00
Address
Near Quarndon
Derby
Derbyshire
DE22 5JH
England
Contact details
01332 842191
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kedleston-hall
Top 5 kid’s activities
1. Paint a Pot
Paint a Pot is situated in the craft village at Markeaton Park, in Derby. It offers a wide range of pottery to choose from and decorate, making it a perfect day out for children of any age!
Children and adults alike can choose from mugs, teapots and plates to animals and fairies, so there is something for everyone at Paint a Pot. There are so many colours, brushes, stamps and sponges to choose from – great for showing off your creativity!
Why not paint a keepsake, or paint something for a gift? Kids will love painting with their friends or family so why not take them during the school holidays or the weekend?
Opening hours
Tuesday 11:00 - 15:00, Wednesday to Friday 11:00 - 16:00
Pricing
Pay for what you paint
Address
Markeaton Park Craft Village
Markeaton
Derby
Derbyshire
DE22 3BG
England
Contact details
01332 202652
www.paintapotderby.com
2. The Donnington Grand Prix Collection
The Donnington Grand Prix Collection is full of motorsport history, with 5 halls and over 130 amazing exhibits to explore - It makes the perfect day out for motorsport fans! Why not visit on a weekend, or during the school holidays? There is so much to see at the Donnington Grand Prix, so make sure to visit if you’re in Derby!
Don’t miss out on seeing The Trophy room, where you will be able to discover wonderful items such as race suits and helmets that were worn by Mark Webber and David Coulthard. You can also see Rom Wheatcroft’s personal life achievement awards.
There are so many displays and exhibitions to see at The Donnington Grand Prix Collection, such as road bikes and a remarkable selection of military vehicles such as tanks, jeeps and other rare motorcycles.
The Mclaren Hall has so much to offer, with cars dating from 1966 to present, including Senna’s 1993 European Grand Prix winning car and other amazing F1 cars!
Kids and adults alike will love The Donnington Grand Prix Collection, so make sure to stop by if you’re in Derby! There are so many things to do and see, making it a great day out for everyone.
Opening hours
Daily 10.00am - 5.00pm
Pricing
Adult: £12.00 O.A.P: £10.00 Student: £10.00 Child (6-16 years): £5.00 Family: £25.00 (2 Adults + up to 3 Children)
Address
Donnington Park
Derby
Derbyshire
DE74 2RP
England
Contact details
01332 811027
www.donington-collections.co.uk/#grandprix
3. Markeaton Park
Markeaton Park is perfect for families, as it offers so much open space with many activities and attractions to offer. There is a large play area, which is great for children who have energy to burn off before a picnic in the park.
The events at Markeaton Park include funfairs, an outdoor cinema, guided walks, family arts, crazy golf and much more! There is so much to enjoy at the park, for the whole family to enjoy.
Why not visit one weekend or during the school holidays? It’s a great place to visit for a relaxing dog walk or an event. There is also an outdoor swimming pool, which is open from May to September!
Opening hours
Park
Daylight access
Activities
Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 10:30 - 16:30
Boating
Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11:00 - 16:00
Pricing
Free admission
Address
Markeaton Lane
Derby
Derbyshire
DE22 4AA
England
Contact details
01332 293111
www.inderby.org.uk/parks/derbys-parks-and-open-spaces
4. The Climbing Unit
The Climbing Unit offers a fun and adventurous climbing experience, for any age or ability! There are great kids groups with run every week and no experience is necessary, making it perfect for children who fancy an adventure.
The Climbing Unit also cater for large groups and parties, so why not book a party or visit during the school holidays? There is so much to do and see in Derby, so if you’re after an active day out why not stop by at The Climbing Unit? You can even book a family induction, so the whole family can enjoy climbing!
Opening hours
Monday to Friday 10:00 - 22:00, Saturday to Sunday 10:00 - 19:00
Kids' Club
Our Kids' groups run every:
Monday evening:
4:30pm to 5:30pm for the 5 to 7 year olds; and 5.30pm to 7pm for 8 to 16 year olds.
Saturday morning:
10:30am to 11:30pm for 5 to 7 year olds; and 11.30am to 1pm for 8 to 16 year olds.
Pricing
Adults: from £6.50
Kids: £5.00
Concessions: £6.00
Address
Unit 5 Masons Place Business Park
Nottingham Road in Chaddesdon
Derby
Derbyshire
DE21 6YZ
England
Contact details
01332 265864
www.theclimbingunit.com
5. Bounce Revolution
Bounce Revolution is a fun and new way to keep fit, and have fun at the same time! There are many fun activities to get involved in, such as party packages, toddler and under 8’s sessions – A perfect way to have fun with friends or family!
There are many activities that take place at Bounce Revolution such as, Total Wipeout Machine, Ultimate Dodgeball, Slam Dunk and many more. Kids will have an amazing time. Why not relax and have a bite to eat, while the kids are burning off energy with friends? There is so much to do at Bounce Revolution, so why not bring the kids during the school holidays?
Opening hours
Monday to Friday and Sunday 10:00 - 20:00
Saturday 09:00 - 20:00
Pricing
General Bounce: £8.95
Toddler Morning: £5.95
Over 18's Night: from £12.00
Sen Session: £8.95
Under 8's Jump: £8.95
Toddler sessions £5.95
Themed toddler session: £6.95 and includes; socks, bounce, picnic and games.
Free parking, free lockers and socks are included free of charge.
Address
Siddals Road
Derby
Derbyshire
DE1 2PY
England
Contact details
01332 417103
www.bounce-revolution.com
Top 5 restaurants in Derbyshire
1. Cucina
www.cucina.restaurant
01332 346796
26-28 Green Lane
Derby
DE1 1RP
England
2. Fischers at Baslow Hall
www.fischers-baslowhall.co.uk
01246 583259
Calver Road
Baslow
Peak District National Park
DE45 1RR
England
3. Stones Restaurant
www.stones-restaurant.co.uk
01629 56061
1C Dale Road
Matlock
DE4 3LT
England
4. Darley's Restaurant and Terrace
www.darleys.com
01332 364987
Darley Abbey Mills
Derby
DE22 1DZ
England
5. The Lighthouse Restaurant
www.the-lighthouse-restaurant.co.uk
01335 330658
New Road
Boylestone
Ashbourne
DE6 5AA
England