Animal Attractions in Derbyshire: Best Farms, Zoos & Aquariums for Kids (2026 Guide)
Abbie Coleman is a Derbyshire-based mum of two and the founder of MMB Magazine and Ey-Up. She creates easy-to-read guides covering what’s on for families in Derbyshire, sharing local events, free activities and tried-and-tested ideas that make planning days out simpler for busy mums. Contact us to work with Ey-UP as a business or as a new blogger.
If you’re looking for animal attractions in Derbyshire or planning a day out with kids who love animals, this is one of the easiest ways to keep everyone happy.
From farm parks and petting zoos to aquariums and wildlife parks, there’s loads to do across Derbyshire and the Peak District — whether you’ve got toddlers, older kids or a mix of both.
We’ve pulled this guide together using a variety of real visits, local recommendations and well-loved family favourites, so you’re more than just getting a list — you’re getting what’s actually worth doing.
👉 We have had some great days out, and Matlock Park Farm is always a clear winner, but for Kimi, who is older, he loves Bluebells and Chatsworth’s Playground. And I love Adams Hens, they have worked so hard, and it’s really paid off. A must visit if you keep an eye out for the seasonal activities and the play sessions.
Table of Contents
Last updated: January 2026
We update this guide regularly with new places, seasonal events and local finds across Derbyshire.
⭐ Our Favourite Animal Days Out in Derbyshire
If you just want somewhere tried and tested, start here with our reviews of our days out:
- Chatsworth Farmyard
- Matlock Farm Park
- Thornbridge Hall & Gardens
- Bluebell Dairy
🐐 Farms & Petting Zoos in Derbyshire
Chatsworth Farmyard & Playground
📍 Chatsworth House, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1PP
🌐 https://www.chatsworth.org
💷 £££
🚗 Large on-site car park
A firm favourite for families, with animals you can meet, feed and get close to — plus one of the best playgrounds in the area.
👉 This is a full day out, not just a quick visit.
Matlock Farm Park
📍 Jaggers Lane, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 5LH
🌐 https://matlockfarmpark.co.uk
💷 £££
🚗 On-site parking available
One of the most interactive farm parks locally, with a full schedule of activities like feeding sessions, animal handling and play areas.
👉 Great if your kids like lots going on.
Bluebell Dairy Farm Park
📍 Locko Road, Spondon, Derby, DE21 7AR
🌐 https://bluebelldairy.co.uk
💷 ££
🚗 Free parking
A really popular spot combining animals, play areas and amazing homemade ice cream.
👉 This is a good mix of day out + treat.
Adam’s Happy Hens
📍 Holymoorside, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S42
🌐 Facebook: Adam’s Happy Hens
💷 £
🚗 Small on-site parking
A smaller, more relaxed setup — perfect if you want something simple without the crowds.
👉 Ideal for toddlers.
Matlock Meadows
📍 Snitterton Road, Matlock, DE4
🌐 https://matlockmeadows.co.uk
💷 £
🚗 Free parking
A working farm with animals, plus one of the best ice cream stops locally.
👉 Great as a shorter outing.
Willow Tree Family Farm
📍 Derbyshire (check location before visiting)
🌐 Search locally for latest details
💷 ££
🚗 Parking available
A smaller farm experience with hands-on interaction and a quieter feel than bigger attractions. They have just upgraded the farm shop and have some amazing seasonal events as well as baby and toddler classes.
🐠 Aquariums & Indoor Animal Attractions
Matlock Bath Aquarium
📍 South Parade, Matlock Bath, DE4 3NR
🌐 Often listed via local tourism sites
💷 £
🚗 Nearby public car parks
A slightly quirky but really enjoyable stop, especially with younger kids.
👉 Not huge, but great combined with a Matlock Bath day out.
🦒 Wildlife Parks & Bigger Animal Experiences
Peak Wildlife Park
📍 Winkhill, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 7QR
🌐 https://www.peakwildlifepark.co.uk
💷 £££
🚗 On-site parking
A more unique day out with walk-through animal experiences — including lemurs, wallabies and penguins.
👉 Feels more like an experience than a standard farm.
🦙 Animal Experiences & Unique Days Out
Mayfield Alpacas
📍 Quicksaw Farm, Fulwood Lane, Ringinglow, Sheffield, S10 4LH
🌐 Mayfield Alpacas | Kids Parties Sheffield | Animal Experiences
💷 £££
🚗 Parking available
A lovely, slower-paced experience where you can walk alpacas and spend time outdoors.
Naze View Farm Alpacas
📍 High Peak, Derbyshire
🌐 Search locally for booking
💷 £££
🚗 Parking available
Another great option if you want something a bit different and memorable.
🌿 Smaller & Hidden Animal Experiences
Thornbridge Hall & Gardens
📍 Thornbridge Hall, Baslow road, Ashford-in-the Water, Derbyshire
🌐 Thornbridge Estate
💷 Book in advance for reduced tickets
🚗 On-site parking
A really lovely stop with lots for young kids to do, especially in summer, with the games in the garden or to go exploring in the gardens and find the hidden play areas or fish the ducks out of the fountain. They have a small animal enclosure area with three pens.
👉 One of those places that feels simple but works really well with younger kids.
Blaze Farm
📍 Wildboarclough, near Buxton, SK11
🌐 https://blazefarm.com
💷 Free entry (pay for extras)
🚗 On-site parking
A really lovely stop with animals, nature and incredible homemade ice cream.
👉 One of those places that feels simple but works really well.
Pomeroy Farm
📍 Near Buxton / Bakewell
🌐 Local listings / maps
💷 £
🚗 Parking available
A working dairy farm with animals, picnic space and a quieter feel.
📍 Animal Attractions Near Me in Derbyshire
If you’ve searched for:
- animal farms near me
- places to see animals Derbyshire
- things to do with kids near me
This guide covers:
- Chesterfield
- Bakewell
- Matlock
- Buxton
- Peak District villages
👉 Everything in one place.
💛 Why Animal Days Out Work So Well
Animal attractions are one of the easy wins with kids.
They support:
✔️ confidence
✔️ curiosity
✔️ sensory exploration
…and they’re usually more relaxed than structured activities.
🗓️ Easy Day Out Idea
- Morning → animal attraction
- Lunch → café or picnic
- Afternoon → play or walk
👉 Simple, but always works.
📣 Want Your Venue Featured?
👉 Get in touch to be added at abbie@ey-up.co.uk
⚠️ Before You Go
Details can change depending on the season.
👉 Always:
- Check before setting off
- Confirm opening times
- Book where needed
Final Mum Take
Some of the best days out aren’t the biggest or most expensive — they’re the simple ones where the kids can explore, see animals and you can actually enjoy it too.