Ultimate Guide for Mums to Wildlife Parks, Aquariums, Farms, and Zoos in Derbyshire
Are you a mum looking for an engaging, fun-filled day out with the family in Derbyshire? This guide covers everything you need to know about the top wildlife parks, aquariums, farms, and zoos in the area. From essential tips to birthday party options and best times for deals, we’ve got it all covered.
Table of Contents
Does Derby have a zoo?
While Derby itself doesn’t have a zoo, there are several fantastic options nearby in Derbyshire and the surrounding areas. Here’s a comprehensive look at some of the best spots in and around Derbyshire.
Matlock Farm Park
Location & Contact
- Address: Jaggers Lane, Near Two Dales, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 5LH
- Website: Matlock Farm Park
- Price: ££
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
Matlock Farm Park offers a great mix of farm animals, play areas, and outdoor activities. The park is home to a variety of animals including meerkats, llamas, and wallabies. Kids can enjoy pony rides, tractor rides, and an adventure playground.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer to enjoy outdoor activities.
- Deals: Check their website for seasonal discounts and family tickets.
- Birthday Parties: Yes, Matlock Farm Park offers birthday party packages that include animal encounters and playtime.
Peak Wildlife Park
Location & Contact
- Address: Winkhill, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 7QR (near the Derbyshire border)
- Website: Peak Wildlife Park
- Price: ££
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
Peak Wildlife Park allows visitors to walk among exotic and endangered animals from across three continents. With a large variety of animals such as lemurs, penguins, and meerkats, it’s an immersive experience for the whole family.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid the weekend rush.
- Deals: Annual passes offer great value for regular visitors.
- Birthday Parties: Yes, they offer unique birthday party experiences with guided tours and animal encounters.
Matlock Bath Aquarium
Location & Contact
- Address: 110 North Parade, Matlock Bath DE4 3NS
- Website: www.matlockbathaquarium.co.uk
- Price: £
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4 out of 5
The Aquarium and Exhibitions in Matlock Bath are housed in a charming Victorian building in the town center within a busy arcade.
Offering a unique and enjoyable experience for the whole family. Its not a massive venue but if its raining and your in Matlock its worth a dip in. The kids love the light hallway, but its a quick walk round and quite basic. Highlights include:
- An Aquarium with over 50 species of fish
- One of Europe’s largest public hologram displays
- A Thermal Pool home to a famous Carp collection
- The only remaining petrifying well in Matlock Bath
Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre
Location & Contact
- Address: Woodsetts Road, North Anston, Sheffield, S25 4EQ (close to Derbyshire)
- Website: Tropical Butterfly House
- Price: ££
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
This centre features a variety of attractions including free-flying butterflies, exotic birds, reptiles, and meerkats. The falconry centre offers bird of prey displays, and there’s a farm animal area where children can interact with goats and sheep.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for the best weather.
- Deals: Family tickets and seasonal discounts available.
- Birthday Parties: Yes, birthday party packages include access to all attractions and a private party room.
Chestnut Centre Otter, Owl and Wildlife Park
Location & Contact
- Address: Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak, Derbyshire, SK23 0QS
- Website: Chestnut Centre
- Price: £
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
This wildlife park is set in beautiful countryside and is home to a variety of otters, owls, and other wildlife. The park offers a peaceful and educational experience for families.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Any time of year, but spring and summer offer the best weather.
- Deals: Check their website for family ticket discounts.
- Birthday Parties: Yes, they offer unique birthday party experiences with guided tours and animal encounters.
White Post Farm
Location & Contact
- Address: Mansfield Road, Farnsfield, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG22 8HL (near the Derbyshire border)
- Website: White Post Farm
- Price: ££
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
White Post Farm offers a wide range of farm animals, petting areas, and indoor and outdoor play areas. There are also seasonal events and activities, making it a great place for family fun.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer to enjoy outdoor activities.
- Deals: Look for online booking discounts.
- Birthday Parties: Yes, White Post Farm offers birthday party packages that include animal interactions and playtime.
Twycross Zoo
Location & Contact
- Address: Burton Road, Atherstone, Warwickshire, CV9 3PX (close to Derbyshire)
- Website: Twycross Zoo
- Price: £££
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.0/5
Attractions
Twycross Zoo is known for its extensive collection of primates, including gorillas, chimpanzees, and monkeys. The zoo also features elephants, giraffes, and a variety of birds and reptiles. It’s a large zoo with plenty to see and do for the whole family.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Early spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Deals: Annual passes and online discounts are available.
- Birthday Parties: Yes, Twycross Zoo offers themed birthday party packages with animal encounters and guided tours.
Bluebell Dairy Ice Cream Farm
Location & Contact
- Address: Brunswood Farm, Locko Road, Spondon, Derby, DE21 7AR
- Website: Bluebell Dairy
- Price: £
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
This dairy farm offers delicious homemade ice cream and a small animal area where children can interact with goats, rabbits, and other farm animals. There’s also a play area and seasonal events like lamb feeding and pumpkin picking.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for outdoor activities.
- Deals: Look for family tickets and seasonal event discounts.
- Birthday Parties: Yes, Bluebell Dairy offers fun birthday party packages with farm tours and ice cream making.
Conkers
Location & Contact
- Address: Rawdon Road, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire, DE12 6GA
- Website: Conkers
- Price: ££
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.0/5
Attractions
Conkers is a large indoor and outdoor adventure park with a variety of activities, including a high ropes course, sensory trails, and interactive exhibits. It’s perfect for families who love adventure and exploring nature.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Any time of year, but spring and summer are best for outdoor activities.
- Deals: Annual passes and group discounts available.
- Birthday Parties: Yes, Conkers offers a range of birthday party packages with adventure activities and party rooms.
Top Tips for Mums Visiting Zoos and Wildlife Parks
- Plan Ahead: Check opening hours, ticket prices, and any special events.
- Pack Essentials: Bring sunscreen, hats, snacks, and water.
- Check Weather: Dress appropriately and bring rain gear if needed.
- Arrive Early: Early visits often mean quieter parks and more active animals.
- Look for Deals: Many parks offer online discounts, family tickets, and annual passes.
Conclusion
While we may not have major Zoos in Derbyshire, Derbyshire and its surrounding areas offer a treasure trove of wildlife parks and farms perfect for family days out. Whether you’re planning a special birthday party or just a fun day with the kids, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags, get the kids ready, and enjoy the wonders of the animal kingdom!
#Zoos in Derbyshire