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Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock Review (2026)

Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock Review (2026): Is It Worth It with Kids Under 12?

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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 thinking about visiting Gulliver’s Kingdom, here’s my honest take as a mum who’s been multiple times over the past three years with two very different ages.

We’ve now done three Gulliver’s theme parks, and Matlock is by far the most unique. Set on a stunning hillside in the Derwent Valley, right on the edge of the Peak District National Park, it’s a family-run theme park with its own unique charm — and one that works brilliantly for younger children.

⭐ Quick verdict: Who is Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock best for?

If your kids are under 12 — especially ages 4 to 10 — this is one of the best theme parks in the UK for them.

If you’ve got older children chasing adrenaline-fuelled rides, you may find parks like Gulliver’s Valley Resort or Gulliver’s World a better fit. But for younger kids, this is a much easier, more enjoyable day out. I can not hide the fact I love it and its a real hidden gem.

Is Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock worth it?

Yes — and for us, it’s one we come back to again and again.

This isn’t about massive thrill rides or polished big-park experiences like Alton Towers. It’s about a magical family day where the pace suits younger kids, there’s a wide range of rides, and you’re not spending half your day standing in queues.

👍 Pros and 👎 Cons of Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock

Pros:

  • Really small queues (we’ve never had to wait long)
  • Good selection of rides for younger kids
  • Unique theme park experience on a stunning hillside
  • Great mix of rides, play areas and attractions
  • Feels manageable and not overwhelming

Cons:

  • Not as polished as larger theme parks
  • Limited big thrill rides for older kids
  • Hills can be tough with a pushchair.

What makes Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock different?

Unlike other Gulliver’s theme park resorts, this one sits in an impressive hillside setting overlooking the stunning Derwent Valley.

That means:

  • A completely different layout to flat theme parks
  • Fabulous views across Matlock Bath
  • A more “adventure-style” experience

It’s right near the Heights of Abraham and just a short drive from Matlock Farm Park, making it perfect for a full family day out.

🎢 Rides at Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock

There’s a fantastic selection of rides here, with a wide range designed mainly for younger children.

Our favourites:

  • Log Flume – one of the best water rides, surprisingly fast and great fun
  • JCB Zone – always a hit
  • Mini rollercoasters – ideal first coasters
  • Pirate Ship – a classic
  • Dino Falls & Toyland – great themed areas to explore
  • Gully’s Pirate Adventure – perfect for younger kids

For slightly older children:

  • Tree Top Drop (drop tower) adds a bit of thrill.
  • Dinos Falls – Two fab water slide rides (You go in an inflatable)
  • Roggers Revenge –  is always a standout.

Kimi still enjoys it, but if I’m honest, he’d now lean towards parks like Rotherham for more adrenaline-style rides — which is exactly why this park works so well for younger children.

👶 Is Gulliver’s Kingdom good for younger children?

This is where it really stands out.

If you’ve got young children, this is one of the easiest theme parks to manage:

  • Rides aren’t intimidating.
  • Plenty of play areas
  • A great choice without overwhelming them

Eliza (now 5) has chosen this as her favourite place for the last three years — and that says everything.

Number of Rides

For guests under 90cm: You can enjoy up to 8 rides
For guests 90cm and over: You can enjoy up to 17 rides
For guests 110cm and over: You can enjoy up to 19 rides
For guests 140cm and over: You can enjoy up to 20 rides

🙌 The biggest win: minimal queues

This is honestly what makes Gulliver’s Kingdom so special for us.

We’ve never experienced huge queues here, which means:

  • No long waiting times
  • No overtired kids
  • No meltdowns

It turns it into a genuinely fantastic, fun day for the whole family.

📍 Location, address & practical info

  • Address: Temple Walk, Matlock Bath, Derbyshire, DE4 3PG
  • Official website: gulliverskingdomresort.co.uk

Located in the heart of Matlock Bath, it’s easy to combine with other attractions or make part of a wider Derbyshire day out.

💷 Ticket prices & deals (2026)

Lower than you Alton Towers pricing for theme park tickets:

  • Adults & children: around £24 online / £27 on the day
  • Under 90cm: free
  • Discounts available when booking in advance, also if you have kids pass.
  • They also offer an annual pass for all 4 parks. Read about the Derbyshire annual passes, which are worth having.

You’ll often find:

  • Great deals online
  • Latest special offers
  • Short break packages including theme park entry

👉 Always book ahead if you can — it’s noticeably cheaper.

🚡 Top tip (this makes your day SO much easier)

Start your visit by heading straight to the chair lift / cable car and going to the top of the park first.

Then work your way down.

You can do it with a pushchair (I have), but it’s a tough uphill walk — especially with younger kids.

🏡 Can you stay at Gulliver’s Kingdom?

Yes — and it’s a great option if you want to turn it into a short break.

They offer:

  • Themed lodges and family accommodation
  • Princess suites and safari lodges
  • Short break staycations

It’s ideal if you’re travelling or want to stretch the experience over a couple of days.

🎉 Events & seasonal extras

Throughout the year, Gulliver’s Kingdom runs:

  • Easter events (including the Easter Bunny)
  • Fancy dress events
  • Seasonal themed weekends
  • Special appearances and activities

These add an extra layer to your visit, especially during school holidays.

🎢 Gulliver’s Kingdom vs other theme parks

Compared to:

  • Alton Towers
  • Gulliver’s Valley Resort
  • Gulliver’s World

Gulliver’s Kingdom stands out because:

  • It’s better suited to younger kids
  • The queues are much shorter
  • The whole experience is more relaxed

It’s a completely different type of theme park — and for families with younger children, often a better one.

Final thoughts – would we go again?

We already do.

For younger children, this is one of the best family theme parks in the UK. It’s not about massive rides — it’s about a great day out that actually feels enjoyable from start to finish.

And honestly? With both kids, I’d choose this over Alton Towers every time.

FAQs about Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock

Is Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock good for toddlers?
Yes — it’s one of the best parks in the UK for younger children.

How long do you need?
A full day is ideal.

Are there big rides?
A few, but it’s mainly designed for younger children.

Is it worth the money?
If you book in advance — absolutely.

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