🐐 Matlock Farm Park Review (2026): Is It Worth It With Kids?
If you’re searching for a family day out in Derbyshire that actually delivers, Matlock Farm Park is one that comes up time and time again.
But is it really worth the money—and does it work for kids of different ages?
We’ve been visiting since 2018 (back when I didn’t even drive, so getting there was a mission in itself), and we’ve seen it evolve into one of the best all-round days out for families in the area.
In this guide, I’m sharing exactly what it’s like now—what your kids will love, what’s worth paying extra for, and the small tips that can save you money and make the day run so much smoother for you to have a great day out in the Peak District.
Table of Contents
📍 Where is Matlock Farm Park?
Matlock Farm Park is located just outside Matlock in Derbyshire, with beautiful views across the countryside and easy access by car with free parking on-site.
There is a bus that stops nearby, but it only runs a limited number of times throughout the day. From experience, it’s not always ideal if you’re planning a longer, relaxed visit—so driving definitely makes things easier.
👩👧👦 Our Experience (From a Mum Who’s Been Going Since 2018)
We’ve been going to Matlock Farm Park since we first moved to Derbyshire—and it’s one of those places that’s grown with us.
Back in the early days, visits were rare because getting there without a car wasn’t straightforward. Now? It’s one of those easy, go-to days out.
They have fab events through the year to keep an eye on as well. It just keeps getting better and has been built with love and care and families very much at the forefront of its heart and design.
Kimi is now 12, so he’s naturally starting to outgrow it slightly—but he still enjoys going, especially with his sister. Eliza absolutely loves it, and for younger children, you can see exactly why.
From toddlers up to around 10 or 11, it’s pretty much spot on.
What I’ve always liked is that you’re not constantly chasing or stressed—it’s a place where kids can explore, and you can actually enjoy the day too.
🛝 What Is There To Do at Matlock Farm Park?
There’s a really good mix of animals, play and hands-on experiences, which is what makes it work so well for families.
🐐 Animal Experiences
Feeding animals (definitely worth doing) make sure to buy a bag of animal feed at the entrance
Walk-through enclosures for wallaby encounters
Meerkat talks and demonstrations
Petting area in the small animal barn for lots of animals for the kids to get hands on. Eliza always loves to pet rabbits and the guinea pigs
Opportunities to get close to smaller animals
Ferret race and sheep races
🛝 Play Areas
Indoor rainforest playbarn soft play (still a favourite even as they get older)
Uk’s largest jumping pillow (Eliza’s highlight every time)
Large outdoor play areas with a variety of play equipment
Sand and digger areas with pulley systems
The newer wooden play area is brilliant—kids can move gravel through pulleys, watch it cascade through channels, and properly get stuck in.
🐴 Optional Extras
- Short Pony rides
- Ride-on carts at the go-kart track
- A few small paid activities
- Food vans
- garden room café
- Gift shop on the way out
There are extras, but honestly, there’s so much included that you don’t feel pressured to spend more.
💰 Matlock Farm Park Prices (And Is It Worth It?)
Typical prices, please check current ptices online:
- Adults: £16–£18
- Children: £14–£16
- Under 2s: Free
There are a few extras inside, but compared to many family attractions, it feels good value—especially if your kids make full use of the play areas and animal experiences.
👉 Our take:
If you stay for a few hours and plan it well, it’s definitely worth it for an ideal place for some farmyard fun and a fantastic day out.
They also offer an annual ticket, which is well worth it if you live locally for return journeys and certainly ranks among our best annual Derbyshire family tickets.
💡 Top Tips to Save Money & Have a Better Day
These can make a big difference:
- Take a packed lunch – easily saves £20–£30
- Bring water bottles (and flavour drops as a treat alternative)
- Buy animal feed early
- Check activity times when you arrive
- Take a spare layer – it can get colder up there than you expect
We’ve learned most of these the hard way over the years—and they genuinely improve the day.
💛 Why It’s More Than Just a Day Out
This one’s personal, but it matters.
Before my mum and dad got sick, they used to take the kids here. It gave them that perfect balance—space for the kids to run and explore, but also somewhere they could sit and just enjoy watching them.
And I think that’s what Matlock Farm Park does really well.
It’s not chaotic. It’s not overwhelming. It just works for families.
👎 What To Know Before You Go
To keep this honest:
- Older kids may start to outgrow it
- A few extras are chargeable
- Public transport isn’t ideal
- Weather can change quickly
None of these are deal-breakers—but they’re worth knowing.
🎟️ Events & Seasonal Activities
Matlock Farm Park runs events throughout the year, and they’re worth planning around.
We’ve done the Highland Games before, and it completely changes the feel of the day—there’s loads going on and a great atmosphere.
👉 If you’re visiting in school holidays, check what’s on before you go.
❓ Matlock Farm Park FAQs
Where is Matlock Farm Park?
Located just outside Matlock, Derbyshire, with free parking and the tranquillity of the countryside. It’s on the same road as Little Monkey’s Play Barn. The fresh air of the countryside also knocks the kids out after a hours of fun at Matlock Park Farm.
Is there parking?
Yes—free on-site parking available.
Can you take your own food?
Yes, and it’s highly recommended to save money. If you do have the budget for food the cafe is lovley with delicious homemade food
Are there extra costs inside?
A few optional extras, but they are subtle, but plenty are included in your ticket to keep the kids excited without any meltdowns for not doing the paid activities.
How long do you need?
Around 3–5 hours is ideal for most families.
What age is it best for?
Best suited for toddlers to around age 10/11.
Are there animal feeding experiences?
Yes—buy feed on arrival and check times for sessions.
⭐ Is Matlock Farm Park Worth It?
Honestly—yes.
For younger kids especially, it’s one of the best all-round days out in Derbyshire.
It’s easy, it’s well thought out, and it’s somewhere you can return to again and again without it feeling the same every time.
Whether you’re local or visiting, it’s definitely one to have on your list.
👩💻 AUTHOR BIO
About the Author – Abbie Coleman (MMB Magazine)
Abbie is the founder of MMB Magazine and Ey-Up Kids, creating trusted, real-life guides for families across the UK. As a mum of two, she shares honest reviews, practical tips, and genuine experiences from real visits—helping parents plan better, easier days out with their children.