As we reach the second half of August, we recognize summer is coming to end. Before we know it the kids will be back to school and the evenings will start getting shorter. Luckily, there is still time to make the most out of the warm weather and the long evenings by squeezing in some all-important family adventures before school starts. In this article, we look at the top 5 family-friendly summer activities around Derby to keep the kids entertained.
1) Pickford’s House
If you are planning a day trip to the city of Derby, a visit to Pickford’s House is a must. Explore the unique Georgian museum which was home to Enlightenment architect, Joseph Pickford. Full of historic objects and interactive activities, each room was lovingly restored and features ever-changing exhibitions. For sunny days and visitors who love exploring the outdoors, Pickford’s House has a beautiful secret garden to explore.
During your visit, children can learn about history and enjoy a variety of activities. From dressing up in costumes from the Enlightenment era to visiting the Toy Theatre and watching enchanting scenes from Sleeping Beauty, Treasure Island, Little Red Riding Hood and Aladdin. The whole family is guaranteed to have a great time at Pickford’s House. Another good thing about Pickford’s House is that entry is free.
2) Belper Park Natural Reserve
For woodland walks and countryside views, pay a visit to Belper Park Natural Reserve. In the 13th Century the grounds were used for breeding and rearing deer for venison. In 1974 Belper parks came under the ownership of Amber Valley Borough Council and to this day, it remains a public open space. Visitors can roam through woodlands while taking in the stunning scenery of Derbyshire countryside. To keep the kids entertained, there is a poetry trial, a play area, sporting facilities, picnic areas and a wildflower meadow which produces beautiful wildflowers in the summer and enhances local wildlife. An open space for all the families, dogs are also welcome.
3) Denby Pottery Village
A 10 minute drive from Belper, you can stop by the Denby Pottery Village, ideal for those who enjoy arts and crafts. From shopping and cafes to pottery crafting and throwing experiences and factory tours. For the kids, they can visit the Denby Craft Studio for brilliant creative fun this summer. For £7 per child, kids can choose to paint fun pottery shapes, paint-a-pot or play with clay and create something spectacular to take home as a keepsake. For more fun, kids can take part for free in the excellent Summer Rock Hunt around the village.
4) Bluebell Dairy Farm
What is a summer without a visit to a local farm? Award-winning park, Bluebell Dairy Farm, is packed with cute and friendly farm animals ready to greet you including a pot bellied pig, a donkey, a Shetland pony, calves, sheep, goats, ducks, chickens, guinea pigs, rabbits and more. They also host summer events and offer birthday party packages. After saying hello to the farm animals, visit the ice cream parlour and choose from their delicious flavours of artisan ice cream. Parents can sit down and enjoy an ice cream or a coffee while watching their kids have the time of their life around the play area.
5) Conkers
For families who seek fun and adventure, Conkers is the place to go. Pick from a variety of outdoor activities such as high ropes, low ropes, zip line, climbing wall, pedal go-karting, archery, kata canoeing and swan pedalos. For indoor fun, there are play zones, a 4D cinema experience and other exhibits. Additionally, there is an award-winning garden, a splash park and take the train between the Discovery and Waterside Centres. With so much to offer, it is an attraction to keep both kids and parents entertained all day!
Join Us At The Lion Hotel
After a day full of summer family activities, visit The Lion Hotel in Belper for a homemade family dinner. We have an extensive gastro menu and stone-baked pizza as well as a children’s menu. If you are looking for somewhere to stay, we also offer stylish accommodation, perfect for families who are looking for a budget-friendly option near Derby. As a family-friendly hotel, we understand how much of a treasure family trips are. To book your family dinner or stay, please get in contact by calling our friendly reception team on 01773 824033 or make an enquiry online. We can’t wait to accommodate you and your family during your end of summer stay and make it one to remember!