The Derbyshire May half term runs from Saturday 27th May to Sunday 4th June 2023 and there’s lots of family friendly events taking place in Derby and Derbyshire this school holiday. Bookmark this post and keep checking back as I will add more events as I see them.
Some events need pre-booking. Please double check details before making a special journey.
May half term in Derbyshire 2023
Wild West Week at Bluebell Dairy, Derby
27th May to 4th June 2023
A whole lot of yee-haw western fun for y’all! Fun, nostalgic fun for all ages including cowboy training show, panning for gold, wild west shoot out and cow safari – plus all the usual fun of the animal farm and ice cream! Discounted early bird tickets on sale now and read my recent review of Bluebells.
Garden Party Celebrations at the Heights of Abraham, Matlock
27th May to 4th June 2023
Live music, storytelling and explore the willow trail and serpent paths for surprises.
Seaside Fun at Crich Tramway Village
27th May to 2nd June 2023
Traditional seaside fun including fun fair, mini beach, bingo and crafts, Punch and Judy. There is also a face painter and balloon modeller.
Family Bushcraft at Carsington
Monday 29 May 2023, 1pm – 3pm
Join Derbyshire Wildlife Trust for an outdoors session learning how to make a shelter, keep warm and cook on a fire. Suitable for ages 4 to 11 and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Both adults and children will require a ticket. £10 per person. Booking essential.
Interactive Exotic Animal Day at Matlock Farm Park
Monday 29th May 2023
Get up close, with the opportunity to handle, snakes, frogs, tarantulas, giant millipedes and more. Learn about the animals’ features, needs and behaviours through the ranger’s fascinating talks. Free with park entry.
Young Creatives: Explore Virtual Reality at QUAD Derby
29th May to 31 May 2023, 10:30am – 3:30pm.
Free, three-day workshop for ages 14 – 19 at QUAD Derby. Learn to develop your own unique aesthetic within the realm of virtual reality. A great opportunity to work alongside a professional digital artist to learn about VR, AR and experiment with sound. Booking essential.
Make a Nature Story at Kedleston Hall
Tuesday 30th, Wednesday 31st May and Thursday 1st June 2023, 12 – 3pm
Drop in to make your own 4 page book, then explore the garden and park to find inspiration for your story. Suitable for ages 4 – 11yrs. No booking required. Free activity but admission charges apply. Read my guide to the best National Trust places in Derbyshire.
Superhero Lego Printing Workshop for Kids, near Bakewell
Thursday 1st June 2023, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Join Chesterfield-based printmaker Dave Elsom at Thornbridge Hall for a fun children’s superhero-themed, printing with Lego workshop. £20 per child, accompanying adults free. All materials and equipment are provided. Book here or read my review of Thornbridge Hall Gardens.
The BIG Bubbleman at Matlock Farm Park
Saturday 3rd June 2023
Join the Big Bubbleman, with his bubble mill, wands and special potions make the most amazing bubbles! Children also have the opportunity to make their own big bubbles or create smaller multi-coloured bubbles with hoops and trays of bubble liquid. Free with farm park entry.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this round up of the best family friendly events taking place this May half term holiday in Derbyshire.
