Cheap Activities at Attractions in and around Derby and the East Midlands

From beautiful countryside to quirky attractions, there’s loads to keep people of all ages occupied on a shoestring.

We’ve rounded up some of our favourites below, some are near to the city and some a little further afield.

Although we’ve not factored in travelling costs or parking, most are free to do – or at very least just a few quid. And all are plenty of fun.

New Walk Museum and Art Gallery

Markeaton Park has lots of space with plenty of opportunity for families to enjoy a day out together.
During the summer there is a free paddling pool and in the grounds there is always something going on.
Feed the ducks at Markeaton Lake and for a price, you can hire a rowing boat or pedalo.
Entry is free and there are refreshments available on site.

Location: Markeaton Lane, Derby, DE22 4AA.

The National Forest stretches across Leicestershire into Staffordshire and has loads to do with the kids.
We suggest grabbing your bikes and heading out to some of the amazing cycle paths in the area:
Such as the Cloud Trail from Worthington towards Derby, or
The Ashby Woulds Trail you can take from Measham to explore the extensive Donisthorpe Miners Welfare site.

Location: Off High Street, Measham, Derbyshire, DE12 7HR

Splashing out on a trip to see some sea life at Matlock Derby Aquarium needn’t break the bank.
The Matlock Derby attraction is £3.30 per person to get in, with children four and under free.
There’s more than 50 species of fish to see.
As well as a hologram exhibition.
A petrifying well and gemstone display, and more.
Plus Matlock Derby itself is well worth a wander around to boot.

Location: North Parade, Matlock Derby, Derbyshire, DE4 3NS.

In the shadow of East Midlands Airport, near Castle Donington, is the Aeropark museum and viewing area where you can study the aeronautical technology of yesteryear, or
Just watch the modern jets of today landing and taking off.
It’s run by volunteers, and costs £4 adults and £2 for children five and over.
There’s also the Airport Trail sculpture walk around the airport’s perimeter to explore.

Location: Hill Top, Castle Donington, Leicestershire DE74 2PR

The first country park in England, Elvaston Castle and its surrounding parkland is a beautiful spot on the outskirts of Derby.
The park has around 321 acres of open parkland, woodland and more formal gardens and it’s won a national standard Green Flag Award for five years running.
Sadly, the house itself, described as a “gothic revival masterpiece”, is not open to the public.
Entry to the park is free.

Location: Borrowash Road, Elvaston, Derby, DE72 3EP.

Belper River Gardens are great.
Little ones can play in the play area and explore the band stand and,
There are great views over the Derwent.
You can hire a rowing boat for a small fee but it can be as much fun to watch inexperienced rowers struggle.
There is no charge for admission.

Location: Matlock Road, Belper, Derbyshire. DE56 1BE