The Peak District Kids Awards 2026 mark the first-ever celebration of local businesses who go the extra mile to make the Peak District an incredible place for families. From outdoor adventures and welcoming cafés to practical stays and hidden gems, these awards recognise the people and places that make family adventures in the Peak District truly special.
Nominations open: 16th January 2026
Nominations close: 23rd January 2026
Voting opens: 30th January 2026
Voting closes: 6th February 2026
Winners announced: 10th February 2026
How the awards work
The Peak District Kids Awards are a two-stage process:
- Nominations
Members of the public and businesses can nominate eligible businesses in each category. - Public voting
A shortlist will be created for each category based on nominations. The public will then be invited to vote for their favourites.
The awards are completely free to enter; there are no fees at any stage.
Who can be nominated?
To be eligible, businesses must be based within the Peak District National Park. Matlock, Matlock Bath, and Buxton are included in the eligible area. Chesterfield, Leek, Macclesfield, and Sheffield are not included.
Businesses can nominate themselves.
How does voting work?
Voting opens on 30th January 2026.
- Each person may submit one voting form
- Votes are verified to ensure fairness
- Category winners are determined by the highest number of verified votes, with oversight from the Peak District Kids voting panel
- 1 winner will be awarded in each category
Everyone who votes will be entered into a prize draw. Details of the prizes will be announced soon!
Eligible businesses and individuals may vote for themselves and are encouraged to share the awards on their own social media channels to gather support.
Is there an awards ceremony?
While we’d love to host a big celebration, that would come at a significant cost and we’re committed to keeping these awards completely free to enter. Winners will be announced on our social media channels and via the Peak District Kids newsletter.
Award Categories
There are 7 categories in the Peak District Kids Awards 2026 to celebrate the local businesses and individuals going the extra mile for families.
1. Best attraction for families
From theme parks and farmyard adventures to heritage railways and grand estates, this award celebrates the attractions that deliver an unforgettable day out for families of all ages.
2. Best eatery for families
Whether it’s a cosy café, pub, or restaurant, this award recognises family-friendly places serving great food with a warm welcome.
3. Best accommodation for families
For hotels, cottages, or lodges that make family stays easy, comfortable, and memorable.
4. Best campsite for families
Recognising the best family-friendly campsites, from scenic pitches to excellent facilities and warm hospitality.
5. Best outdoor adventure provider
For outdoor adventure providers offering family-friendly activities such as rock climbing, bouldering, kayaking, abseiling, caving, and more.
6. Sustainability Award
For local tourism businesses taking meaningful steps to protect the environment and promote sustainable family adventures.
7. Hidden Gem Award
For a small or lesser-known business that families adore once they discover it; the best-kept secret in the Peak District.
The Peak District Kids Awards 2026 are free to enter and open to eligible businesses and individuals based within the Peak District National Park (including Matlock, Matlock Bath, and Buxton). Nominations are used to create shortlists, followed by a public vote; each person may submit one voting form. Votes are verified to ensure fairness, and category winners are decided by verified public votes with oversight from the Peak District Kids voting panel. Peak District Kids reserves the right to remove invalid votes, amend award details if needed, and make final decisions. Full Terms & Conditions apply.
By nominating or voting, you agree to the Peak District Kids Awards Terms & Conditions.