Matlock Meadows Farm is a lovely place to visit in the Peak District with kids and is just a five minute drive to the east of Matlock. Meet the farm animals, have a play in all weathers, and grab a bite to eat (they sell some of the best homemade Peak District ice-cream!) Allow a couple of hours for your visit. Parking and use of the play areas are free at Matlock Meadows Farm, although there is an understanding that visitors will purchase something from the café.
Matlock Meadows gets our vote as one of the top cafes with a playground in the Peak District.
Around the farm, expect to see cows, goats, chickens, and sheep.
There is both an outdoor and indoor play area. The outdoor play area can get rather muddy, so bring wellies. But the indoor play area makes for a good rainy day option, and is inside the barn and there are small ride on tractors to play on, as well as coin-operated go-carts.
You must try the award-winning Italian style gelato, which is made on site. There are 15 flavours to choose from and each and every one is absolutely delicious (not that we’ve tried them all… yet)! There are also dairy free and gluten fee ice-creams available.
You can also purchase breakfasts and light lunches, as well as the usual hot drinks. Adjacent to the café is a separate seating area with a small play area for toddlers, and a large wooden train set to play with.
Matlock Meadows is currently open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 4:30pm Check their website for opening times, as these differ in the summer and winter months.
You may also like to read:
Top things to do in the Peak District with kids
Best cafes and pubs with a playground in the Peak District
Things to do in Matlock