A day out in Nottingham for families

EuropeFamily TravelNottingham

Thanks to its location in the East Midlands, Nottingham provides families with a great base for exploring central England. You’ll find a handful of family friendly outdoor areas, theme parks and farms in the surrounding countryside. Here’s a look at our favourites.

Sherwood Forest

The little ones will be able to blow off plenty of steam and run around Sherwood Forest in search of Robin Hood. Major Oak, said to be Robin’s favourite hide-out spot, is just one part of the forest with a strong connection to the legendary outlaw. Many parks around the forest have walking and bicycle tracks, such as Clumber Park, where an exciting Discovery Centre wows children and teaches them about local wildlife.

Twinlakes Park

Twinlakes Park is a 40-minute drive out of Nottingham. The park is split into themed areas like the Labyrinth Venture Zone and the Creepy Critters Zone. From taking a trip on the Treasure Island Express to spinning around on the Jester’s Revenge, there are rides and attractions to suit the whole gang. While the kids are whizzing around on roller coasters, you’ll be able to sit back with a coffee in one of many cafés.

Gulliver’s Kingdom

Another theme park close to Nottingham is Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock Bath. Aimed at mini adventurers aged between two and 13 years old, most of the rides are fairly gentle, like the cycle monorail and silver mine ride. Secret agents in the making can become apprentices in the SpyZone and try to crack codes and navigate mazes. Cafés and delis dot the park, though you might prefer to sit down to a picnic at one of many outdoor tables.

Ferry Farm Country Park

Your whole family will love petting all the piglets, lambs and goats in Ferry Farm Country Park. More pets and small livestock inhabit the farm’s animal handling area. As well as go-karts and tractor rides, your little ones have the chance to learn basic road safety while driving jumicars, small cars perfect for kids to pootle around a track. Ferry Farm’s restaurant serves home-cooked meals and offers a diverse and delicious children’s menu to entice even the pickiest of eaters.

For more information on things to do, as well as places to stay in Nottingham, visit our destination guide.

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