Things to do with the family in Derbyshire in August 2025

Bonsall Hen Races

Let’s go hen racing! There’s fun to be had for all the family at this popular annual event, which takes place at the Barley Mow in Bonsall. As well as the fun spectacle of the hens, there’s also a top notch BBQ, live music and plenty more enjoyment to be had. Don’t miss this free, fun and family-friendly day which will live long in the memory.

August 2

The Vikings of Middle England

The Vikings are back at Cromford Mills! Experience what life was like over 1,000 years ago with Viking camps, demonstrations, weapons display, battle skirmishes and lots of family activities. The Vikings of Middle England are famous for their realistic, exciting and entertaining displays – the visual effect is stunning! This event is free for all to watch in the grounds of Cromford Mills.

August 2-3

Wildlife Watch – Pond Dipping

Join the Environmental Education Project Team on site at Rosliston Forestry Centre this moth to see what creatures lurk beneath the waters of the lake. Drop in any time between 2pm and 4pm for a 20-minute session (£3 per child). A great chance for children to explore and engage with nature, while having plenty of fun along the way. All equipment provided.

August 5, 12, 19

Rural Olympics

Get ready for an action-packed day of fun and competition at the Rural Olympics at Carsington Water. Test your skills and speed on the obstacle course and compete to win awesome prizes! Challenge your friends and family to conquer our fun-filled course, featuring: Egg and spoon race; Bowling pins knockdown; Wellie wanging’ and much more. Bring the whole family for a day packed with fun and adventure!

August 6

Legendary Joust at Bolsover Castle

Experience the exhilarating spectacle of speed and skill as legendary knights compete for honour and glory. See lances shatter, feel the thunder of hooves and hear the roar of the crowd as reputations are won and lost. Each fearless knight represents a character from myth or legend – The Wyvern, The Wildman, Sir Lancelot and Jason of the Argonauts. Who will be your champion?

August 23-25

Family Fun Day in the Forest

Rosliston Forestry Centre will be hosting a ‘Family Fun Day in the Forest’, filled with all sorts of drop-in activities on the day, to keep the whole family entertained with only one-time entry fee per child. Activities include: Archery; Crafts; Inflatables; Den Building; Birds of Prey; Orienteering to name but a few. The centre also offers woodland walks, play areas, café, group activities and more.

August 28