Gulliver's Kingdom
Hillside theme park with 20 rides and stunning Peak District views
At a Glance
Best Ages
2–13 years
Cost
Varies
Time Needed
4–6 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Mostly outdoor with some indoor play
Weather Fit
Best in dry weather; some indoor options
Stroller Access
Limited; steep hillside terrain
Washrooms
On-site
Food
Cafés and dining outlets on-site
Parking
Free on-site parking
Booking
Recommended online for best prices
Parent Effort
High (hillside walking & supervision)
A brilliantly unique theme park built into a steep Peak District hillside, offering younger children genuine thrills alongside breathtaking valley views. The natural terrain makes it memorable but demanding, so plan for plenty of walking and bring sturdy footwear.
About This Place
Gulliver's Kingdom is a family theme park perched dramatically on the hillside above Matlock Bath in Derbyshire, designed for families with children up to around 13 years old. The park features over 40 rides and attractions including roller coasters, water rides, a western-themed area, a dinosaur safari, and a pirate-themed zone. There are also shows, seasonal events like spooky Halloween spectaculars, and a resort hotel and lodges on site. One of the UK's most distinctively located theme parks.
Official Website open_in_new- Monday – Friday
- Closed
- Saturday – Sunday
- 10:30 – 17:00
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
Check the official website for current admission prices.
20 Rides Across 6 Themed Lands
From log flumes and junior coasters to dodgems and a double-decker carousel, there is a ride for every bravery level.
Indoor Play for Rainy Days
The Party House under-5s zone and other covered attractions mean the fun does not stop when the weather turns.
High-Ropes & Zip-Line Adventures
Crow's Nest Quest and Rigger's Revenge add active adventure for confident older kids who love climbing.
Themed Short Breaks On-Site
Stay overnight in themed accommodation with park tickets included and enjoy the resort at a relaxed pace.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Height Restrictions
- Many rides require 90cm+; a few need 110cm or 140cm. Under-90cm guests can enjoy around 8 rides free of charge.
- Terrain Warning
- The park is built on a steep natural hillside; manual and electric wheelchair mobility may be difficult on steeper slopes.
- Footwear Rules
- Secured closed-toe shoes are required for Cycle Monorail, Crow's Nest Quest and Rigger's Revenge (no crocs or sliders).
- Ride Access Pass
- Available for guests unable to queue due to additional needs; must be reserved online in advance with eligibility evidence.
- Carer Policy
- Carers must judge whether the person in their care can ride alone or should be accompanied; park staff are not trained to assess physical suitability.
- Public Transport Discount
- Up to 35% off entry with a valid public transport ticket; the resort holds the Good Journey Mark.
Kid Fit by Age
Very limited; steep terrain is hard with prams and most rides have minimum height limits.
The Party House under-5s zone and gentle rides like the Ladybird and Double-Decker Carousel are ideal.
This is the sweet spot: dozens of rides, interactive play areas and character theming are perfectly pitched for 3–5 year olds.
Plenty of thrills including log flume, pirate ship, tree-top drop and dinosaur safari keep 5–11 year olds engaged all day.
The zip line and high-ropes course add genuine adventure, though older tweens may find the ride intensity limited compared to major parks.
The park is explicitly designed for under-13s; teens are welcome but may find the rides too junior for repeated visits.
Insider Tips
Use the Chair Lift to travel between the lower and upper levels of the park without tackling the steepest slopes on foot.
Arrive at opening to head straight for the Log Flume and Tree Top Drop before queues build.
Check the online calendar carefully – the park is often closed midweek outside school holidays.
Download the accessibility guide in advance if anyone in your group has additional needs.
- •Children must be able to sit unaided in their own seat on several rides; they cannot sit on an adult's lap.
- •Some rides require one adult per boat or vehicle – check signage at each attraction.
- •The hillside setting means steep paths, steps and uneven ground; keep children close and hold hands on slopes.
- •Height restrictions are strictly enforced for safety; measure children before queuing to avoid disappointment.
- •A downloadable accessibility guide covers every ride; available from the park's accessibility page.
- •Both manual and electric wheelchair users should expect difficulty on steeper slopes owing to the natural hillside terrain.
- •Ride Access Passes for guests unable to queue must be reserved online in advance and require medical or Nimbus Access Card evidence.
- •Concessionary entry rates are available for eligible guests; see the concessions page for criteria and proof required.
schedule Best Time to Visit
Weekends and school holidays are busiest; visit on a dry weekday in term-time for the shortest queues and easiest hillside walking. The park is closed on most weekdays outside peak season, so always check the calendar before travelling.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxSturdy, closed-toe shoes with secured fastenings – crocs and sliders are not permitted on several key rides.
- check_boxSunscreen and hats for the open hillside areas with limited shade.
- check_boxA lightweight buggy or carrier for younger children; the terrain is steep and tiring for little legs.
- check_boxReusable water bottles to stay hydrated during the uphill walks between themed zones.
Location
Address
Gulliver's Kingdom, Temple Walk, Matlock Bath, Derbyshire, DE4 3PG
Phone
+441925444888
Last checked: 2026