Top 10 family things to do in Derby this spring
Published: 16 March 2023
Derby has lots going on to keep families busy during the holidays
The school holidays are on the horizon, so we’ve compiled our top 10 fun things to do in Derby with your family during the Easter break and beyond, with most being completely free or low cost.
1. Easter Egg Hunt Trail
Hop on over to Markeaton Park for our Easter Egg Hunt Trail from Saturday 1 April to Sunday 16 April. Pick up your free map in the park or download one to start EGGS-ploring. See how many hidden eggs you can find to be entered into a prize draw to win Mundy Play Centre vouchers.
Plus, this year Mother Goose from Derby Arena’s panto, has hidden a Golden Goose Egg for 10 eagle-eyed egg hunters to find! Find the Golden Goose Egg and discover an exclusive panto promo code to use and save on your tickets. The code is limited to the first 10 lucky people who find it.
Find out more about the Easter Egg Hunt Trail on the Derby Parks website.
2. Derby Holiday Activity and Food Programme
Thousands of free holiday club places will be available to children thanks to the Derby Holiday Activity and Food Programme (HAF). Derby City Council is working in partnership with Community Action Derby to bring back the successful scheme for 2023.
The HAF programme offers activities and food to children aged 5 to 16 who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals. Youngsters can learn new skills while socialising and having fun with their friends. They will also be provided with a healthy meal and given the opportunity to learn about healthy food and nutrition.
There will be 31 providers offering a range of activities in all wards across the city, including seven special educational needs and disability (SEND) specialists. Families can find out about all the activities and providers for Derby by visiting the Derby HAF webpage. Bookings can be made directly with the providers.
3. Be Kind Storytimes at Derby Libraries
Join us in Derby Libraries for four special editions of Storytimes to share and listen to heart-warming stories about kindness. Storytimes are free at Alvaston, Mickleover, Normanton and Riverside libraries but booking is essential. Plus, children will have the opportunity to decorate their own book bags which they can then take home their chosen books in.
To find out more and to book visit the Derby Libraries website.
4. Springwood Leisure Centre
There’s lots to do at Springwood Leisure Centre during the school holidays. Why not come along as a family and have a go for half price? No need to bring equipment, you can hire at the leisure centre. The offer runs from Monday to Friday, between 9am and 3pm, during the school holidays. Subject to availability, bookings are required for players aged 16 years and under.
Alternatively, play on Springwood’s 5-a-side ATP pitches – also half price on the same dates and times. For more information or to book contact Springwood directly. There will also be a multi-sports activity day on Monday 3 April.
For under-5s, there will also be Thursday Soft Play sessions between 9.30am and 2pm for £3.50 per child. Drop-in or book in advance to secure your space.
5. Derby Parks
Reap the benefits of the great outdoors this Easter holiday with plenty of fantastic parks and open spaces right on our doorstep in Derby. Why not try out the Love Exploring app for a little walk on the wild side and see what you can discover?
Don’t forget to stop for a bite to eat or warm up with a hot drink in one of the many cafes located in Derby Parks, see our Food and Drink page for a full list of cafes and opening times.
6. Derby Museums
There will be activities for families taking place at Derby’s museums during the holidays. Children can explore the secret wildlife haven of the Pickford’s House garden with their Minibeast Safari on April 6 or Nature Creative session on 13 April. Both are free, or you can give what you think.
For more information about what’s on, see the Derby Museums website.
7. Cycling
Cycle Derby has lots of exciting activities on offer during the school holidays. Learn to Ride sessions will be held for children aged 5+, plus the New to Two Wheels club for children aged 4 to 8.
There will be a holiday club for children aged 6 to 12 at Derby Arena, which will include a ride to and around Elvaston Castle Country Park. For older children, there are track days planned at the Arena for youngsters aged from 9 to 16. All sessions must be booked in advance through the Cycle Derby website.
There will also be family track cycling sessions at Derby Arena on 4 and 11 April. For more information, call the Arena on 01332 640011.
8. St George’s Day Celebrations
There’s still fun to be had after the school holidays, as St George comes to Derby. Discover dragons, dancing at a free family-friendly event to celebrate St George’s Day on Saturday 22 April.
Working in association with Lost Boys, FOLK3D and supported by St Peter’s Quarter Business Improvement District (BID), Derby LIVE will bring you a feast of family fun including free outdoor performances, dancing and learn how to be a medieval knight and shoot the English longbow with trained instructors.
Visit the Derby LIVE website for more information and programme timings.
9. Coronation plate decorating workshop at Derby Libraries
As we approach King Charles’ coronation, Derby Libraries have an exciting opportunity to celebrate. Join Royal Crown Derby and Spiral Arts to decorate your own Crown Derby Plate. It’s perfect for the whole family to get creative and mark the historic occasion.
All materials will be provided, and expert artists will guide you through the process to unleash your inner artist. There will be sessions in Alvaston, Mickleover, Normanton and Riverside Libraries on scheduled Saturdays between April 22 and May 20. Sessions are free but booking is essential.
To find out more and check the dates visit the Derby Libraries website.
10. Recycle your Easter packaging
Last but definitely not least, don’t forget to recycle your packaging after you’ve gobbled your Easter eggs, the cardboard, plastic and foil can all be recycled! Or why not reuse the cardboard and colourful foil and make some EGGS-quisite Easter-themed crafts?
Make sure to check Derby City Council's A-Z of recycling and rubbish for more information.
With the cost of living rising, this is a tough time for families. You can get support with the cost of living at our online hub, which is packed with advice and support. It has been created in partnership by Derby City Council, Community Action Derby and Derby Homes. Visit the Community Action Derby website to see what help is available for you.