Located in in the town of Matlock Bath, Derbyshire, Gulliver’s Kingdom is a theme park aimed at young adventurers aged 3-13. Gulliver’s Kingdom is home to over 60 fun rides, from pirate ships to waterslides, and even some rollercoasters – many of which are parent-friendly too!
One particularly unique section of the park is the JCB Zone, where young builders can perfect their skills, and even get the opportunity to use a JCB digger!
There is a plethora of eateries on site, including the Happy Haddock, Tamu Feast, and the Canyon Grill, alongside a Costa Coffee. This resorts season runs from Easter to the end of Summer, 7-days a week, and then on weekends through September and October.
Gulliver’s Kingdom originally opened its doors in 1978 as a model village for children by Ray Phillips. Phillips’ family continue to run Gulliver’s Kingdom, alongside the other Gulliver’s resorts established by Phillips, including Gulliver’s Valley in Rotherham, Gulliver’s Land in Milton Keynes, and Gulliver’s World in Warrington.
Things to do at Gulliver’s Kingdom
Gulliver’s Kingdom Theme Park – The theme park is split up into 6 themed sections, with each section featuring a diverse selection of rides. Get adventurous up in the sky at Smuggler’s Wharf, where you’ll find mid-air assault courses, zip lines, and a number of water-based, pirate themed rides. Adventure Land is where you’ll find quick paced rides of varying heights and lengths, including the Drop Tower and the Flight of Fantasy, and is where you can board the Chair Lift which takes you to other sections of the park. Be prepared to be soaked in Western World, as the rides found here are log-flume based. Get up close and personal with a T. Rex while driving through the Dinosaur Kingdom in a Dino Explorer Car. The Lilliput Land is home to the JCB Zone and the Log Roller Coaster; and Toyland is where you’ll find rides aimed at visitors under 5.
Nerf Zone – Open all year round, the Nerf Zone arena is where kids, 6-years old and above, can perfect their Nerf Gun shooting skills. First, participants get trained up at the target range by a Nerf Master, then they enter the battle arena, where they compete to get the most shots on target.
Eating and Drinking at Gulliver’s Kingdom – Gulliver’s Kingdom boasts a fantastic range of eateries, including the Canyon Grill, which serves up classic beef, chicken, and bean burgers; the Tamu Feast offers things on the healthier side, including filled potatoes and sandwiches; and finally, the Happy Haddock is where you’ll find traditional fish and chips.
How to get there
By Car –Gulliver’s Kingdom is situated between Matlock and Derby on the A6. If you’re travelling from the West Midlands, follow the A38 and turn of on the A6; from which point, there should be brown signs directing you towards the park. If you’re travelling from the M1, exit at junction 28 and follow the brown signs.
Postcode for Satnav – DE4 3PG
Carpark – A free carpark is located at the main entrance.
Public Transport – It is possible to get the Derby to Matlock train, which stops at Matlock Bath – a 15-minute walk away from Gulliver’s.
The number 17 bus runs from Chesterfield to Matlock regularly. It is recommended to transfer at Matlock to the Transpeak R61 bus, which stops at the Fishpond Pub; from there, Gulliver’s is only a short walk away.
Good to Know
– There are picnic areas available throughout the park.
– Currently, Gulliver’s Kingdom only admits pre-booked admissions, so book online before you arrive!
– Book tickets two days in advance for cheaper rates.
Opening Times
Monday – Friday – 8am-9pm
Saturday and Sunday – 10.30am-5pm
Prices
Adult/Child – £21
Senior – £19
Under 90cm – Free
Concession – £11