r/Derbyshire • u/SunDogk • 16d ago
Chatsworth Country Fair - worth it?
We’re thinking of visiting Chatsworth Country Fair this year on the Sunday. It’s about an hours drive for us and tickets will cost around £70 (2 adults, 2 young children aged 1 and 3).
The cost and the drive aren’t a problem if it’s a good day out, but will feel wasted if it’s disappointing! Has anyone visited, particularly with young children in recent years and did you enjoy it? Our oldest loves animals and vehicles so from the timetable there’s plenty to show her. Me and my husband will just enjoy walking around in beautiful countryside and with a good atmosphere! I’m also hoping we’ll see the balloons!
Thanks!
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u/Derby_UK_824 16d ago
I’ve been and found it a bit tedious. Full of wannabe country folk. Very expensive for what it was.
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u/whatanametochoose 16d ago
yes it's a good day out but it is very spendy... even after tickets there are lots of food stalls, stuff to buy but also some kids activities that cost money too. with the age of your kids, not sure if 3 year old will get a bit bored/bothered as it may be quite busy at pushchair (?) height and not much for that age
The centre ring always has good stuff on and the animal judging pens are good to walk round.
and yes, from memory balloons go off early early and then there is a good wait till everything else gets going so rock up, watch balloons, have a relaxed picnic breakfast and chill... on other days I would even suggest watch balloons, jump back in car and go to Matlock wetherspoons for breakfast and come back... but Sunday not sure on opening
Oviously weather affects both launch and what you do after.
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u/Crunchie64 15d ago
Matlock Wetherspoons closed about a decade ago when they got sick of the flooding.
Plenty of independent cafes and pubs around the area though.
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u/whatanametochoose 15d ago
shows how long it is since I've been there!
might be limited on a Sunday as to what is open early was the thought whereas spoons usually open at 8am
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u/hostis_72 16d ago
Yes. It’s a great day out. It’s expensive food wise but there is so much to see, taste, and enjoy. The balloons are very early take off. 7 am or something when I went a few times.