Derbyshire Alpacas

You'll find yourself face-to-face with some genuinely charming alpacas just outside Belper in Derbyshire. This working alpaca farm lets you get up close with the animals - feeding, handling, and photographing them if you're lucky. The herd are friendly enough, though like all alpacas they've got opinions about personal space. There's something properly therapeutic about spending an hour or two here, especially if you've got young kids who need a break from screen time.

It's not a massive operation - don't expect theme park scale or elaborate enclosures. What you get is honest interaction with the animals and a working farm atmosphere. Children tend to love it, adults less so unless they're properly into animals or farming. The whole visit probably takes two to three hours if you're not rushing.

Since opening hours and admission prices aren't publicly listed anywhere obvious, ring ahead before you go - nothing worse than turning up only to find they're closed for a private event. Located between Belper and the broader Derbyshire countryside, it's a reasonable stop-off if you're camping at The Firs or Poplars Farm nearby. Not quite enough to build a whole day around unless you're combining it with walks around Carsington Water, but as an afternoon activity during a caravan holiday it works well. Muddy ground in wet weather, so bring sensible shoes.