Chestnut Conservation and Wildlife Park

From the giant otter to polecats and free-roaming deer, there's something for all the family at the Chestnut Centre. In beautiful grounds of the Derbyshire Peak district, with a stream running through the valley, home to four species of otter, owls, pine martens, foxes, Scottish wildcats and sika.

Since the centre was set up by keen conservationists Carol and Roger Heap over 30 years ago, it has grown into a popular wildlife attraction. Set in 50 acres of beautiful landscaped grounds in the Peak District National Park, with a stream running through the valley, the Chestnut centre is home to four species of otter, including the endangered giant otter, and 17 species of owls. There’s other indigenous wildlife too, such as pine martens, polecats, foxes, Scottish wildcats and sika and fallow deer. Every spring there are enchanting new arrivals, such as baby polecats, otters or young deer.

There are special events throughout the year, such as Owl Encounters or Batty Bats, when you can find out more about these fascinating creatures. Every day of the week there are also meet the keeper sessions, animal feeding times and deer encounters. With lovely woodland trails, a cosy tearoom and well stocked gift shop, the Chestnut Centre has everything for an enjoyable and informative day out. Special activities are available for school parties and groups, including animal encounters, storytelling and wildlife quizzes and trails.

Educational Visits

We have a experienced Education Team at the Chestnut Centre. All of whom enjoy the outdoors and wildlife but most importantly have the skill and passion to share their enthusiasm with the thousands of school children who visit the centre each year.

Our educational visits are geared to all curriculum requirements.

We offer a choice of 2 options to suit your requirements

Gold Option - Fully Guided Visit

• Complimentary visit to teachers/group leaders prior to visit

• Comprehensive teacher pack to download

• Free adult/child ratio

• Your own experienced guide who will remain with you throughout your visit

• Full use of a lockable nature classroom - a place to to leave belongings and have lunch

• Your dedicated guide/guides will accompany your group around Nature Trail sharing their knowledge.

• Afternoon activity depending on age or an opportunity to revisit animals with your leaders /responsible adult.

• Free coach parking

• Complimentary hot drinks for teachers and parents throughout the day (not Costa Coffee)

Silver Option - Self Guided Visit

• Complimentary visit for teacher/group leader prior to visit

• You will be shown to your classroom by a member of staff

• Comprehensive teacher pack to support your visit

• Introductory talk

• Use of nature classroom throughout your visit to leave belongings and have lunch if required.

• Free adult/child ratio

• Full use of park during your visit - children must be supervised at all times.

• Free coach parking

Add an Educational Session?

30 minute owl based workshop is available to schools/groups and must be pre-booked.