Navigating the Summer Break - A Derby and Derbyshire Guide to Summer Activities

Tracey Ashton - Senior Business Support Officer & Davinia Bailach-Cabrerizo - Lead Therapeutic Practitioner

Thursday 23 July 2026

Summer can feel exciting but unsettling for some children, especially those in care. Safe, enjoyable activities can offer moments of joy and connection. Here’s what’s happening across Derby and Derbyshire this summer.

The long summer break can be a mixed experience for children and young people, especially those who are in care. While many look forward to weeks of freedom, warm weather, and time away from school routines, the holidays can also bring challenges. The structure of the school day disappears, familiar adults aren’t always around, and social opportunities can become limited. For some, the summer can feel unsettled - a stretch of time where routines shift, and change can add extra layers of emotion.

For children in care, staying connected, feeling included, and having access to safe, enjoyable activities can make a real difference. Opportunities to join in with local events, spend time outdoors, or take part in creative experiences can help bring stability, confidence, and moments of joy during a period that can otherwise feel unpredictable.

With that in mind, here’s a round‑up of what’s happening across Derby and Derbyshire this summer - from funded holiday programmes to free trails, reading challenges, and family days out.

Free Activities

It’s About Me – Derbyshire HAF Programme

For children on benefit‑related Free School Meals (not Universal FSM from Sept 26). Includes a healthy meal each day.

Dates: 23 July – 4 September (weekdays only)

Booking opens: 29 June - https://bookings.itsaboutmederbyshire.co.uk/list

Access: HAF/IAM code from school

Sessions: Up to 16

Derby City – Holiday Activities & Food Programme (HAF)

For Derby City children on benefit‑related FSM. Includes a healthy meal each day. Credits: 4 activities per week

Info: HolidayActivities.com

Voucher codes emailed: 23 June 2026

Dates: School holiday period (weekdays only)

Stick Man Outdoor Trail – National Memorial Arboretum

Free outdoor trail running daily.

Booking: No booking needed for the trail; parking must be booked online.

Info: The Stick Man Outdoor Trail | National Memorial Arboretum

Derby Theatre – Plus One Programme

Free theatre tickets & creative experiences for:

Looked‑after children (11+)
Care leavers
Their families

Contact: [email protected] Runs: All year Info: Plus One – Derby Theatre

Thornbridge Estate – Free Garden Entry

Free garden access for foster families. Website: https://www.thornbridgehall.co.uk

Derbyshire Libraries – Read to the Beat (Summer Reading Challenge)

For children aged 4–11 (although younger and older children can join too). Dates: 4 July – 29 August Website: https://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/