Crich Tramway Village, nestled in the picturesque Derbyshire Dales overlooking the Derwent Valley, offers a captivating journey back in time for vintage vehicle enthusiasts and families alike. This unique attraction boasts a charming collection of trams from various eras, including several from Blackpool, a town renowned for its heritage trams. The sight of these vintage vehicles trundling along the tracks, passing by an old-fashioned sweet shop, a bandstand, and a relocated historical pub, evokes a sense of nostalgia and provides a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. For those lamenting the discontinuation of Blackpool’s heritage trams, Crich provides a comforting alternative, preserving these iconic vehicles and allowing visitors to appreciate their historical significance and charm.
The village’s appeal extends beyond its impressive tram collection. Visitors are transported to a bygone era with the help of small details, like receiving old coins upon arrival – a penny for adults and a halfpenny for children – to pay the conductor on their first tram ride. This immersive experience continues with a visit to Barnett’s sweet shop, offering a traditional selection of jars filled with candies and ice cream, and the Red Lion, a pub meticulously reconstructed brick by brick from its original location in Stoke. These carefully preserved and relocated historical structures further enhance the village’s authentic atmosphere and offer a glimpse into the past.
Crich Tramway Village provides excellent value for money with its annual pass system. After the initial purchase, visitors can return throughout the year to enjoy the trams and other attractions as often as they like. This is particularly advantageous for families living within a reasonable distance, allowing them to make the most of the village’s offerings during the summer season. While the village primarily operates from March until Halloween due to its outdoor nature, the extended access provided by the annual pass ensures ample opportunities to explore and enjoy the various experiences.
Beyond the trams and historical buildings, Crich Tramway Village offers additional attractions that cater to diverse interests. The reconstructed façade of the 1763 Derby Assembly Rooms, saved from demolition after fire damage to the original building, stands as a testament to architectural preservation. The village’s location near Matlock Bath further enhances its appeal, offering access to other attractions like Gulliver’s Kingdom theme park, the Heights of Abraham cable car, and the Matlock Bath Illuminations, creating a comprehensive entertainment hub for families and tourists. This combination of historical charm and modern attractions makes Crich a compelling destination for staycations, offering a Blackpool-esque experience in a more central location.
For budget-conscious visitors, Crich Tramway Village provides various cost-saving options. Reciprocal deals with other tourist attractions in the area offer discounts on Crich tickets, while English Heritage members can take advantage of two-for-one entry, although this option forfeits the annual pass benefit. Therefore, visitors are encouraged to consider the frequency of their intended visits to determine the most economical ticketing option. A single visit might benefit from discounts, whereas frequent visits would justify the full price for an annual pass, maximizing the value and enjoyment of the experience.
Crich Tramway Village extends a warm welcome to four-legged family members, allowing dogs to accompany their owners throughout the site, with the exception of the cafe and indoor soft play area. Dogs are even permitted on the lower deck of the trams, making it an ideal destination for dog lovers seeking a fun and inclusive day out. This pet-friendly policy further enhances the village’s appeal, creating a welcoming environment for all members of the family, both human and furry. The combination of vintage trams, historical buildings, nearby attractions, and dog-friendly policies makes Crich Tramway Village a truly unique and memorable destination for a day out or a longer staycation.
