MATLOCK FARM FIELD GUIDE
Alpaca Encounters Above Carsington Water: Quiet Walks, Carrot Feeds and Peak District Views
A private, family-friendly 45-minute experience at Owslow Farm that pairs close-up time with inquisitive alpacas and panoramic views of Carsington Water and the Peak District.
Alpaca Encounters Above Carsington Water: Quiet Walks, Carrot Feeds and Peak District Views.
Adventure brief
Alpaca Encounters Above Carsington Water: Quiet Walks, Carrot Feeds and Peak District Views
Set on rolling fields with Carsington Water and the Peak District as a backdrop, this short, private experience puts you face-to-face with calm, curious alpacas. Expect a slow, unhurried rhythm—time to meet the animals, take selfies and learn from staff while moving through grassy pasture that can be wet and muddy in all weathers.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Carsington Water and the rugged hills of England’s Peak District, Rustic Retreats offers a hands-on alpaca experience that stands apart from typical outdoor adventures in the region. This isn’t just a chance to see these gentle creatures; it’s an intimate introduction to their curious nature and quirky personalities in a setting where nature’s quiet charm takes the spotlight.
Located near Matlock in Derbyshire, the area is defined by rolling green pastures, limestone ridges, and the shimmering reservoir of Carsington Water. This reservoir, surrounded by farmland and open spaces, is a favorite for hikers, cyclists, and birdwatchers, making Rustic Retreats a natural fit for visitors looking to mix low-impact wildlife encounters with the outdoor appeal of the Peak District.
The Alpaca Meet, Greet & Feed experience encourages visitors to get hands-on: feeding the alpacas fresh carrots, snapping candid photos, and soaking up local animal lore guided by knowledgeable staff. Perfect for families and animal lovers, this 45-minute session balances relaxation and engagement without a rush. The alpacas, known for their inquisitive nature, provide an accessible connection to farming life and the rural landscape that has shaped this part of England for centuries.
Rustic Retreats emphasizes sustainability and education, highlighting the importance of respecting the land and livestock. Animals roam freely across lush fields, giving visitors an authentic feel for the Peak District’s agricultural heritage alongside its outdoor recreation offerings. Whether you’re pairing this stop with a nearby hike or simply seeking a quiet day out, Rustic Retreats offers a refreshing blend of wildlife interaction and countryside tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere in the region.
Route Schematic
Route and activity schematic
A stepwise flow from arrival through briefing, a guided field walk with scheduled selfie and feeding breaks, then a short return to the farm facilities.
Arrival and parking
Check your confirmation for directions, arrive onsite and park your car at Owslow Farmt before the welcome briefing.
Welcome & health and safety briefing
A short welcome and H&S briefing prepares you for handling and walking with your alpaca.
Meet your alpaca and field walk
Get to know your alpaca, then head off on a guided walk around the fields with scheduled times for selfies and feeding carrots.
Return, meet the herd and facilities
Head back to the start, meet the rest of the herd and the friendly goats, then use the toilet/handwashing station and browse the gift shop.
Depart relaxed
Finish the experience and head off home feeling relaxed.
Participants should expect uneven, potentially muddy pasture and wear sensible closed-toe footwear; smoking, vaping and dogs are not permitted onsite.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Feed a friendly alpaca
Feeding is part of the experience and carrots are provided at no extra cost, giving a relaxed, tactile moment with these inquisitive animals that make for memorable close encounters.
Staff-led introductions and hands-on time
Knowledgeable staff explain alpaca behaviour and care, and you may get a hands-on close encounter as you learn what makes these animals unique.
Picturesque selfie stops for all ages
The alpacas are described as inquisitive and friendly, which, paired with views across Carsington Water and the Peak District countryside, makes for easy photo moments suitable for visitors of all ages.
What the day feels like
What the experience feels like
This is a deliberately gentle, private farm experience: you arrive at the meeting point, receive a brief health-and-safety introduction, meet and get to know your alpaca, then walk with it around the fields with scheduled stops for selfies and feeding. After returning to the start you'll meet the rest of the herd and the friendly goats, wash hands and browse a small gift shop before heading home feeling relaxed.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this experience suits — and the on-site rules to keep in mind.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Wear sensible, closed-toe footwear and clothing suited to walking across potentially muddy, wet, long grassy fields in all weathers.
Expect field conditions—bring layers and waterproofs as needed, and closed-toe shoes for walking with the animals.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the Alpaca Meet, Greet & Feed last?
The experience is listed as 45 minutes, though the operator notes they never rush their experiences.
Where do I meet the group?
Meeting takes place at Owslow Farmt; check your confirmation email, tickets or Google for directions before arrival.
Can I feed the alpacas?
Yes — scheduled feeding of carrots is part of the experience and is provided at no extra cost.
Are children welcome?
The experience is suitable for all ages; children aged 3 and under go free.
Are dogs allowed or can I smoke onsite?
Dogs are not permitted on the experiences, and smoking or vaping is not allowed onsite.
Is there time for photos?
Yes—scheduled time for a selfie is included during the walk; the alpacas are described as inquisitive and friendly photo partners.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-12T12:12:43.041Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.