Derby Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of England, Derby is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern attractions. Known as the "Gateway to the Peak District," Derby offers a unique mix of stunning landscapes and urban charm, making it an ideal destination for both nature lovers and city enthusiasts.
One of the must-see attractions in Derby is the picturesque Derby Cathedral. Dating back to the 10th century, this stunning cathedral is an architectural masterpiece, boasting intricate stained glass windows and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the cathedral's rich history and even climb the tower for breathtaking views of the city.
For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Derby Museum and Art Gallery is a must. This impressive gallery showcases a diverse collection of artwork, ranging from contemporary pieces to classic masterpieces. The museum also offers interactive exhibits that delve into Derby's history and heritage, providing a fascinating insight into the city's past.
Derby's industrial heritage is also a prominent feature of the city. The Derby Silk Mill, known as the world's first factory, is a fascinating testament to the city's manufacturing legacy. Visitors can embark on a journey through time as they explore the mill's exhibits, which showcase the evolution of industry and technology.
Nature lovers will be delighted by Derby's close proximity to the stunning Peak District National Park. Just a short drive away, this breathtaking natural wonderland offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. From hiking and cycling to rock climbing and horse riding, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque landscape.
In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Derby is also a haven for shopping enthusiasts. The city center is home to an array of independent boutiques, high-street stores, and bustling markets, offering a unique shopping experience for visitors.
Derby Attractions - What to See and Explore
Derby offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: County Cricket Ground, Derby Museum and Art Gallery, Stenson Marina, Pride Park Stadium. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Things to See and Do in Derby by Category
Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Derby.
Culture
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
DerbyDiverse collections and exhibits for free
Museum History museum Arboretum 
Guildhall Theatre
DerbyConcerts and shows Theater Arboretum 
Derby Theatre
DerbyConcerts and shows Theater Arboretum 
VoiceBox
DerbyMuseum Art gallery Abbey
Active
County Cricket Ground
DerbySport venue Sport Arenas and stadiums Derwent 
Pride Park Stadium
DerbySport venue Sport Arenas and stadiums Alvaston 
Donington Park
DerbyPopular track with hairpins and inclines
Sport venue Sport 
Derby Arena
DerbySport venue Sport Sport complex Alvaston 
Derby Racecourse
DerbySport venue Sport Derwent
Church
Derby Cathedral
DerbyPlace of worship with 16th-century tower
Church Architecture Arboretum 
St Mary's Bridge Chapel
DerbyChurch Darley 
All Saints Church
DerbyChurch Gothic Revival architecture Gothic architecture 
St John the Evangelist's Church
DerbyChurch Gothic Revival architecture Sacred and religious sites Darley 
St Peter's Church
DerbyChurch Architecture Arboretum
Park
Kedleston Hall
DerbyNeoclassical mansion in vast parkland
Museum Historical place 
Darley Park
DerbyPark Darley 
Derby Arboretum
DerbyThe first public park in Britain
Park Forest Arboretum 
Elvaston Castle
DerbyGothic Revival architecture Park Historical place 
Allestree Hall
DerbyPark Allestree
Museum
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
DerbyDiverse collections and exhibits for free
Museum History museum Arboretum Kedleston Hall
DerbyNeoclassical mansion in vast parkland
Museum Historical place 
Cathedral Quarter
DerbyMuseum Arboretum 
Derby Gaol
DerbyMuseum Historical place Darley 
Royal Crown Derby
DerbyMuseum Visitor center Arboretum
Bridge
Exeter Bridge
DerbyBridge Arboretum 
Cathedral Green Footbridge
DerbyBridge Arboretum 
Friar Gate Bridge
DerbyBridge Darley 
Saint Alkmund's Way Footbridge
DerbyBridge Darley 
Handyside Bridge
DerbyBridge Darley
Area
Alvaston
DerbyArea Alvaston 
Darley Abbey
DerbyArea Darley 
Little Eaton
DerbyVillage Area 
Quarndon
DerbyVillage Area
Village
Stenson Marina
DerbyVillage Sailing Marina Little Eaton
DerbyVillage Area Quarndon
DerbyVillage Area 
Morley
DerbyVillage Church
Monastery
The Friary
DerbyBars and clubs Monastery Nightlife Arboretum 
Breadsall Priory
DerbyMonastery 
St. James Priory
DerbyMonastery Arboretum 
Barrow Camera
DerbyMonastery St Helen's Priory
DerbyMonastery Darley
Derby – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Derby, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Alton Towers (Alton Towers), Calke Abbey, Cromford Mill (Cromford).
Best Time To Visit Derby
Learn when is the best time to travel to Derby weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Ale
Ale is a type of beer distinguished by its sweet, full-bodied, and fruity flavor, resulting from a warm fermentation process. Originally, ale was brewed without hops, using a blend of herbs or spices known as gruit for bitterness.
Type of beer
Stew
A stew is a robust dish crafted by simmering solid food ingredients in a liquid to create a rich, flavorful gravy. These ingredients often include a diverse array of vegetables and proteins such as beef, poultry, sausages, and even seafood.
Parkin
Parkin is a classic gingerbread cake originating from northern England, particularly cherished in Yorkshire and Lancashire. This delightful treat is made with oatmeal and black treacle, which impart a distinctive flavor and texture.
Sticky toffee pudding
Sticky toffee pudding is a cherished English dessert celebrated for its moist sponge cake enveloped in a rich toffee sauce, typically accompanied by vanilla custard or ice cream. In Australia and New Zealand, a similar delicacy known as sticky date pudding enjoys...
Crumble
A crumble is an incredibly versatile dish that comes in both sweet and savory variations, although the sweet version is undoubtedly more popular. For the sweet crumble, you typically begin with stewed fruit, topped with a crumbly mixture made from fat, flour, and sugar.
Dish
Art works & crafts
ArtFamous works of special cultural and artistic value related to this location.
Midland Railway
The Midland Railway was a prominent entity in the UK's railway industry, established in 1844. By the early 20th century, it had evolved into one of Britain's largest railway companies and became a significant employer in Derby, where its headquarters were located.
Company
Royal Crown Derby
The Royal Crown Derby Porcelain Company, nestled in Derby, England, is one of the oldest and most esteemed porcelain manufacturers in the country. Renowned for its exquisite bone china, the company's origins date back to around 1750.
Company
Chelsea porcelain factory
Chelsea porcelain, crafted at the Chelsea porcelain manufactory, stands as England's first significant porcelain factory. Established around 1743-1745, it operated until 1770 when it merged with Derby porcelain. This factory was renowned for its soft-paste porcelain...
Andrew Handyside and Company
Andrew Handyside and Company was an eminent iron foundry located in Derby, England, during the 19th century. The narrative begins with Andrew Handyside, born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1805. In 1848, he took the helm of the Britannia Foundry, already renowned for its...
Company
9th/12th Royal Lancers
The 9th/12th Royal Lancers was a distinguished British Army cavalry regiment, established in 1960 from the merger of the 9th Queen's Royal Lancers and the 12th Royal Lancers. Renowned for their reconnaissance proficiency, they were equipped with Combat Vehicle...
Army unit
England