Derby is a city on River Derwent’s shore, in Derbyshire, England. The city’s population in 2021 was 261,400.
Whether a nature lover, hiker, or cyclist, there are quite some fun things to do in Derby. The city features magnificent gems waiting to be visited and explored.
Being United Kingdom’s most central city, Derby is a great destination to experience rich culture. Derby is the abode of Rolls Royce company, which is the second largest manufacturer of aero-engines in the world.
The Derby Cathedral is one of the famous tourist attractions due to its gorgeous building and rich history.
Also, the city is home to Darley Park, another top tourist attraction that welcomes guests from England and other nations.
Derby also houses the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, a must-see spot for tourists who love art and history.
Are you planning an exploration of Derby? Here are the best things to do in Derby, Derbyshire.
Things to Do In Derby, Derbyshire
1. Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site
Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site
This tourist attraction is the solely World Heritage Site in East Midland, situated close to the River Derwent. This attraction is located in Belper, 19 minutes from Derby.
Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site offers several activities, such as Making at the Mill, where you can make your souvenir with the use of a needle.
There’s Bonsall Art Trail, a workshop with live music, and a Bazaar, a monthly market where you can haggle and get different unique items.
Also, check out Doffers Tie Dyers, Water Power Tour, and Time Traveller Tour, offering you an opportunity to tour the Mill with a costumed guide.
This four-storied tourist attraction also has a museum with numerous old machines in its basement.
Address: BELPER MILL, Derbyshire, Belper DE56 1BE, United Kingdom
2. Derby Cathedral
Derby Cathedral
One of the top things to do in Derby, Derbyshire, is to explore Derby Cathedral. Derby Cathedral rises above the city as the second-highest perpendicular church tower in the country.
The Cathedral is an intriguing place to visit, and you will be shocked to realize how airy and light it is.
The Derby Cathedral building has a gorgeous interior and exterior. The calm and quiet atmosphere invites guests to reflect and contemplate.
The complex Bakewell Screen is one of the Cathedral’s main features, but it has other treasures you will discover when you visit.
You can listen out for the bells; there are the oldest bells in the world. One of them was cast during the reign of Henry VIII and is still used even now.
Address: 18-19 Iron Gate, Derby DE1 3GP, United Kingdom
3. Kedleston Hall
Kedleston Hall
On your list of what to do in Derby, Derbyshire, should be an exploration of Kedleston Hall. Kedleston Hall takes visitors on a trip back in time to the 1760s
Established for lavish entertainment and displaying a vast collection of paintings, original furnishing, and sculpture, Kedleston is a gorgeous example of the work of architect Robert Adam.
This attraction is a traditional English house with a well-made neoclassical interior. The hall has 21 heavily embellished columns and-story buildings linked through corridors. The rooms at Kedleston Hall are well-furnished and showcase captivating paintings.
The Curzon family has resided in this house since the 12th century and is still living here. Lord Curzon’s Eastern Museum features beautiful objects from his travels in Asia.
Kedleston Hall was a significant location for the Film “The Duchess ” and “Tarzan” featuring Samuel L. Jackson and Alexander Skarsgard.
It would help if you did not miss the chance to stroll the 800 acres of parkland. Although dogs are allowed, they must be on a leash.
Address: Derby DE22 5JH, United Kingdom
4. Foremark Reservoir
Foremark Reservoir
You can go walking, birdwatching, fishing, and horseback riding at Foremark Reservoir. Additionally, you can spend your evening relaxing in the park while enjoying the view of the water.
Although entry to Foremark Reservoir is free, you have to pay for parking. Foremark Reservoir has twenty-seven varieties of butterflies, including white-letter hairstreak, large skipper, speckled wood, holly blue, brown argus, and holly blue.
The Reservoir is filled with trout and is open to anglers between the end of March to the middle of December.
One reason for the plenty of fish may be due to the abundance of aquatic invertebrates, including great diving beetles, dragonfly larvae, water scorpions, silver diving beetles, and ponds skaters.
Foremark Reservoir is one of the best places to visit in Derby, Derbyshire.
Address: Unnamed Road, Derby DE65 6EG, United Kingdom
5. Markeaton Park
Markeaton Park
One of the best things to do in Derby, Derbyshire, is to view the scenery at Markeaton Park.
Markeaton Park is one of the most visited parks in Derby and one of the most well-known attractions in the East Midlands.
Markeaton Park is located at the edge of the city, offering an escape for visitors and residents living in Derby.
Visiting Markeaton Park offers a taste of what it feels like to live in the countryside. The Park features amenities such as a paddling pool, a wide play area, crazy golf, a bouncy castle, donkey rides, a boating lake, a light railway, and bike tracks.
Mar Keaton Park also has an obstacle course called Skyline High Ropes, where children and adults can play.
This attraction is an ideal place for a lovely afternoon picnic.
Address: Markeaton Ln, Derby DE22 4AA, United Kingdom
6. Genting Casino Derby
Getting Casino Derby is a fun destination in the heart of Derby where you can play, eat and stay by the river.
If you are looking for something exceptional to do on a night out or a new experience, you should visit this place.
If you love the style, thrills, and energy of casino gaming and the opportunity to test your skills against fellow betters, this place is for you.
Getting Casion Derby offers a bar that features snacks, drinks, and table games. Visitors can enjoy playing in the casino, sipping drinks, and having a great time with friends.
Address: Derby Riverlights, Morledge, Derby DE1 2AY, United Kingdom
7. Derby Market Hall
Derby Market Hall
Even if you have no plans to go shopping, you should drop by Derby Market for the experience. Derby Market Hall is one of the city’s most incredible hidden gems.
The foundation of Derby Market Hall was laid in February 1864, and the market was officially opened for public use in 1866.
The Market is a hub for local businesses. Different sellers offer a vast range of homegrown food, vintage, flowers, clothing, retro toys, hair and beauty services, and Craft items in a huge building.
Derby Market Hall offers guests a taste of authentic shopping.
Address: Tennant St, Derby DE1 2DB, United Kingdom
England holds some cool attractions and activities, check out our guides on things to do in Swindon, as well as things to do in Chichester and things to do in Cleethorpes for a memorable time here.
8. Donington Park
Donington Park
Donington Park is one of the most historic race tracks in the United Kingdom and around the globe.
There are many car and bike races that take place here all around the year. The first motorcycle race took place in 1931. In 1993, it held the third round of the formula one season, later becoming the biggest race of all time.
Donnington Park has held popular events such as Donnington Historic Festivals, Trust Racing, Britsh Superbikes, Motorcycle Festivals, Trust Racing, Donnington Classic Motorcycle Festival, and Master Festival.
Address: Donington Park, Castle Donington, Derby DE74 2RP, United Kingdom
9. Pickford’s House
Pickford’s House
This attraction is the family home of Joseph Pickford, a Georgian architect. The Museum showcases England’s domestic life from 1700 to 1900.
This fascinating museum is located a short stroll from the city center. You are free to explore the four floors of Pickford House.
This Museum is exceptionally unique; it has servants that will treat you like their master so you can experience what the master-servant relationship looked like in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Many exhibitions happen at Pickford House. It also boasts a vast collection of antiques. Entry and parking are free at Pickford House.
Address: 41 Friar Gate, Derby DE1 1DA, United Kingdom
10. Rowley’s Gin Bar
Rowley’s Gin Bar is located near Derby Cathedral. The bar offers its visitors British cuisine and delicious wine and whiskies.
The bar is popular for its fantastic services and friendly staff that are always willing to help.
Rowley’s Grin Bar is one of the oldest and most well-known bars in Derby and boasts a comfortable ambiance.
The bar has a wide rum collection for diners to select from. Additionally, you can pre-book and delight in rum-tasting sessions at Rowley’s Gin Bar.
The staff is patient and will always tell you about the different drinks offered. The prices at Rowley’s Gin Bar are affordable.
Address: 2-3 Queen Street Irongate, Derby DE1 3DL, England
11. East Midlands Aeropark
East Midlands Aeropark
East Midlands Aeropark is a thriving International passenger and freight airport where you can watch modern airliners take off and land while studying the well-maintained planes of the past.
With indoor and outdoor spaces, this aviation museum showcases various historic engines and aircraft.
British Companies manufacture most of the post-war aircraft and helicopters outside.
The Armstrong Whitworth AW.660 Argosy is among the most reputable of the 30 aircrafts that may be showcased at any time.
This attraction is filled with parts, including Gyron Junion, Rolls-Royce Spey engines, Bristol Hercules, models, pictures, and a Link Simulator.
Address:Hill Top, Castle Donington, Derby DE74 2PR, United Kingdom
12. Royal Crown Derby
Royal Crown Derby
The Royal Crown Derby Porcelain Company is among the oldest surviving English porcelain manufacturers.
The company, famous for its high-quality bone china, has manufactured ornamental items and tableware since 1750.
The company was recognized as Derby Porcelain until 1775 when King George III bestowed the factory the honor of being able to add a crown into its back stamp, therefore becoming Cfosn Derby.
In 1890, Queen Victoria granted Crown Derby the royal warrant, and the company was given a new name, Royal Crown Derby.
Exquisite fine bone china, creative designs that set trends, quality customer service, and unmatched quality are the signature mark of this company.
Royal Crown Derby has built a reputation for over 270 years by serving distinguished customers like royal families, famous hotels, and restaurants around the globe.
Address: 194 Osmaston Rd, Derby DE23 8JZ, United Kingdom
13. Derbion
Derbion
This shopping mall was previously known as Intu Derby. Derbion is a lively hub of retail, leisure, and dining facilities. It is home to some of the biggest brands in the world, with many eateries and entertainment.
Derbion has an eye-catching lineup of famous brands with more than 200 household names, including Zara, Next, Mango, Hugo Boss, Lush, JD Sport, and Whistles.
The shopping mall is also home to a food terrace, various restaurants, the Showcase Cinema de Lux, Paradise Island Adventure Golf, and the 640-seat Derby cinema.
Address: London Rd, Derby DE1 2PL, United Kingdom
14. Derby Museum and Art Gallery
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
One of the top things to do in Derby, Derbyshire, if you are curious about Derby’s cultural heritage and richness, is to visit Derby Museum and Art Gallery.
Derby Art and Gallery is situated at the center of Derby City in the cultural Cathedral Quarter.
Derby Museum and Art Gallery is home to an exceptional collection of Derby porcelain, showcasing archaeology, national history, geology, world culture, and military history.
Additionally, the Museum displays a gallery of internationally important paintings of world-famous artist Joseph Wright of Derby, a new display of portraits from the museum’s extensive collection, and an animated program of temporary exhibits.
The Museum also showcases a painting of Joseph Wright of Derby and a large display of Derby’s royal crown.
Address: The Strand, Derby DE1 1BS, United Kingdom
15. Mercia Marina
Mercia Marina
Mercia Marina is Europe’s biggest inland marina spanning 74 acres of countryside with wildlife and walks. It is home to several modern country-style cottages near the waterside.
The Boardwalk and the Piazza offer notable boutique retailers, dining options overlooking the moorings, and an art gallery.
Aside from fantastic food and shopping, you can participate in a canal boat trip along the Mersey and Trent Canal to different places between Stenson and Willington on the Mercia Swan.
Vacation and holiday lodges are also available in the concealed countryside while looking out over the peaceful waters of the marina.
Each lodge has a perfect finish and will provide everything you need to relax during your stay. Mercia Marina is a fantastic place to stroll while viewing the water and boat.
Guests can also take part in activities such as birdwatching and boating. Mercia Marina is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Derby, Derbyshire.
Address: Findern Ln, Willington, Derby DE65 6DW, United Kingdom
Explore other cities of England, check out our list of things to do in Tewkesbury, and things to do in Watford.
16. Derby Ghostwalk and Jail
Derby Ghostwalk and Jail
The Derby Ghostwalk and Jail is a must-try when visiting the city. This world-famous ghost walk operates all through the year.
The Derby Jail offers two varieties of ghost walks which include the Friar Gate Ghost Walk and the New City Center Ghost Walk.
The attraction also has a police museum that offers haunted stories of things that occurred in jail.
Additionally, Derby Ghostwalk and Jail tell stories of more than one century of policing, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts and items.
Address: 50-51 Friar Gate, Derby DE1 1DF, United Kingdom
17. Derby QUAD
Derby QUAD
This tourist attraction is an art center in Derby and was first opened on September 2008.
Derby QUAD provides three cinemas, an art gallery, a café bar, and an artist’s studio. The center also has a space where individuals can make their artwork.
Quad links people and businesses to film and art for entertainment, participation, and education.
The public can rent the artists’ studio. At the same time, the cinema offers a range of motion pictures, from old silent movies to the latest modern production.
Address: Market Place Cathedral Quarter, Market Pl, Derby DE1 3AS, United Kingdom
18. Shalimar Gold
Shalimar Gold
A visit to Shalimar Gold should be added to your checklist of what to do in Derby, Derbyshire.
Shalimar Gold is one of the top-notch restaurants in Derby. This well-loved Indian restaurant has been running in Midland for over 40 years.
Shalimar Gold offers a fantastic setting, flawless service, mouth-watering food, and the friendliest welcome.
An original look into traditional Indian Food is offered by Shalimar Gold’s meaningful menu, which is made by their award-winning chef using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
You can also spot captivating artwork, custom-made furniture, and poems; all put together in a delicate layout of comfortable rooms.
Address: 15 Midland Rd, DE DE1 2SN, United Kingdom
19. Heights of Abraham
Heights of Abraham
The Height of Abraham is a tourist destination in Matlock, 32 minutes from Derby. It is made up of a hilltop park on top of Masson Hill and can be accessed from the village by a steep zigzag path or the Height of Abraham cable car.
The heights are named due to the supposed likeness to the Plains of Abraham, also called the Height of Abraham, in Quebec, Canada.
Among the attractions in the height of Abraham, which have been around since the Victorian ages, are the mine tours and the cavern.
The cable car was opened in 1984 to make access to the Park less stressful. You can also watch a film screening at the High Fall Film Theatre and look at the exhibition at the Masson Pavilion.
Additionally, there are two adventure playgrounds where children can play and enjoy the view. The Height of Abraham includes a heritage estate, a fossil factory, and walking paths.
Furthermore, this tourist attraction has gift shops and cafes. If you have any pets, they are welcome at the Height of Abraham.
Address:Dale Rd, Matlock DE4 3NT, United Kingdom
20. Calke Abbey
Calke Abbey
This attraction is a Grade I-listed clumsy house in Derby that the National Trust controls.
The area was an Augustinian priory from the 12th century until it was dissolved by Henry VIII.
The current building, Calke Abbey, was not an abbey but a Baroque mansion constructed between 1701 to 1704.
The Harpur Family owned the house for nearly 300 years before it was passed to the National Trust in 1985.
The house is open to the public for tours. Many of its rooms are purposely displayed in the state of decomposition in which the house was given to the Trust.
You can also walk through the garden, lakes, and surrounding woods. Calke Abbey has a large playground for kids, and the fallen trees are exciting for them to play with.
Address: Ticknall, Derby DE73 7JF, United Kingdom
21. Crich Tramway Village
Crich Tramway Village
Crich Tramway Village is located 30 minutes outside of Derby. This tourist attraction is a national tram museum with more than 60 trams.
The Museum is set within a remade village home to a café, working pub, tram depots, and old-style sweet shops.
Guest can be moved from one mile into the village on another tram, and every 10 minutes, you can see a tram.
Crich Tramway Village can be regarded as a live historical museum.
It has a large play area and is fun to go with family and entertain children.
Address: Crich, Matlock DE4 5DP, United Kingdom
22. Swarkestone Bridge
Swarkestone Bridge
Swarkestone Bridge is constructed with sandstone and surrounded by marshes. It has 17 arches, and six have remained untouched since the medieval ages.
There are several stories about Swarkestone Bridge being hunted by ghosts, from Civil War horse riders to the many people who drowned in the river at the bridge.
Furthermore, you can see proof of defense, such as tank traps build during WW2.
Swarkestone Bridge is considered to be the longest stone bridge in the country. Guests can enjoy a one-mile ride on the bridge with a view of waters running on each side.
Address: Swarkestone Bridge, Derby DE73 7HX, United Kingdom
23. Pride Park Stadium
Pride Park Stadium
Pride Park Stadium is one of the 20th largest football Stadiums in England. The stadium has a 33,597 capacity.
Aside from home games, Pride Park Stadium is used for various non-matchday activities, including weddings, conferences, and sporting activities.
Recently, the stadium has held concerts by leading international music artists, international friendly matches, and monster trucks.
Pride Park Museum has held two international matches, England V. Mexico in 2001, Brazil V. Ukraine in 2002, and numerous England under-21 matches.
The stadium was also the venue of the Women’s FA Cup Final in 2009. If you visit Derby during football season, you have a high chance of finding tickets.
Address: Derby DE24 8XL, United Kingdom
24. Darley Park
Darley Park
Darley Park is a wide, eye-catching, and popular park within walking distance of the city’s center.
The Park has an area of 80 acres and forms the most significant part of Darley Open Spaces.
Darley Park is a serene place to escape city life. The Park hosts several events throughout the year, including the classical Darley Park Concert.
Darley Park was established in 1921 on the same date as Markeaton Park. It is popular for its floral beds.
The Park is home to four hundred various hydrangeas. The Hydrangea Derby Project is assisted by volunteers who plant, preserve and catalog the collection.
Open days are held every summer to display the collection, and a free guided tour is offered.
There is a butterfly garden close to the hydrangeas collection, featuring butterflies in the summer months.
You should visit Darley Park and admire the stunning sights.
Address: Darley Abbey, Derby DE22 1EN, United Kingdom
25. Denby Pottery Village
Situated 20 minutes from Derby, Denby Pottery produces cookware, dining accessories, and tableware.
Guests can attempt to make their pottery at the Denby Pottery Village Craft Studio.
There’s also the choice to explore Denby Pottery Village Museum and learn about their two-century pottery-making journey.
Additionally, an on-site restaurant serves dishes with tableware manufactured by Denby Pottery. Finally, you can buy unique souvenirs at Denby Pottery Village if you like.
Address: Derby Rd, Ripley DE5 8NX, United Kingdom
Planning a road trip in England, check out our guide on things to do in Huntingdon, things to do in Basildon, and things to do in Crewe for a fun time, create your bucket list now!.
Plan Your Trip to Derby
Derby is an excellent place for a vacation and a fantastic place to explore, with so many attractions. The town is welcoming and easy to get around.
You will feel welcomed throughout your stay when you visit this gorgeous city.
With stunning surrounding countryside, lots of fun bars and pubs, and many family-friendly activities to keep children happy, you will get great value for your time and money.