Derby Delights: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget

Discover family fun in Derby, where heritage meets adventure!

19 July 2023

A trip to Derby, United Kingdom offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with a mix of historical attractions and outdoor adventures. Explore the fascinating history at Derby Museum and Art Gallery, where kids can engage in interactive exhibits and learn about the city's industrial past. Enjoy a day out at Markeaton Park, offering playgrounds, a splash pad, and scenic walks to keep everyone entertained.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discover Derby Delights

  • Check into The Littleover Lodge Hotel, a family-friendly haven with cozy rooms and delicious on-site dining.
  • Start the day with a visit to the quirky Darley Abbey Mills, where you can marvel at the historic mill buildings and indulge in some retail therapy at the charming shops.
  • Get your creative juices flowing at the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, home to an eclectic collection of art, ceramics, and natural history exhibits that will leave your little ones wide-eyed.
  • Head to the Markeaton Park for a leisurely stroll amidst sprawling greenery and vibrant flowerbeds, while the kids burn off energy at the adventure playground or splash around in the paddling pool.
  • Treat your taste buds at The Wonky Table, a charming eatery where imaginative dishes are made using ingredients sourced from local suppliers it's like a flavor explosion in your mouth!
  • End the day at The Quad, an independent cinema and arts center where you can catch a family-friendly movie or immerse yourself in thought-provoking exhibitions.
Day 2

Step into the Past

  • Embark on a thrilling journey to the past with an unforgettable visit to the magnificent Chatsworth House, an architectural marvel surrounded by stunning gardens, lush woodlands, and a delightful farmyard for kids to meet adorable animals.
  • Take a walk along the serene River Derwent, relishing the calming atmosphere and picturesque views that inspired great writers like Daniel Defoe.
  • Treat your taste buds to a lip-smacking lunch at The Forge Inn, a charming pub that offers a scrumptious mix of traditional British dishes and modern culinary delights.
  • Immerse yourself in history at the Derby Silk Mill, the world's oldest surviving factory, known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Explore interactive exhibits, hands-on workshops, and fascinating displays.
  • Unleash your competitive side with a few rounds of mini-golf at Morley Hayes Golf Course, where you can perfect your swing amidst idyllic settings.
  • Conclude your adventure-filled day with a delicious dinner at The Bubble Inn, a family-friendly restaurant that serves a mouthwatering range of dishes, from classic pub fare to creative vegetarian options.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Derby by plane is to fly into East Midlands Airport, located approximately 13 miles away from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to reach Derby.

Car

If you prefer to drive to Derby, you can take the M1 motorway if coming from the south or north. From the east, you can use the A52 or A50 roads, or from the west, the A38. Derby is well-connected by road and offers parking facilities in the city center and at various attractions.

Train

To reach Derby by train, you can take a direct train from many major cities in the UK. The main train station in Derby is Derby Midland Station, located in the city center. There are frequent and convenient connections from cities like London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Nottingham.

Boat

Derby is an inland city, so there are no direct boat routes available. However, you can still enjoy boat trips on the nearby Trent and Mersey Canal or the River Derwent, which offer scenic routes and leisure activities.

Bus

To travel to Derby by bus, you can use National Express or other regional bus services. There are several bus stops in Derby, including the Derby Bus Station in Morledge, which offers connections to various cities and towns throughout the UK.

Destination

Derby

Welcome to the land where everyone is a horse racing expert and a lover of tea! Derby is a city that combines the two in a way that will make your horse neigh and your taste buds sing.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

A Day Trip to Derby: History & Adventure

Derby, United Kingdom is a wonderful destination for tourists seeking a mix of urban and rural attractions. Visitors can explore the vibrant city center's historic landmarks, such as the Derby Cathedral and the Pickford's House Museum, before venturing out to the nearby Peak District National Park for outdoor adventures. Whether strolling through picturesque gardens, attending a football game at Pride Park Stadium, or indulging in famous Derbyshire cuisine, there's never a dull moment in this lively town.

Derby Delights: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget

A trip to Derby, United Kingdom offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with a mix of historical attractions and outdoor adventures. Explore the fascinating history at Derby Museum and Art Gallery, where kids can engage in interactive exhibits and learn about the city's industrial past. Enjoy a day out at Markeaton Park, offering playgrounds, a splash pad, and scenic walks to keep everyone entertained.

Weekend in Derby: City Sights & Country Charm

A trip to Derby, United Kingdom as a tourist offers many exciting opportunities to explore the city's rich history and contemporary charm. Visitors can enjoy taking a stroll through the town center, savoring delicious local cuisine, and admiring attractions such as the Derby Cathedral and Derby Museum and Art Gallery. The city’s vibrant nightlife scene, diverse shopping outlets, and beautifully landscaped parks add to its appeal, attracting tourists from across the globe.

Derby on a Budget: Adventure, Art, and Eats

A trip to Derby, United Kingdom on a limited budget presents an opportunity to explore the city's rich history and culture without breaking the bank. Check out the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, followed by a stroll through the city's stunning parks and gardens, such as Markeaton and Darley Park. For a budget-friendly stay, consider homestays or hostels located in the city centre, with easy access to public transportation.