Weekend in Derby: City Sights & Country Charm
Experience the heart of the Midlands in Derby, UK.
03 May 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Check into the Cathedral Quarter Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of the city
- Take a stroll through Markeaton Park, admiring the gardens and lake
- Visit the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, home to the world’s largest collection of Joseph Wright paintings
- Explore the charming streets of the Cathedral Quarter, with its independent shops and cafes
- Head to Darley Abbey Mills, a historic mill complex filled with artisan shops and cafes
- Dine at The Wonky Table, a quirky restaurant serving up delicious seasonal dishes
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Becketts, a cosy cafe in the city centre
- Visit the Heights of Abraham, a hilltop park with a cable car and stunning views over the Peak District National Park
- Go on a scenic drive through the Peak District, stopping at picturesque villages along the way
- Relax at Buxton Thermal Baths, a historic spa with natural mineral water and luxurious treatments
- Stop for dinner at The Devonshire Arms, a traditional pub with hearty food and a cosy atmosphere
- Return to the Cathedral Quarter Hotel for a nightcap in its stylish bar
- Derby may not be on everyone’s radar, but it’s a hidden gem filled with history, culture, and charm. With this itinerary, you can experience the best of both worlds: the bustling city and the peaceful countryside. From Joseph Wright paintings to natural mineral water, Derby has something for everyone.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.