Derbyshire Delight: The Ultimate 2 Day Adventure

Discover the charming history and culture of Derby without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Derby on a limited budget can be an exciting experience for those looking to explore the historic city. While there are several free museums and galleries to check out, budget-friendly options for food and accommodation are also available. Don't forget to take a stroll through the tranquil Derby Arboretum or take a hike up the nearby hills for a panoramic view of the city.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Derby

  • Check in at the easy-on-pocket Ibis Budget Hotel for a comfortable stay.
  • Begin the day with a trip to the Derby Museum and Art Gallery.
  • Walk through the historic Darley Park and admire its lake, flower gardens and trees.
  • Visit the Derby Cathedral, an impressive piece of architecture and a religious icon.
  • Indulge in some shopping at the intimate Derby Market Hall, filled with local goods.
  • End the day at the quirky and welcoming Olde Dolphin Inne, where you can taste a range of English ales and pub fare.
Day 2

Action-packed Derby Day

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at The Docks Eatery, known for its delicious vegan options.
  • Explore the heights of the Derbyshire countryside by taking a hot air balloon ride.
  • Learn about the history of engineering at the Derby Silk Mill – the world’s first factory.
  • Next, head to the Peak District National Park and walk through the enchanting countryside of Ilam Park.
  • Cap off the day with a cozy dinner at the comfortable Nando's, perfect for taste bud-tickling peri-peri chicken dishes.
  • These two days in Derby will give you a perfect taster of what it has got to offer. From art, architecture and engineering, to scenic walks and exciting activities, there is something for everyone. You can rest assured that your budget doesn't have to keep you from getting the full Derbyshire experience.

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.

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