Derby's Delights: A Memorable 4-Day Family Adventure

Discover the charm of Derby: where family memories are made!

19 July 2023

Derby, located in the heart of England, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. With its rich history and vibrant culture, families can explore attractions like the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, which offers interactive exhibitions and educational programs for children. The city is also surrounded by breathtaking countryside, perfect for outdoor activities and picnics, making Derby an ideal destination for a memorable and enjoyable family getaway.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Historic Heart

  • Start the day at Derby Museum and Art Gallery, a treasure trove of local culture and history.
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Derby Arboretum, England's first public park.
  • Enjoy a quintessential British afternoon tea at Betty's Tea Room, a charming vintage spot.
  • Immerse yourself in Derby Cathedral's Gothic grandeur, complete with stunning stained glass windows.
  • Finish with a visit to the buzzing Intu Derby shopping center for some retail therapy.
Day 2

A Family Adventure

  • Dive into a thrilling day at the fantastic Alton Towers Theme Park, just a short drive from Derby.
  • Take a scenic hike through the enchanting Derbyshire countryside in the Peak District National Park.
  • Learn about aviation history at the fascinating RAF Museum in nearby Staffordshire.
  • Discover the unique underwater world at the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham.
  • Enjoy a delicious family dinner at the quirky Good Souls Family Restaurant, serving mouthwatering comfort food.
Day 3

Unveiling Industrial Heritage

  • Explore the fascinating Derby Silk Mill, birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.
  • Take a trip back in time at the Midland Railway Butterley, riding vintage steam trains and exploring Victorian workshops.
  • Uncover the engineering marvels at the Derby Industrial Museum, showcasing the city's manufacturing heritage.
  • Visit the Derby Gaol, a former prison dating back to the 16th century, for a chilling glimpse into the past.
  • Dine at The Docks Eatery, a trendy waterfront restaurant serving eclectic dishes inspired by global flavors.
Day 4

Cultural Delights

  • Immerse yourself in art at the QUAD art gallery and cinema, showcasing contemporary masterpieces and indie films.
  • Discover the vibrant world of street art at the Banks Mill Studios, where artists create unique urban pieces.
  • Venture to Kedleston Hall, a stunning neoclassical mansion surrounded by picturesque gardens.
  • Indulge in a delicious lunch at The Old Bell Hotel, a historic coaching inn offering traditional British cuisine.
  • End the day with a leisurely cruise along the serene Derby Canal, soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.

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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