Derby on a Budget: Adventure, Art, and Eats

Explore the charm of Derby without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Derby

Check into the Derby Midland Hotel, a historic building with a great location and affordable prices
Visit the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, where you can explore the city's history and admire local artwork
Take a stroll around the Cathedral Quarter, known for its stunning architecture and charming boutiques
Enjoy a delicious pub lunch at the Exeter Arms, a cozy spot with classic British fare
Cap off the day with a peaceful walk through Markeaton Park, a beautiful green space ideal for relaxation

Day 2

Exploring the Outdoors

Wake up early and catch a bus to the Peak District, a stunning national park just outside of Derby
Hike to the top of Mam Tor, a fast climb with unbeatable views of the surrounding hills
Refuel with a picnic lunch at Ladybower Reservoir, a picturesque spot with plenty of bird-watching opportunities
Take a scenic drive back to Derby and unwind with a pint at The Tap Room, a trendy local brewery
Enjoy a cozy dinner at The Wonky Table, a quirky eatery with unique decor and delicious food

Day 3

Thrifty Shopping and Urban Art

Start the day with breakfast at Wild Poppy Cafe, a charming spot with tasty pastries and coffee
Hit up the Derby Market Hall, a bustling indoor marketplace with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to clothing
Take a walk around the city to discover some of its best street art, including the impressive "Night & Day" mural
Visit the Pickford's House Museum, a well-preserved Georgian townhouse with interesting exhibits
Enjoy an affordable dinner at the quirky Bean Caffe, a cozy cafe with vegan options

Day 4

Historic Villages and A Michelin Star Meal

Take a short drive to the village of Mickleover, known for its historic buildings and charming atmosphere
Visit the National Trust property, Kedleston Hall, a stunning Georgian mansion with beautiful gardens and architecture
Treat yourself to a Michelin star lunch at L'Ortolan, a fine-dining restaurant with exceptional food and service
Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby village of Allestree, known for its picturesque park and historic buildings
Return to Derby and end your trip with a pint at Vines, a cozy bar with a great selection of beers and wines.

Length of stay

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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