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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
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.

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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