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 3.8
    10 photos

    Derby Station Hotel

    3.8 (1118)

    21 Midland Rd, Derby DE1 2SL, UK

    Lodging,Restaurant

    Colourful rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi in a no-nonsense hotel offering a lounge bar.

    Learn more
    , a historic building with a great location and affordable prices
  • Visit the Derby Museum and Art Gallery 4.6
    10 photos

    Derby Museum & Art Gallery

    4.6 (1262)

    The Strand, Derby DE1 1BS, UK

    Museum,Tourist attraction

    Free entry to modern space with collections on regional natural and military history and fine art.

    derbymuseums.org

    Learn more
    , where you can explore the city's history and admire local artwork
  • Take a stroll around the Cathedral Quarter 4.3
    10 photos

    Cathedral Quarter Derby

    4.3 (1258)

    2nd Floor, 12 The Strand, Derby DE1 1BA, UK

    Shopping mall,Museum

    derbycathedralquarter.co.uk

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    , known for its stunning architecture and charming boutiques
  • Enjoy a delicious pub lunch at the Exeter Arms 4.6
    10 photos

    Exeter Arms

    4.6 (1598) • $$

    Exeter Pl, Derby DE1 2EU, UK

    Restaurant,Food

    Traditional real ale pub with quizzes, live music and a Modern British menu with a global twist.

    exeterarms.co.uk

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    , a cozy spot with classic British fare
  • Cap off the day with a peaceful walk through Markeaton Park 4.5
    10 photos

    Markeaton Park

    4.5 (5168)

    Markeaton Ln, Derby DE22 4AA, UK

    Park,Tourist attraction

    Public space with a craft village, gardens, boating lake, kids' play area plus sporting facilities.

    inderby.org.uk

    Learn more
    , a beautiful green space ideal for relaxation
Day 2

Exploring the Outdoors

  • Wake up early and catch a bus to the Peak District 4.8
    10 photos

    Peak District National Park

    4.8 (31600)

    United Kingdom

    Park,Point of interest

    Large year-round recreation area encompassing villages, museums, hiking trails & camping.

    peakdistrict.gov.uk

    Learn more
    , a stunning national park just outside of Derby
  • Hike to the top of Mam Tor 4.8
    10 photos

    Mam Tor

    4.8 (1277)

    Mam Tor, Hope Valley S33 8WA, UK

    Natural feature,Establishment

    Landmark hill & hiking spot popular with families, known for its striking valley panoramas.

    Learn more
    , a fast climb with unbeatable views of the surrounding hills
  • Refuel with a picnic lunch at Ladybower Reservoir 4.8
    10 photos

    Ladybower Reservoir

    4.8 (1602)

    Ladybower Reservoir, Hope Valley S33, UK

    Natural feature,Establishment

    Reservoir bordered by scenic countryside & trails for easy to challenging nature walks & hikes.

    Learn more
    , 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 4.3
    10 photos

    Derby Brewing Tap House

    4.3 (1101) • $$

    1 Derwent St, Derby DE1 2ED, UK

    Bar,Point of interest

    Real ales and locally sourced food in an airy pub with a roof terrace overlooking the River Derwent.

    brewerytap-dbc.co.uk

    Learn more
    , a trendy local brewery
  • Enjoy a cozy dinner at The Wonky Table 4.5
    10 photos

    The Wonky Table Restaurant

    4.5 (369) • $$

    32-33 Sadler Gate, Derby DE1 3NR, UK

    Bar,Restaurant

    Family-run establishment serving European fare and drinks on 2 rustic, relaxed floors plus terrace.

    wonkytable.co.uk

    Learn more
    , 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 4.9
    3 photos

    Wildflower Cafe

    4.9 (20)

    Victoria Rd, Draycott, Derby DE72 3PS, UK

    Cafe,Food

    hmcateringservices.co.uk

    Learn more
    , a charming spot with tasty pastries and coffee
  • Hit up the Derby Market Hall 3.9
    10 photos

    Derby Market Hall

    3.9 (844)

    Tennant St, Derby DE1 2DB, UK

    Point of interest,Establishment

    derbymarkethall.co.uk

    Learn more
    , 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 4.6
    10 photos

    Pickford's House

    4.6 (304)

    41 Friar Gate, Derby DE1 1DA, UK

    Museum,Tourist attraction

    Exhibitions on 18th-century life and historic costume in a local architect's 1770 house and garden.

    derbymuseums.org

    Learn more
    , a well-preserved Georgian townhouse with interesting exhibits
  • Enjoy an affordable dinner at the quirky Bean Caffe 4.7
    10 photos

    BEAN at Friargate Studios

    4.7 (200) • $$

    Friar Gate Studios (Opposite, the "Copper Building, Ford St, Derby DE1 1EE, UK

    Cafe,Store

    Easygoing cafe with modern decor, turning out seasonal grub, fair trade coffee and homemade cakes.

    beanderby.com

    Learn more
    , a cozy cafe with vegan options
Day 4

Historic Villages and A Michelin Star Meal

  • Take a short drive to the village of Mickleover
    10 photos

    Mickleover

    Mickleover, Derby, UK

    Sublocality level 1,Sublocality

    Learn more
    , known for its historic buildings and charming atmosphere
  • Visit the National Trust property, Kedleston Hall 4.6
    10 photos

    National Trust - Kedleston Hall

    4.6 (4109) • $$

    Derby DE22 5JH, UK

    Park,Tourist attraction

    18th-century country house with Robert Adam interiors and outdoor theatre/cinema in the summer.

    nationaltrust.org.uk

    Learn more
    , 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
    10 photos

    Allestree

    Allestree, Derby DE22 2FF, UK

    Sublocality level 1,Sublocality

    Learn more
    , known for its picturesque park and historic buildings
  • Return to Derby and end your trip with a pint at Vines 4.1
    10 photos

    Vines Bar

    4.1 (248) • $

    51A Sadler Gate, Derby DE1 3NQ, UK

    Bar,Point of interest

    Buzzing nightclub and cocktail bar with weekly house, techno and funk nights, plus a garden area.

    vinesbar.com

    Learn more
    , a cozy bar with a great selection of beers and wines.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

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

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.

Destination

Derby

Welcome to the land where everyone is a horse racing expert and a lover of tea! Derby is a city that combines the two in a way that will make your horse neigh and your taste buds sing.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

4 Days of Fun in Derby, UK

Derby, United Kingdom is a vibrant city with a rich history and a wealth of cultural attractions. Visitors can explore historic sites like Derby Cathedral and the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, or take a stroll through one of the city's lovely parks or green spaces. With a thriving culinary scene, sporting and entertainment events throughout the year, and easy access to the Peak District National Park, Derby is an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the best of British culture and hospitality.

Weekend in Derby: City Sights & Country Charm

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.

Derby on a Budget: Adventure, Art, and Eats

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.

Unleash Romance on a 2-Day Derby Escape.

Derby, United Kingdom offers a picturesque and tranquil destination for a romantic getaway. Visitors can enjoy charming walks alongside the River Derwent or take a leisurely cruise on the canal boats. The city also boasts stunning historic buildings, such as the Derby Cathedral, which provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.