Derby: 5-Day Adventure in England's East Midlands

Experience the charm and heritage of Derby, UK, one step at a time.

22 April 2023

Derby is a charming city located in the East Midlands region of England known for its rich history, culture and beautiful landscapes. As a tourist, you will be able to explore the city's many landmarks such as the Derby Cathedral, Derby Museum and Art Gallery, and the impressive Derby Silk Mill. Additionally, there are several parks and gardens to enjoy, as well as a variety of shopping and dining experiences to indulge in.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Derby's Quirky Side

  • Stay at the eccentric Great Northern Hotel, with its themed rooms and cozy bar.
  • Start the day with a visit to the quirky Pickford's House museum, which showcases local history and art.
  • Head to the Derby Museum and Art Gallery to admire the Joseph Wright paintings and the natural history section.
  • Take a stroll through the charming streets of Cathedral Quarter, where you'll find quaint shops and cafes.
  • Enjoy a hearty lunch at The Wonky Table, a restaurant with a fun and laid-back vibe.
  • Finish the day with a pint at the quirky Ye Olde Dolphin Inne, one of the oldest pubs in Derby.
Day 2

Exploring the Great Outdoors

  • Drive to the stunning Peak District National Park, just a short ride from Derby.
  • Hike to the breathtaking Kinder Scout plateau, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the countryside.
  • Visit the Chatsworth House estate, which has beautiful gardens and an impressive art collection.
  • Go rock climbing or caving at the High Peak Rocks adventure park.
  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at the popular Mercia Restaurant, which serves modern British cuisine.
  • Return to the Great Northern Hotel for a nightcap at the quirky bar.
Day 3

Learning Local History

  • Start the day with a tour of Derby's historic Silk Mill, where the first factory in the world was built.
  • Visit the Derby Gaol, a museum and attraction showcasing the city's prison history.
  • Take a walk down Friar Gate, one of Derby's oldest and most picturesque streets.
  • Explore the stunning architecture of the Derby Cathedral, and attend one of its regular services.
  • Have lunch at the beautiful and historic Cathedral Cafe, which offers delicious baked goods and coffee.
  • Finish the day with a pint at the popular Silk Mill Ale and Cider House, which stocks over 50 different brews.
Day 4

Shopping and Sightseeing

  • Spend the day exploring the wide selection of shops and boutiques at the Intu Derby shopping centre.
  • Visit the Derby Arena, a state-of-the-art venue for cycling and other sporting events.
  • Take a stroll through the serene Markeaton Park, which has beautiful gardens and a miniature railway.
  • Visit the Derby Theatre, which has a varied calendar of plays, music and comedy shows.
  • Have dinner at the atmospheric Weavers Bar and Eatery, which boasts a unique decor and a varied menu.
  • Return to the Great Northern Hotel to enjoy live music and drinks at the quirky bar.
Day 5

Relaxing in Style

  • Spend the day enjoying the spa facilities and treatments at the luxurious Derby Spa.
  • Treat yourself to a decadent afternoon tea at the elegant Darleys restaurant, which overlooks the River Derwent.
  • Take a leisurely walk down the picturesque banks of the river, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Watch a movie at the Odeon Luxe Derby, a state-of-the-art cinema with comfortable seating and top-notch technology.
  • Have dinner at the chic and trendy Aqua Shard restaurant, which boasts a beautiful view of the city skyline.
  • Return to the Great Northern Hotel for one last nightcap at the quirky bar, and reminisce on your fabulous Derby adventure.

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.

More travel plans

A Fun-Filled 5 Days in Derby, UK

A trip to Derby, United Kingdom on a limited budget can be equally fun-filled and thrilling. You can start by exploring the city's impressive historical landmarks such as Derby Cathedral, Museum and Art Gallery of Derby, and the Derby Gaol. Make sure to indulge in the local flavors by trying out the famous Derbyshire oatcakes and Bakewell pudding.

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

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.

Derby Delights: A Thrilling 5-Day Family Adventure

Embark on a family-friendly adventure in Derby, United Kingdom, where you'll discover an array of exciting activities for all ages. Explore the enchanting Markeaton Park, an expansive green oasis with playgrounds, lakes, and a miniature railway perfect for children. Don't miss the immersive and educational experience at the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, where you can delve into fascinating exhibits and even encounter ancient dinosaur fossils.

A Day Trip to Derby: History & Adventure

Derby, United Kingdom is a wonderful destination for tourists seeking a mix of urban and rural attractions. Visitors can explore the vibrant city center's historic landmarks, such as the Derby Cathedral and the Pickford's House Museum, before venturing out to the nearby Peak District National Park for outdoor adventures. Whether strolling through picturesque gardens, attending a football game at Pride Park Stadium, or indulging in famous Derbyshire cuisine, there's never a dull moment in this lively town.