Things to do in Derby

With several world-class stadiums, the first purpose-built public park in the country and a host of abbeys, cathedrals and castles, there’s so much to see and do in Derby.

There’s plenty to entertain the thrill seeker in Derby – from Alton Towers to plunging cave networks to swinging through the trees to indoor crazy golf arenas, Derby is an action-packed city.

A buzzing city alive with music, theatre, sport, comedy and film, make sure trips to QUAD, Pride Park and one of its many excellent theatres are on your to-do list. Beyond that, the city has a lively music and comedy scene well worth checking out.

Spread over a million square feet, Derby Shopping Centre is a sprawling retail heaven boasting over 200 stores, as well dozens of bars, restaurants, coffee shops and a 12-screen cinema and indoor golf arena.

Discover how much lift a WWI bomber needs for takeoff, take a tour around some of the fastest cars in the world or discover Derby’s rich industrial heritage at the city’s impressive array of museums.

Having given the world several noted actors including rising Hollywood star Jack O’Connell, Derby has an impressive reputation to uphold which the Derby Theatre and Derby Live do admirably, putting on a host of shows and events through the year.

From riverside terraces to a divine burger shack and from Himalayan spices to British twists on global classics, eating out in Derby is a real treat. We’ve rounded up our favourite cafés, bistros and restaurants in Derby for you to check out.

A city blessed with centuries-old pubs – some of which are reputedly haunted – offering cask ales from around the world, Derby is also home to a booming bar scene, with several new cocktail bars and concepts well worth checking out.

Just 30 minutes’ drive from the city centre, East Midlands Airport provides excellent domestic and international connections, while the nearby M1, coupled with strong rail links, means Derby is a well-connected city.