Things to do in Derby

Activities, attractions and tours

Derby Cathedral showing night scenes, a city and heritage architecture
Derby which includes a square or plaza
Quad which includes modern architecture and a square or plaza
Derby Museum and Art Gallery featuring art and interior views
Elvaston Castle which includes chateau or palace, heritage architecture and a park

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What to do in Derby

Popular places to visit

Kedleston Hall

Kedleston Hall

You can learn about the history of Derby with a stop at Kedleston Hall. Check out the spas and top-notch restaurants in this quaint area.

Kedleston Hall
Elvaston Castle showing heritage architecture and a castle

Elvaston Castle

Take a leisurely stroll around the grounds of a stately home to admire its formal gardens, enjoy a picnic on the lush lawns and spot varied wildlife.

Elvaston Castle
Derby Cathedral featuring heritage architecture and a city

Derby Cathedral

Famed for the panoramic views from its soaring clock tower, this ancient religious landmark is also home to a series of striking medieval graves.

Derby Cathedral
Melbourne Hall which includes a garden

Melbourne Hall

Tour the well-appointed rooms of the manor house of a 900-year-old estate and go for a stroll around its ornamental garden.

Melbourne Hall
Elvaston Castle which includes a park

Elvaston Castle Country Park

Explore the great outdoors at Elvaston Castle Country Park, a lovely green space in Derby. Check out the spas and lively bars in this quaint area.

Elvaston Castle Country Park
Quad which includes modern architecture and a square or plaza

Quad

Watch Hollywood blockbusters, browse rotating art exhibitions and create your own works of art at workshops inside a contemporary steel-and-glass building.

Quad
Derby Museum and Art Gallery showing art and interior views

Derby Museum and Art Gallery

From the paintings of Joseph Wright to Roman coins and a dedication to Bonnie Prince Charlie, this museum presents a valuable insight into local history.

Derby Museum and Art Gallery
Foremark Reservoir

Foremark Reservoir

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Foremark Reservoir during your travels in Derby. Check out the spas and top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.

Foremark Reservoir

Donington Park Racing Circuit

You can take time to visit Donington Park Racing Circuit during your travels to Derby. Check out the spas and charming coffeehouses in this relaxing area.

Donington Park Racing Circuit

Areas of Derby

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Pride Park

Pride Park is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Pride Park Stadium and Derby Arena while in the area.

Pride Park
Derby featuring heritage architecture, a bridge and night scenes

Derby City Centre

While visiting Derby City Centre, you might make a stop by sights like Derby Theatre and Derby Museum and Art Gallery.

Derby City Centre
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Darley Abbey

While Darley Abbey might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Kedleston Hall and Derbyshire County Cricket Club.

Darley Abbey
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Photo by David Lally (CC BY-SA)

Alvaston

While Alvaston isn't home to many top sights, Elvaston Castle and Derby Arena are some notable places to visit nearby.

Alvaston
Derby featuring heritage architecture, a bridge and night scenes

Cathedral Quarter

If you're spending some time in Cathedral Quarter, Derby Museum and Art Gallery and Derby Computer Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Cathedral Quarter
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St Peters Quarter

While visiting St Peters Quarter, you might make a stop by sights like Derbion and Derbion.

St Peters Quarter
Nottingham showing markets, a river or creek and a city

Nottingham

Photo by Tammi C.

Risley

Photo "Repton" by Sharon Palmer (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Sharon Palmer (CC BY-SA)

Repton

Photo "Thrumpton" by Alan Murray-Rust (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Alan Murray-Rust (CC BY-SA)

Thrumpton

Frequently asked questions

Is Derby worth visiting?
Famous for its bars and pubs and watersports, finding awesome things to do in Derby is simple. Remember to add Derby Theatre to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Derby?
Derby Museum and Art Gallery and Derby Museum of Industry & History are two excellent places to start your adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Derby while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Derby?
The top tourist attraction in Derby is Derby Theatre, so make sure to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Derby?
Three days in Derby is more than enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many guests spend two days on average. Derby Theatre, Derby Museum and Art Gallery and Derby Museum of Industry & History are among the top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots like Nottingham.
Is Derby a walkable city?
With popular neighborhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city center, Derby is a great destination to discover on foot. Have fun wandering between Derby Theatre and Derby Museum and Art Gallery. Then take a stroll around Pride Park, located 2 kilometers from the center, and Darley Abbey, which is about 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Derby with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Derby with kids.

What to do in Derby for adults?
The Beetroot Tree and Donington Grand Prix Collection are just two of the things to do in Derby. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Derby?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Derby is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on hip neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Elvaston Castle is one sight that doesn't have an admission fee.