Are you currently planning a trip to Derby, England? Yes? You’re definitely in for a real treat, whether it’s your romantic gateway with your partner, visiting with family, on a solo trip, or simply in town for business, there are many things to do in Derby city. You’ve probably heard about how Derby is the home to the UK’s first factory, the Silk Mill but now the Museum of Making. What if we told you that there’s more to Derby? Whether the cultural landmarks, beautiful parks, or vibrant theaters, you’ll find something that suits your taste. The best part is that in addition to the things to do in Derby, we’ll also give you insider tips to make sure your visit is as memorable as ever. Now, let’s dive in!
10 Best Things To Do In Derby with Kids, Family and Friends
1. Visit Markeaton Park
Don’t miss Markeaton Park if you’re looking for top things to do in Derby City as a family. It’s quite a popular place and the most visited given that it carries a lot of history. Going to the park will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time exploring paths lined with trees that have been standing for centuries and even seeing remnants of the old World War II army camp. You’ll surely unravel a lot of stories and even pass them down to your kids. Alternatively, your kids can get busy at the park’s huge playground, and swings. They have a lot of space to run around and enjoy themselves. Packing a picnic is not a bad idea or just finding a sunny spot on the grass and just enjoying the outdoors together.
Location: Markeaton Ln, Derby DE22 4AA, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm: Sunday and bank holidays from 10 am to 4 pm.
2. Bluebell Dairy Farm
Bluebell Dairy Farm should also be one of your top choices for things to do with kids in Derby. The reason is simple – it has everything needed to ensure that everyone has fun. Your kids will definitely have a swell time meeting the animals on the farm like cows and goats. You can also allow them to burn off some energy at the bouncy pillow and play areas and when it’s time to take a break, you can relax with some of the best homemade ice cream, made right on the farm from their cows’ milk. On the other hand, if you’re hungry after exploring all day, their cafe offers delicious homemade food and cakes to refill your strength. Overall, the Bluebell Dairy Farm is the kind of place where you’ll make memories with your family.
Location: Locko Rd, Derby DE21 7AR, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Monday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 10 am–4 pm; Tuesday- Thursday, closed
3. Jumpin Inflatable Theme Park
Jumping Inflatable Theme Park is one of the stuff to do in Derby with your family, especially if you want a have a high-energy, fun-filled day with your kids. The size of this playground is about 16,000 sqft and contains wall-to-wall bouncing, giant slides, airdrops, and many more. Even as a grown-up, you can join the fun too, whether it’s bouncing, sliding, or jumping to your heart’s content. It’s an opportunity to let loose and enjoy a day of laughter, adventure, and excitement.
Location: 8 Siddals Rd, Derby DE1 2PY, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mon & Tue: Closed | Wed: 12 PM–6 PM | Thu: 10 AM–6 PM | Fri: 10 AM–8 PM | Sat: 9 AM–8 PM | Sun: 10 AM–5 PM.
4. Derby Museum and Art Gallery
Derby Museum and Art Gallery is the perfect spot for families looking to get inspired by learning about their history and having fun while seeing what’s on Derby. Your kids will love exploring cool exhibits on everything from dinosaurs and geology to fascinating military history. One of the reasons why this is one of the places of interest in Derby is because they’ve got plenty of activities for all ages. There’s also an incredible artwork by Derby’s Joseph Writer. If you’re an art lover, you’ll admire his paintings, like Philosopher Lecturing on the Orrery and The Alchemist Discovering Phosphorus, which capture the excitement of the Industrial Revolution in England. For your little ones, you can sign them up for the “Tota Make & Do” sessions, whether they can touch and play with artifacts.
Location: The Strand, Derby DE1 1BS, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Opening Hours: Mon: Closed | Tue–Sat: 10 AM–5 PM | Sun: 12 PM–4 PM.
5. Moorways Sports Village and Water Park
Another Derby activity you can do with your family is to visit the Moorways Sports Village and Water Park. The park was opened in 2022 and has been an entertainment and fun hib for lots of people in the city. First, it has two thrilling 100m flumes, a beach-style pool complete with waves from the Wow Ball, and a multi-slide where you all can race with each other. For kids, they can enjoy the water playground with mini-slides. You can allow your kids to play with the water while you relax at the cafe and keep an eye on them. The best part is that there’s a sauna and steam for a bit of relaxation for you and your partner.
Location: Moor Ln, Allenton, Derby DE24 9HY, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mon–Fri: 6 AM–10 PM | Sat & Sun: 7 AM–6:30 PM.
6. Derby Riverboat Trips
Perhaps you’re searching for a peaceful and romantic way to explore the city with your lover, the riverboat trip is a great choice for things to do in Derby for adults. This trip takes you on a 45-minute mill-to-mill cruise where you explore the beautiful River Derwent, and pass through Darley Park, the historic Chester Green, and the lovely area of Darley Abbey, all the while enjoying the quiet and natural surroundings. One of the reasons why this is one of the best things to do in Derby City for couples is because of its serenity. You can sit on the outdoor deck for fresh air and great views or simply relax inside the cabin. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for aquatic wildlife like kingfishers. Another interesting thing you should note is that the boat is called “Outram” and it runs on solar power. During the cruise, you can listen to the fun and interesting story about Derby narrated by Sir David Suchet.
Location: Opposite Silk Mill, Derby, DE1 2EB.
Ticket Prize: Adults £8, Under 16s £6, Family ticket – £22, Under 3 Free but still require a ticket
7. Old Derby Gaol
Looking for what to see in Derby with friends? Why not visit the old Derby Gaol? You’ll have a thrilling yet chilling adventure especially if you and your friends enjoy mystery. The Derby Gaol, located at Friar Gate is one of the most haunted spots in the UK and the first jail in Derby between 1756 and 1828. During that period, many jailers were executed. Some even took their lives rather than face being hanged in public. So, imagine, stepping into this jail and learning about its dark history. If you even want an extra thrill, you can consider the lock-in Friday or Saturday nights where you spend the night in this haunted jail just like the prisoners did centuries ago.
Location: 50-51 Friar Gate, Derby DE1 1DF, United Kingdom.
Opening Hours: Only on Saturdays – 10 am to 3 pm
8. Pickford’s House
If you’re on a solo visit or exploring events in Derby with friends and family, visiting Pickford’s House is great for Derby days out. You’ll love it if you enjoy history and getting lost in beautiful architecture. This museum came about after Enlightenment architect, Joseph Pickford designed the Georgian house capturing the people’s lives and costumes. Bear in mind that the structure was built in 1770 and was eventually opened as a museum in 1988. Visiting this place will give you a glimpse into the domestic lives of people who lived there over 250 years ago, from the grand lifestyles of the wealthy to the daily routines of their servants. It’s surely a place to visit and strike up interesting conversations about history and design.
Location: 41 Friar Gate, Derby, DE1 1DA
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 10 AM–5 PM, closed Sunday and Monday
9. Alvaston Park
Visiting Alvaston Park is one of the best things to do in Derby England, especially if you want to escape from the city and be in a place where you can connect with nature. This beautiful riverside park covers 85 acres and features a serene lake perfect for model boating, a BMX track for thrill-seekers, and even football pitches. So, if you’re visiting with your kids, they can enjoy the playground. There’s also a cafe that offers refreshments. The best part is that the park has picturesque waking paths lined by stunning trees. Walking this path and listening to the sound of nature can calm your nervous system.
Location: Meadow Ln, Alvaston, Derby DE24 8QQ, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mon–Fri: 10 AM–3 PM | Sat & Sun: 9 AM–4 PM.
10. East Midlands Aeropark
You can’t miss this destination especially if you’re an aviation enthusiast. In the East Midlands Aeropark, you’ll meet lots of fascinating collections of restored planes from both the past and present. Aside from that, you’re free to go around the indoor and outdoor exhibits that show about 30 aircraft including the popular Armstrong Whitworth AW.660 Argosy. As one of the most interesting places to visit in Derby, East Midlands Aeropark has a viewing mound, just about 170 meters from the main runway where you can watch modern airliners take off and land. So, it’s quite an interactive experience when you visit.
Location: Hill Top, Castle Donington, Derby DE74 2PR, UK
Opening Hours: Thurs, Sat & Sun: 11 AM–5 PM | Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri: Closed.
Featured Places to Live for Derby Days Out
While exploring places to visit in Derby, another important thing is to find affordable apartments in Derby UK. Go for uhomes.com, we will help you with the whole process of booking a perfect accommodation in Derby, saving you a lot of energy and time. So, waste no time and browse the premium properties we collected for you. Whether you are planning for a moving, journey, or study trip, you can pick out a comfortable living place at the most reasonable prices!
Iron Gate Studios, Derby
Iron Gate Studios, Derby is situated in Derby’s heart area, a 10-minute from well-known supermarket chains. For students who want alone, this cozy student housing in Derby solely offers studio-style accommodations. Students can live in a safe and secure environment at Iron Gate Studios in Derby thanks to its CCTV and access control systems.
Northgate House, Derby
Northgate House, Derby is close to the city centre, with numerous British supermarket chains within walking distance. There are 166 rooms at Northgate House Derby, including three studio and five En-suite accommodation types. Every room has a range of furnishings and conveniences, as well as private bathrooms and bedrooms. Renters can live in a safe and secure atmosphere at Northgate House because to its CCTV system and access control.
Roman House, Derby
Roman House, Derby is nestled amongst various convenient, vibrant amenities that enrich students’ lives outside the classroom. The En-suite room type from Roman House is a well-liked option for striking a balance between socializing and privacy. The bedrooms in this kind of room have private bathrooms to guarantee students’ personal cleanliness. Roman House is outfitted with a video surveillance system and an electronic access control system that operates around-the-clock to guarantee students’ safety.
What’s on Derby Conclusion
What to do in Derby, UK? From our review above, you can see that there are a lot of things to do in Derby – one that will leave you thrilled. As a family, you can enjoy places like bluebell Diary Farm and Jumpin Inflatable Theme Park where your kids can play and have a great time. On the other hand, if you want to just have a relaxed walk and enjoy nature, Alvaston Park is the perfect spot. Old Derby Gaol and Pickford’s House are part of the Derby attractions, especially for those curious about history. Feel free to pick any of the places reviewed above, and pay a visit. There has never been a better time to take your adventures seriously!
FAQ on Things To Do in Derby
Visit Derby offers a wide selection of things to see and do. Embark on a remarkable journey through Derby’s vibrant tapestry of bookable experiences, captivating attractions, thrilling activities, mesmerising entertainment, enriching arts and culture, and irresistible shopping delights. Unleash your wanderlust and immerse yourself in a city brimming with endless opportunities. City museum and art gallery are good and free. Superb collection of Joseph Wright paintings and prehistoric artefacts from tthe region. All the big high street brands are in the Intu shopping centre, with independent shops mostly along Sadler Gate. There are very many good pubs in Derby of the sort you like.
Derby has many fun things to do for couples to do, like relaxing riverboat trips. You can also take walks in Alvaston Park or explore Pickford’s House and Derby Museum and Art Gallery.
This weekend in Derby, there are lots of activities like the Derby Cathedral’s Gift and Craft Fair which features handmade crafts and local produce happens on Saturday. There’s also the National Forest Adventure Farm where kids get to explore corn mazes and interact with animals. Additionally, there are lots of exhibitions at the Derby Museum and Art Gallery.
Some of the free places you can go in Derby for free include the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, Derby Cathedral, Derby Arboretum, and Pickford’s House Museum.
For a fun night out in Derby, you can visit The Bodega which is a lively bar and music venue that hosts live performances. There’s also Dada, a stylish cocktail where you can get lots of creative drinks. The Spot is also perfect if you want to go on a late-night dancing with your partner.
Fun things to do in Derby include visiting the Markeaton Park, Bluebell Dairy Farm, Jumpin Inflatable Theme Park, Derby Museum and Art Gallery, Old Derby Gaol, and Pickford’s house. You can also consider taking a Derby Riverboat trip.
