Derby is a charming city located in the East Midlands region of England. With a rich history dating back to the Roman times, there is plenty to explore and discover in this city. Here are the top 8 things to do in Derby.
Derby Cathedral
What is it? Derby Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of All Saints, is a beautiful medieval cathedral located in the heart of Derby, England. The cathedral has a rich history dating back to the 10th century, with the current building being constructed in the 14th and 15th centuries.
The cathedral features stunning Gothic architecture, including intricate stonework, beautiful stained glass windows, and a magnificent bell tower. Visitors can explore the cathedral's nave, chancel, and transepts, as well as the chapels and the Lady Chapel. There is also a cathedral shop, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and gifts.
Why should you go? Visiting Derby Cathedral is a must for anyone interested in history, architecture, or religion. The cathedral is an excellent example of Gothic architecture and features many beautiful details that are sure to impress visitors.
The cathedral is also a place of worship and offers regular services for those interested in attending. Visitors can attend services or participate in the many events and activities that take place at the cathedral throughout the year.
The cathedral is open to visitors every day, and admission is free. Visitors can take guided tours of the cathedral or explore on their own. The cathedral also offers educational programs for schools and groups, making it an excellent destination for students of all ages.
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
What is it? The Derby Museum and Art Gallery is a museum located in the city centre of Derby, England. It was established in 1836 and holds a wide variety of collections including archaeology, local history, fine art, decorative art, and natural history. The museum is housed in a beautiful Georgian building that was originally built as the city's public library.
Why should you go? The Derby Museum and Art Gallery is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history, art and culture of Derby and the surrounding area. The museum's collection includes a fascinating range of exhibits, from prehistoric artefacts to contemporary art, all of which offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.
One of the museum's most popular exhibits is the world-renowned collection of Joseph Wright paintings. Wright, who was born in Derby in 1734, is one of Britain's greatest artists and is best known for his paintings of scientific experiments and dramatic scenes lit by candlelight. The museum also has a great collection of porcelain, including the renowned Derby porcelain, which was produced in the city from the mid-18th century.
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Kedleston Hall
What is it? Kedleston Hall is an 18th-century country house located in the Kedleston area of Derby, England. The house was designed by the architect Robert Adam and is considered one of the finest examples of Palladian architecture in the country. The house was built between 1759 and 1765 for Nathaniel Curzon, the first Baron Scarsdale.
Why should you go? Kedleston Hall is a must-visit destination for architecture and history lovers. The house is renowned for its stunning architecture and interiors, which are decorated with intricate plasterwork, gilded ceilings, and ornate furnishings. The house has also been used as a location for several film and television productions, including "The Duchess" and "The Crown".
Visitors can explore the house's many rooms, including the Drawing Room, the Marble Hall, and the State Dining Room. The house also features an extensive art collection, with works by artists such as Rembrandt, Stubbs, and Reynolds.
Outside, the house is surrounded by beautiful parkland and gardens, which were designed by the famous landscape architect Lancelot "Capability" Brown. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the gardens, which include a lake, a bridge, and several follies.
Pickford's House Museum
What is it? Pickford's House Museum is a Georgian townhouse located in Derby, England, that has been converted into a museum. It was originally built in 1770 by architect Joseph Pickford as his family home, and it has been restored and furnished to reflect life in the Georgian period.
Why should you go? Visitors to Pickford's House Museum can step back in time and experience what life was like in 18th-century England. The museum has a collection of period furniture, paintings, and decorative arts, including ceramics, glass, and silver. The exhibits are arranged to show how the house would have been used by the Pickford family and their servants, with rooms dedicated to cooking, dining, and entertaining.
In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, talks, and workshops throughout the year. Visitors can learn about topics such as Georgian fashion, art, and architecture, or participate in hands-on activities like costume making or historical cooking.
The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs for schools and groups, making it a great destination for families, students, and history enthusiasts.
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Derby Silk Mill
What is it? The Derby Silk Mill is a museum of industry and history located in the city of Derby, England. It is housed in a historic silk mill that dates back to the early 18th century and is considered to be the world's first modern factory. The mill was originally used for silk production, but later became a cotton spinning mill and then a museum.
The museum features exhibits on the history of the silk industry in Derby, as well as the development of the factory system and the role that Derby played in the Industrial Revolution. There are also displays on local industries such as engineering, pottery, and brewing.
Why should you go? The Derby Silk Mill is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of industry and manufacturing. The museum offers a fascinating look at the development of the factory system and the role that Derby played in the Industrial Revolution.
In addition to its exhibits, the museum also offers a variety of workshops, talks, and events throughout the year. These include demonstrations of traditional textile techniques, hands-on workshops, and talks on various aspects of local history and industry.
The museum is also located in a scenic part of Derby, near the River Derwent and the historic Cathedral Quarter. Visitors can take a stroll along the river or explore the nearby shops and restaurants before or after their visit to the museum.
Royal Crown Derby Museum
What is it? The Royal Crown Derby Museum and Factory is a historic porcelain manufacturer and museum located in Derby, England. The factory has been in operation since 1750 and is known for producing some of the finest English bone china.
Why should you go? Visiting the Royal Crown Derby Museum and Factory provides a fascinating insight into the history of fine bone china production. The museum includes displays of some of the factory's most famous patterns, such as the famous Imari design. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the factory floor to see how the porcelain is made and decorated by hand.
In addition to the museum and factory tours, the Royal Crown Derby shop offers visitors the chance to purchase the factory's wares, including limited edition pieces and items made exclusively for the shop. There is also a cafe on site, serving up delicious food and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.
Whether you're a collector of fine china or simply interested in the history of British craftsmanship, a visit to the Royal Crown Derby Museum and Factory is well worth your time. It's a unique opportunity to see master artisans at work and learn about the rich history of this iconic brand.
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Alvaston Park
What is it? Alvaston Park is a large park located in the Alvaston area of Derby, England. The park is over 85 acres and offers a variety of facilities for visitors to enjoy.
Why should you go? There are many reasons to visit Alvaston Park. For one, the park offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are large open fields where visitors can play sports or have a picnic. The park also features a large lake where visitors can fish, sail model boats, or simply enjoy the scenery. In addition to the outdoor activities, Alvaston Park also has a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. There is a large children's playground, a skate park, and a BMX track. There is also a cafe on-site that serves a variety of refreshments.
For those interested in history, the park is home to the historic Alvaston Hall. This grade II listed building dates back to the 18th century and is now used as a community center.
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Markeaton Park
What is it? Markeaton Park is a public park located in Derby, England. It covers over 200 acres and has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. The park features a variety of attractions, including a children's play area, boating lake, formal gardens, sports facilities, and a cafe.
Why should you go? Markeaton Park is a wonderful destination for a day out with family or friends. With its expansive green spaces and range of activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Children will love the play area, which includes a splash pad and a range of climbing frames and swings. The boating lake is also a popular attraction, offering pedal boats and rowing boats for hire during the summer months.
For those looking to relax, the park's formal gardens provide a tranquil escape. Here, visitors can enjoy beautiful flower beds, manicured lawns, and peaceful walking paths. The park also has a cafe where visitors can enjoy a meal or snack while taking in the scenery.
Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the park's many facilities, including football pitches, cricket grounds, and a disc golf course. The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including outdoor theatre performances, music festivals, and fireworks displays.