City Travel Guide to Derby, England, UK

Situated in England’s East Midlands, Derby is a haven for history lovers, museum enthusiasts, and curious wanderers looking to uncover the roots of modern Britain. In the 18th century, it became one of the first places in the world to experience large-scale industrialisation. The waters of the River Derwent were harnessed to power a complex of textile mills, early factories that changed the world.

Later, in the 19^th century, the city played a critical role in the expansion of the British railway network and today it’s still a major hub for rail engineering. But it’s not all about trains and mills – Derby is also home to Rolls-Royce, the global engineering giant which started with cars but now is a major player in aircraft engine development.

Yet Derby is not content to remain in the past. Like many of the UK’s cities, the centre has been affected by residential flight to the suburbs and out-of-town shopping. Fortunately, much of the historic centre survives, and there’s now an impetus to bring people back.

This includes a redevelopment of the old market, a brand new concert venue, Vaillant Live, and a drive to lure independent retailers back to the historic quarter. Even a derelict space in the city centre has been transformed into Electric Daisy – an urban oasis, community hub, party spot, and a haven for nature. Not just a jumping-off point for the Peak District, there’s much to see in this compact city.

Derby Market Hall: A Grand Revival of Heritage and Innovation

The historic Derby Market Hall, a Grade II-listed Victorian gem dating back to 1866, reopens in May 2025, following a meticulous £35.1 million refurbishment. It will host nearly 50 independent traders, offering a curated mix of traditional market stalls, themed vendors, and creative spaces. This will turn the market building into a vibrant hub for independent shopping, dining, and community engagement.

Derby Cathedral

The most arresting feature of Derby Cathedral is, undoubtedly, its tower. At 65m tall, it’s the second highest perpendicular church tower in England, and it dates back to the early 16th century. Built between 1510 and 1532, it predates the rest of the building, which underwent a significant Georgian rebuild in the 18th century.

The cathedral is also a resting place for one of the most powerful and wealthy women of the Elizabethan era. Married four times, Bess of Hardwick rose from modest beginnings to become the Countess of Shrewsbury, amassing wealth and property that rivalled even the queen’s. In her alabaster tomb effigy she’s depicted in a coronet and robes with hands clasped in prayer.

Pickford’s House

Constructed in 1770 by esteemed architect Joseph Pickford, the house originally served as both Pickford’s family residence and a showcase for his architectural prowess. Today, it operates as the Pickford’s House Museum of Georgian Life and Historic Costume, offering visitors an immersive experience into 18th-century domestic life. The museum meticulously recreates period rooms, from opulent drawing rooms to functional kitchens, and a notable highlight is the top-floor exhibition of toy theatres.

Dracula Returns to Derby

The iconic image of Dracula was invented in Derby. On May 15, 1924, the Grand Theatre hosted the premiere of Hamilton Deane’s stage adaptation of Bram Stoker’s “Dracula.” This was the first appearance of the now iconic image of Dracula with a high-collared cape and evening dress, influencing subsequent portrayals on the stage and big screen.

Dracula Exhbition

A new year-long exhibition in Pickford’s House covers 101 years of Dracula in Derby – it includes objects on loan from the Stoker family, The Dracula Society and The Hammer Script Archive. A series of public workshops and event will connect the city with the world’s most famous vampire.

Derby Museum and Art Gallery

Located on The Strand, this museum houses the world’s largest collection of works by Joseph Wright of Derby, an 18th-century artist renowned for his dramatic portrayals of scientific experiments and industrial scenes. Wright’s work captures the intellectual spirit of his time, often showing dramatic scenes lit by candlelight—scientific experiments, industrial marvels, and philosophical discussions frozen in paint.

Museum of Making

Inside the historic Derby Silk Mill, the Museum of Making offers visitors an immersive journey through 300 years of manufacturing history, celebrating Derby’s pivotal role in shaping the modern world. Reopened in May 2021 after a £17 million redevelopment, the first things you see are a Rolls-Royce jet engine and a Toyota chassis suspended high above you in the entrance hall.

The museum’s exhibits are thoughtfully curated to showcase the city’s diverse manufacturing history, from early textile production to modern aerospace achievements. Interactive displays, hands-on workshops, and multimedia presentations engage visitors of all ages. This is a museum for the 21st century.

Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site

At the heart of Derby’s industrial heritage are the Derwent Valley Mills, in the 15 miles from Matlock Bath to Derby. These are a series of 18th and 19th century cotton mills in an industrial landscape of high historical and technological interest. The modern factory owes its origins to the mills at Cromford, where Richard Arkwright’s inventions were first put into industrial-scale production.

An easy walk from the city centre, are Darley Abbey Mills, built between 1782 and 1830, and among the most advanced of their time. Initially powered by water from the River Derwent, the mills later incorporated steam power to enhance production. At their peak, they employed over 500 workers and specialised in producing high-quality thread for sewing, embroidery, and haberdashery.

Winter’s Photographic Studio

Winter’s Photographic Studio, originally established in the late 19th century, is the longest running photographic business in the UK. Victorian Derby residents would don their finest clothes and gather for carefully staged portraits. The building is home to a cherished the collection of glass plate and film negatives from the company’s 150-year history.

Step through the door, and you’re instantly transported into a bygone era. Vintage cameras line the walls, elegant props evoke days past and it has a dual identity as both a working studio and a living museum. Guided tours are available and visitors can try their hand with vintage cameras, learn about traditional darkroom techniques, and even pose for a tintype photograph.

Factfile

GO: Derby is just 90 minutes by train from London.

INFO: Visit Derby has information about the city.

Derby Museums details each individual museum.

Vaillant Live for what’s coming up.

Electric Daisy for the day to day.

Derby Market Hall has updates of the attractions

Winter’s Photographic Studio is open to visitors and customers alike.

STAY: Holiday Inn Derby Riverlights makes a comfortable base in the city centre. CHECK AVAILABILITY

EAT: OMONO has authentic Korean street food.

The Pepperpot Restaurant & Bar is good for fine dining

The Exeter Arms has excellent pub grub and good beer.