Derby: Budget-Friendly Things To Do

Exploring Derby doesn’t have to be expensive. Dive into the city’s wealth of free attractions, from cultural hotspots and scenic parks to historical trails and vibrant markets. Uncover Derby’s charms without breaking the bank.

Derby Museum and Art Gallery: Cultural Gems on Display

Cost: Free

Things to do: Explore Derby’s rich history through the intriguing collections of local artefacts at the Derby Museum and Art Gallery. Uncover fascinating exhibits and see the works of Joseph Wright of Derby and other artists.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are within a short walk, and Derby Railway Station is just a 20-minute walk away, offering seamless connectivity for visitors.

Location/Address: The Strand, Derby, DE1 1BS

Open Days/Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 – 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM), Sunday 12:00 – 16:00 (12 PM – 4 PM)

Derby’s River Derwent: A Scenic Stroll for All Ages

Cost: Free

Things to do: Enjoy a tranquil walk along the River Derwent. It’s a delightful way to experience Derby’s natural beauty, taking in the riverside views and wildlife. Ideal for jogging or a serene evening walk.

Local transportation: Derby’s bus station is a short walk away, offering numerous routes. The nearest train station is Derby with frequent services.

Location/Address: River Derwent, Derby, along the river paths starting near Derby city centre.

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, no restrictions on hours.

Markeaton Park: Embrace the Outdoors in Derby

Cost: Free

Things to do: Explore the charm of Markeaton Park, one of Derby’s most popular leisure destinations. Enjoy the craft village, light railways, and the serene gardens. Perfect for a family outing, jogging, or a tranquil escape.

Local transportation: The closest bus stops include the Kedleston Road stop for buses like the 6A. Derby railway station is just a short bus ride away, linking you with the park easily.

Location/Address: Markeaton Park, Derby, DE22 4AA

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours vary with the seasons.

Visit Derby Cathedral: A Historical Landmark to Explore

Cost: Free

Things to do: Discover the architectural elegance of Derby Cathedral. Climb the tower for panoramic city views, appreciate the intricate stained glass windows, or join a guided tour to unearth its history.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are on Iron Gate and Full Street. Derby’s railway station is also just a short walk away, offering convenient access.

Location/Address: 18-19 Iron Gate, Derby, DE1 3GP

Open Days/Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11:00 – 15:00 (11 AM – 3 PM)

Explore the Derby Arboretum: A Green Oasis

Cost: Free

Things to do: Discover a variety of plants and trees in the serene environment of Derby Arboretum. Relax on benches, enjoy the playground with children, or walk along the winding paths for a peaceful escape.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stations are Rose Hill and Morledge. Multiple bus routes serve these stations, offering convenient access to the arboretum.

Location/Address: Derby Arboretum, Rose Hill, Derby, DE23 8FZ

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, 08:00 – 19:00 (8 AM – 7 PM) with seasonal variations.

Derby Heritage Trail: Explore the Historical Heart

Cost: Free

Things to do: Embark on the Derby Heritage Trail to discover the city’s rich history. Visit key landmarks including Derby Cathedral and the Silk Mill, and immerse yourself in captivating stories of the past.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are located on Corporation Street. Several local buses serve the area, offering convenient access to the trail’s starting point.

Location/Address: Derby Heritage Trail, starts at Derby Market Place, DE1 3AH

Open Days/Hours: Accessible 24/7, ideal for a self-guided tour at any time.

Derby’s Piccadilly Market: Delight in Local Treasures

Cost: Free entry

Things to do: Discover the charm of Piccadilly Market in Derby. Explore the variety of stalls offering handcrafted items, vintage finds, and local specialties. Immerse yourself in the community vibes as you shop for unique trinkets and sample homegrown treats.

Local transportation: Derby’s Piccadilly Market is easily accessible from the Derby railway station. Buses running through the city center also provide convenient stops near the market area.

Location/Address: Piccadilly, Derby, DE1 2DB

Open Days/Hours: Typically open on weekends, 09:00 – 17:00 (9 AM – 5 PM)

Derby Silk Mill Park: Discover History and Leisure in One Place

Cost: Free entry

Things to do: Enjoy a peaceful walk in Silk Mill Park, explore the historic mills and become part of Derby’s rich industrial heritage. Ideal for relaxation and educational trips alike.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are around Full Street and Morledge, making the park easily accessible. A variety of local bus services run frequently and provide good connectivity.

Location/Address: Silk Mill Park, Silk Mill Lane, Derby, DE1 3AF

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours (approximately 07:00 – 18:00 or 7 AM – 6 PM)

Derby Market Place: Revel in Local Festivities

Cost: Many festivals are free or budget-friendly.

Things to do: Join in the vibrant array of festivals at Derby Market Place. Enjoy live music, sample local eats, and immerse yourself in cultural displays right in the heart of Derby.

Local transportation: The local bus station is near, and many bus routes serve the area. Taxis and bike-sharing schemes are also available for convenience.

Location/Address: Derby Market Place, Derby, DE1 3AH

Open Days/Hours: Festival dates and times vary; check local listings for current information.

Darley Park: Discover Nature’s Charm in Derby

Cost: Free

Things to do: Encounter Derby’s wildlife at Darley Park. Enjoy birdwatching, explore vibrant flower gardens, and unwind by the River Derwent. Perfect for jogging or a tranquil family day out.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are on Duffield Road. Derby Railway Station is about 20 minutes’ walk (1.6 kilometers/1 mile) away, offering broader connections.

Location/Address: Darley Park, Darley Abbey, Derby, DE22 1EN

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours

Derby’s Pickford’s House: A Delight for Aspiring Photographers

Cost: Free admission

Things to do: Capture the essence of Georgian architecture and design at Pickford’s House. Explore the period rooms, immerse yourself in the tranquil garden, and snap picturesque shots for your collection.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are on Friar Gate. Derby railway station is about a 20-minute walk (1 mile or 1.6 kilometers) away, linking with local and national routes.

Location/Address: 41 Friar Gate, Derby, DE1 1DA

Open Days/Hours: Usually open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 to 17:00 (10 AM to 5 PM)

Derby: Pedal Along the National Cycle Network

Cost: Free

Things to do: Experience Derby’s scenic routes by cycling along the National Cycle Network. Discover quiet lanes, traffic-free paths, and sweeping landscapes perfect for both novice and experienced cyclists.

Local transportation: The Derby railway station is the main hub, with bus services connecting to various parts of the city, making access to cycling routes convenient.

Location/Address: National Cycle Network, Derby

Open Days/Hours: Accessible 24 hours daily, all year round.

Derby’s Allestree Park: A Tranquil Escape for Leisure and Reflection

Cost: Free.

Things to do: Embrace the calm of Allestree Park. Meander through its vast woodland, admire the lake’s serenity, and discover various wildlife. Ideal for jogging, dog walking, or a quiet afternoon.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are at Park Farm Centre, with routes such as 9, 10, and 113 serving the area. These provide easy access to the park.

Location/Address: Allestree Park, Derby, DE22 2EU

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, dawn till dusk (approximately 06:00 – 18:00 or 6 AM – 6 PM).

Derby: Discover the Charm of the Derby Ram Trail

Cost: Free

Things to do: Embark on a unique art trail to find the wonderfully painted Ram sculptures scattered through Derby. It’s a fun way to explore the city’s heritage and creativity.

Local transportation: The Derby bus station is within walking distance, offering numerous routes. Closest rail link is at Derby Midland Station, with great connectivity.

Location/Address: Various locations throughout Derby city center

Open Days/Hours: The sculptures are accessible 24 hours, though best seen in daylight hours for safety and visibility.

Derby: Discover Artisan Talent at Banks Mill Studios

Cost: Many exhibitions and events are free

Things to do: Explore the creative hub of Banks Mill Studios, where you can view local contemporary art, chat with the artists, and maybe catch a workshop or two. It’s a burst of inspiration for art lovers.

Local transportation: The nearest station is Derby railway station, a short walk away. Buses like numbers 6A, 73, and the P1 stop nearby, providing easy access to the Studios.

Location/Address: 71 Bridge Street, Derby, DE1 3LB

Open Days/Hours: Varies for different events; check ahead (typical gallery hours are 10:00 – 15:00 or 10 AM – 3 PM)

Disc Golf at Darley Park: An Affordable Adventure in Derby

Cost: Free to play, equipment rental may be available for a small fee

Things to do: Challenge yourself with 9 baskets of disc golf spread throughout Darley Park. Enjoy the fresh air as you aim to complete the course with the fewest throws.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are within a short walk, providing convenient access from Derby city center through routes such as the 22 and the 24.

Location/Address: Darley Park, Derby, DE22 1EN

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year during daylight hours

Derby: Educational Visit to The Department of Making + Doing

Cost: Varies; some workshops are free, others are low-cost.

Things to do: Explore creativity and technology at The Department of Making + Doing. Attend hands-on workshops, learn about digital fabrication, or dive into crafting and electronics for an enlightening experience.

Local transportation: The nearest train station is Derby Station, a short bus ride away. Buses like the 5, 5A, and 6 frequently run to nearby stops.

Location/Address: The Department of Making + Doing, 1 Innovation Street, Derby, DE1 2AB

Open Days/Hours: Varies; check the official website for current schedule.

Derby: Discover Nature at Pride Park Nature Reserve

Cost: Free

Things to do: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Pride Park Nature Reserve. Observe local wildlife, take scenic photographs, or simply enjoy a tranquil afternoon in the presence of nature.

Local transportation: The nearest railway station is Derby, which has good connections to local buses. Routes like the 4A, 73, and the Skylink make it accessible.

Location/Address: Pride Park Nature Reserve, Derby, UK

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours recommended for visits.

Experience Alvaston Park in Derby: A Haven of Natural Beauty

Cost: Entry to Alvaston Park is absolutely free, offering a budget-friendly day out.

Things to do: Alvaston Park provides an oasis with its vast lake, perfect for model boating and bird watching. Enjoy the play area, or savor the tranquility of the walking paths.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are available on London Road, offering convenient routes to the park. Derby’s train station is a short bus ride away.

Location/Address: Alvaston Park, London Road, Derby, DE24 8QQ

Open Days/Hours: The park is accessible every day, dawn till dusk (sunrise until sunset).

Derby: Dive into Vibrant Workshops and Events

Cost: Many events are free or low-priced

Things to do: Partake in community workshops at Derby’s cultural centers. Experience art, music, and history events, often without a price tag or for a modest fee.

Local transportation: The Derby bus station is your hub for local travel. Numerous bus routes serve the area, ensuring easy access to events.

Location/Address: Various venues across Derby, including cultural centers and public libraries.

Open Days/Hours: Event-dependent, typically during weekends and evenings. Check local listings.

Conclusion

For an affordable cultural experience, Derby Museum and Art Gallery offers a fascinating dive into the local heritage for free. Whether you’re arriving in Derby by bus or train, it’s a convenient stop. If you prefer the outdoors, a walk along the scenic River Derwent won’t cost a dime and promises a peaceful escape in close proximity to Derby’s bus and train stations.

Pro Tip: To delve deeper into Derby’s rich history, take the self-guided Derby Heritage Trail. It’s ideal for all visitors, connecting you with notable sites right from the city center and perfect for those on the move, whether you’re exploring London by bus or winding down London by train.