48 hours in Derby: A celebration of creativity and making

Brimming with industrial history, diverse creativity and a blossoming culinary scene, Derby is one of Britain’s true hidden gems that offers a memorable weekend getaway, whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, craft beer connoisseur or refined foodie.

Just two hours by train from Piccadilly or around two hours and twenty minutes from the city centre by car, the East Midlands jewel combines world-class museums and UNESCO heritage sites with a wide range of local artisans, independent shopping spots and an endless array of excellent restaurants.

Here’s how to make the most of a long weekend in the vibrant, welcoming city.

Enlighten yourself with Derby Museums

Start with a journey through Derby’s history, which begins at the Museum of Making – housed in Derby Silk Mill, widely recognised as the world’s first modern factory and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Uncover the fascinating stories and foundational ideas that built the city of today, with highlights including the Assemblage, an open museum store showcasing the collections of making according to their materials. Be sure to stop by the River Kitchen for a homemade lunch and grab a locally sourced gift in the shop before you move on.

A short stroll away, the Museum and Art Gallery displays the works of Joseph Wright, Derby native and internationally renowned master of light and shadow. This enormous collection of paintings and sketches includes his mesmerising opus, The Orrery. You can find out about their regular exhibitions and events ahead of your trip HERE.

For a slice of Georgian opulence, step into the former home of Enlightenment architect Joseph Pickford. Preserved to show how his family would have lived with period room settings and original objects, Pickford’s House celebrates the timeless beauty of Georgian Architecture with a charming French parterre garden to match.

Make it Derby

Once you’ve had your fill of captivating local history, dive into Derby’s creative scene at Banks Mill Studios, a thriving hub for over thirty artists and makers located in a refurbished landmark building. On the first Saturday of each month, the Makers Market offers the chance to buy original hand-made pieces directly from the creators.

Inside the same building, you’ll discover Green Door, Derbyshire’s only open access print studio dedicated to pioneering and sustainable printmaking, where you can get hands-on with regular taster sessions and revel in all-embracing fine art with the International Print Exchange this October.

Out in the idyllic Derbyshire countryside, Denby Pottery Village invites you to get behind the potter’s wheel and create your own hand-thrown pot using locally sourced clay in a relaxed yet fabulously entertaining workshop with the studio potter. Over by Matlock, the storied John Smedley mill brings the story of the legendary luxury knitwear company to life with guided tours and piles of high-end bargains at the outlet store.

Round off your whistlestop tour of Derby’s creative marvels with a visit to White Peak Distillery, home of various award-winning whiskeys, gins and rums, each imbued with Derbyshire pride. Experience the unique atmosphere of a working distillery and sample some of the region’s finest tipples with a tasting or two.

From bookshops to boat tours: immerse yourself in the local attractions

Back in the heart of town, Derby Cathedral stands out amongst the skyline with its breathtaking facade and absorbing history, with Tudor architecture and elements dating back to the 10th century.

As you meander through the Cathedral Quarter, you’ll stumble upon the trendy, thrumming Sadler Gate, where you can peruse an assortment of independent boutiques, bars and bistros and settle in for a long lunch or a quick pit-stop before exploring further. One standout hotspot is BEAR, a serene brunch and cocktail joint serving familiar favourites, fresh flavours, small plates and speciality coffee throughout the day.

For those looking to learn more about Derbyshire’s industrial roots, take a tour of Cromford Mills and discover how the Derwent Valley changed the world and became a cornerstone of the Industrial Revolution with Sir Richard Arkwright’s trailblazing 18th century factory at its centre.

Across from Cromford Mills, Scarthin Books is guaranteed to delight literature lovers with over 100,000 new, used and antiquarian books on sale across twelve rooms and three sprawling floors of a converted house in the scenic village of Cromford, complete with a vegetarian cafe.

Make it a staycation to remember with elegant hotels, retail therapy and global craft beer

After a long day of discovery and wonder, treat yourself to some well-earned retail therapy at Derby Market Hall, the city’s flagship dining, shopping and events destination where you can find a dazzling selection of street food, cafes and permanent and pop-up stalls selling everything from vintage wares to fresh produce, alongside another on-site distillery.

Pop into Suds and Soda, Friar Gate’s specialist craft beer bar and bottle shop selling a rotating range of new, irresistible lagers, IPAs and stouts from around the world.

After a whirlwind weekend around the city and beyond, you can finish an unforgettable trip with a jaunt down the River Derwent in the electric riverboat, Outram, named after the hometown icon who build many of Britain’s canals and railways. Revel in well-kept nature while cruising up to the delightful Darley Abbey on one of the most bio-diverse waterways in the country.

When you’re finally ready to turn in, there’s a choice of sophisticated hotels and apartments to ensure a perfect night’s sleep in the heart of the city. Book a spacious and chic serviced apartment in a stunning grade II-listed Georgian Building with The Stay Company, or shack up in the Cathedral Quarter at the sleek yet homely Leonardo Hotel.

Find out more and plan your Derby getaway HERE.