Holiday homes & rentals in Derby

Derby is getting increasingly popular with weekend breakers, and for a reason – the city features some of the best-preserved artefacts of the industrial revolution; the first established public park in the UK, the Arboretum; and great shopping malls. Children will love the range of indoor and outdoor experiences at the city’s parks and museums, while foodies can look forward to discovering peculiar Derby dishes such as pyclets. If you love historical buildings, rent a Georgian holiday cottage in the centre, and if you're seeking proximity to nature, opt for one of the many log cabins in the countryside surrounding the city.

A Hidden Gem among British Food Capitals

Foodies will be enthralled by Derby's rich culinary history and amazing restaurant scene. Look for pyclets, Derby’s gastronomic pride. These flat cakes, invented in 1864, are sold in a few bakeries around the city and come with sweet or savoury toppings. Derbyshire pudding, a pastry tart filled with jam and lemon curd, is another must try.

For eating out, head to Friar Gate, where you’ll find big chains and independent cafés serving gourmet British food. The city is also famous for having some of the best curry houses in England. The last weekend of the month gives you the chance to try the best street food in town at the Bustler Market.

If you fancy a home-cooked meal, shop for ingredients at one of Derby’s farmers markets and cook your own meal at your holiday home. Don't forget to pick up some special Sage Derby cheese.

Derby ales are highly regarded for their traditional ingredients and preparation. To try some of the famous brew, stop in at one of the pubs on Friar Gate or Sadler Gate.

Discover the History of Derby, the Cradle of the Industrial Revolution

Derby can be explored on foot. Start your sightseeing in the Cathedral Quarter and climb the Derby Cathedral's 16th-century tower for spectacular views of the city before checking out Derby’s Silk Mill. Founded in 1717, this factory-turned-museum is considered one of the precursors of the industrial revolution.

Next, visit Pickford’s House, a 1770 Georgian home named after its architect. What makes the house special is its interiors and original vintage furniture. Tour the house and learn how Derbians lived in Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian times and the 1930s.

You could also stop in at the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, a free museum showcasing local art and historic artefacts, ancient porcelain, and works by Derby’s most famous painter, Joseph Wright, who created works related to the industrial revolution and the age of enlightment.

Children's Activities at Derby's Museums and Theme Parks

While staying at Derby's family-friendly holiday cottages, children can have fun indoors or outdoors – the options are endless. Take them to Derby Museum and Art Gallery, which offers interactive exhibitions and creative activities for the whole family, particularly during school holidays. There's also the Arboretum, the first public park to be established in the UK. It's a pleasant place for a walk on a sunny day. Train lovers will enjoy visiting the Famous Trains Model Railway in Markeaton Park. Detailed explanations of how the model railway works are provided.

For some serious fun, take your little ones to Alton Towers Resort, a theme park with over 50 attractions 25 miles from Derby. And under 20 miles south of the city, you’ll find one of the best adventure playgrounds in the country, Conkers. The park, set in the middle of the National Forest, offers nature adventures both indoors and outdoors, including aerial experiences.

Fairytale Castles in the Derby Area

The outskirts of Derby will take you back in time. Only 5 miles outside the city centre, Kedleston Hall is a Neoclassical mansion that served as the setting of the movie The Duchess. Gape at its pompous exterior and ornate paintings and sculptures inside.

Nearby Elvaston Castle is famous for its gothic revival architecture, historical gardens, and massive park. There's also Bolsover Castle, an early 17th-century jewel 30 miles north of Derby. Explore its splendid interior and gardens before taking in the amazing views of the surrounding countryside.

If you love Derby’s countryside, consider staying at one of the lovely holiday lodges for rent outside the city. For a dose of big-city life, you can always drive 15 miles to reach Nottingham, famous for its hilltop Nottingham Castle Museum and Art Gallery.

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