Sitting on the banks of the River Derwent, Derby is an East Midlands city that's been around since the Roman times. With a lot of history behind the area, it's no wonder that there are loads of great things to discover, with some more modern things to do thrown in as well.
Looking for inspiration? We've rounded up all the very best attractions and places to visit in Derby, ranging from free-to-enter museums to interactive adventures and pretty green spaces.
Fun Things To Do In Derby
Wing Fest
- Bustler Market, The Chocolate Factory, John Street, DE1 2QD
If you're after unusual things to do in Derby for couples, families and groups of friends alike, then Wing Fest might just be the event for you. This quirky food festival is all about chicken wings, featuring some of the worlds best vendors competing across three categories: BBQ, Buffalo and wild wings. These are all sold for just £1.50 each, so you can try as many as possible before voting for your favourites to be crowned the winner at the end.
This cracking weekend takes place from the 16th to the 18th May at Bustler Market. Tickets start from 19.50 (or free for under 12s), and they include a signature trucker hat on arrival. As well as tasty eats and bourbon, this gets you free access to axe throwing, arcade games, competitions and live music.
Food fanatics will love Derby Wing Fest 2025.
Derby Theatre
- 15 Theatre Walk, St Peter's Quarter, DE1 2NF
Previously Derby Playhouse, Derby Theatre has serving the community for decades. They work in partnership with the University of Derby to showcase the very best of local talent, committed to education and giving up-and-coming artists a chance to shine. They've won multiple awards over the years, from Digital Project of the Year in The Stage Awards 2023 to The Guardian Award for The Best Community Project in 2020.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, it's well worth seeing what's on at the theatre. From original shows to adaptations of classics like Of Mice and Men or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, they've got something for everyone.
Catch unique performances at Derby Theatre.
Take Part In A Murder Mystery Experience
- 10 St Peter's Churchyard, Derby, DE1 1NN
Looking to explore the city in a whole new way? For a day of sightseeing while also taking part in an interactive activity, check out I'm Puzzled's brilliant Murder Mystery Experience. You'll work in teams of two to six people to solve a high-profile murder case, all using just your phone.
This can be done at any time of day, seven days a week. Their handy app will guide you through the process of cracking codes, gathering clues and interrogating virtual suspects. Plus, tickets start from just £19.99 for the whole group.
Star in your own murder mystery all over the city.
Derby Cathedral
- 18-19 Iron Gate, DE1 3GP
One of the most stunning buildings in the area, Derby Cathedral can be found right in the heart of the city. Not only is it a place of worship, but it's also a gorgeous example of architecture and a Grade I-listed building with a lot of historical significance to it.
Founded in 943, this place is home to artefacts like the tomb of Bess of Hardwick, a memorial to Florence Nightingale and a striking wrought iron screen that was created by Robert Bakewell. The cathedral and its surroundings are totally free to visit, though you can also book a guided tour of the tower for £8 per person.
Soak up the history at one of the best free things to do in Derby city centre.
Museum Of Making
- Silk Mill Lane, DE1 3AF
Telling the story of over 300 years of innovation, the Museum of Making is one of the best things to do in Derby for families and friends alike. Their exhibits showcase everything from the world’s smallest engine run using a human hair to a seven-tonne Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engine suspended from the ceiling.
There's also a regular lineup of hands-on activities to get involved in yourself, from workshops on creating items of your own to kids' sessions. Entry to the museum is free, though there is a charge for certain guest exhibitions and events.
Find out more about Derby's industrial history.
The Great Game Treasure Hunts
- Derbion Shopping Centre, London Road, DE1 2PL
Any good day of sightseeing ends with a trip to the pub, right? That's the philosophy at The Great Game Treasure Hunts, a fun way to explore the city with family or friends. The self-guided adventure will take you all over Derby, uncovering hidden gems and historical tales along the way.
You'll solve puzzles, riddles and trivia on your way, in teams of up to four people (though you can split into smaller teams if there are more of you). You'll use your phone to guide you, with the aim of reaching your final stop - a pub. There'll be a table ready and waiting for you, and they even offer certain discounts for large groups.
This is one of the most unique things to do in Derby for adults.
Derby Museum And Art Gallery
- The Strand, Derby DE1 1BS
Established in 1879, this vast display of art and history was given to the city by the philanthropist Michael Thomas Bass. Derby Museum And Art Gallery has several different exhibitions to choose from, including nearly 2,000 natural specimens, and archaeology section and the world's largest collection of works by local artist Joseph Wright.
Entry is entirely free, and they're open Tuesday to Saturday every week. You'll often find guest exhibits here as well, so there's always something new to be discovered.
This free museum is a great way to learn more about the city.
Elvaston Castle
- Borrowash Road, Elvaston, DE72 3EP
Found just outside the city, Elvaston Castle and its grounds is a beautiful spot for a day trip. The Grade II-listed building was designed by James Wyatt in the early 1800s in the gothic style, based on the original house that dated back to 1633. The estate became open to the public in 1970, complete with 321 acres of open parkland.
It's registered as an area of special architectural and historical interest and there's plenty to see while you're here. Entry to the park is free, perfect for picturesque walks or summertime picnics. There's also an area for horse riding, as well as cycling routes through the park.
Admire the beauty and heritage of Elvaston Castle.
Markeaton Park
- Markeaton Lane, DE22 4AA
The most visited park in Derby, Markeaton Park has got all sorts going on. From the expansive lake to vast stretches of greenery, it's a great pick for relaxing in nature, and there are a number of fun activities to get involved in as well.
They've got mini golf, pitch and putt, foot golf and more, as well as an adventurous treetop adventure that involves climbing ropes and zipwires. Despite its many modern enhancements, there's a lot of history to the park as well, originally dating back to the medieval period.
Kick back in nature at this popular park.
Looking for even more things to do in Derby this weekend? Then check out the best bottomless brunches in the area.
