Derby Train Station

When it first opened in 1839, Derby train station was one of the largest in the UK. At that time, the city was a dominant force in the Victorian industrial revolution – home to one of the world’s first factories and the Midland Railway. Although the current station has undergone decades of renovations (its iconic Victoria façade was removed in the ‘80s), the original clock still exists. Today, Derby is one of the most important stations in the UK, connecting passengers from all over the UK.

Things to do in Derby

Derby is the UK’s most central city, and as such one of the most historically important. It was at the centre of the industrial revolution in the 19th century, with the UK’s first factories built here. This heritage still lives on, with Rolls Royce, Royal Crown Derby and more still carrying on manufacturing in the city. But it’s not all industry; Derby has a thriving café culture, and is home to modern galleries, museums, and theatres.

As the name suggests, Pride Park – home to Derby Country FC – is the pride of the city. It’s more than just a football stadium, too; it turns into a 250m indoor cycle track, café, bar, and gym when the Rams aren’t playing. It also hosts cultural and music events, with capacity totalling 5,000. If football isn’t your thing, Derby also has a diverse range of dance, drama, art, music, and theatre. Venues you have to visit include the Guildhall Theatre, Derby Arena, and The Derby Shakespeare Theatre Company.

Most of your shopping can be done at Westfield Centre, which attracts visitors from all over the country. It features all of your favourite retail chains, as well as numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes. The Cathedral Quarter is perfect for independent shopping, with a wide range of small retailers selling niche products and gifts. If you’re searching for more high-end items like art, the Derby Art Gallery has some of the best collections.

Derby is a multicultural city, and as such has a wide range of food and drink venues on offer. Locals love to visit The Cotton Shed – a converted pub within a UNESCO world heritage site, harking back to the city’s industrial past. For Asian cuisine, you’ll have to head to Anoki; not only is it the best Indian food in the city, but the whole country. If you’re a fan of Tapas, Spanish Bar Lorentes is a muse-visit – the seafood Paella is to die for.