Derby Travel Guide

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 230
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Nestled along the banks of the River Derwent, Derby is one of the UK''s oldest towns, and recently celebrated its 2000th birthday. It was founded by the Romans but was also a Viking and Anglo-Saxon settlement. But the city really began to grow during the Industrial Revolution, when the Midlands was the powerhouse of the UK.

Today, the city has settled into a slow pace of life but there is still much of this past to explore. The old, original city centre circulates the cathedral. There are quant boutiques and cafes lining the narrow streets in the area known as Irongate.

While the cathedral itself is not the most beautiful in the country, the sixteenth century tower that it boasts is certainly well worth a visit. At certain times of the year the tower is open to visitors and the views of the surrounding countryside, particularly at sunset, are captivating.

At the Silk Mill, Derby''s and British Industrial history is celebrated. This is a great museum for kids as there are numerous interactive displays. There is a large collection of Rolls-Royce aero engines and railway and industrial history installations. ...
... Plus to top it all off, admission is free.

Derby Museum and Art Gallery is also free to enter and has a well-rounded collection or porcelain, or which Derby is a famous producer, that dates back to 1750. The rest of the museum has small but worthwhile displays on archaeology, military history, geology and natural history.

More history can be found at Bridge Gate. Perched on the banks of the River Derwent is St Mary''s Chapel, Derby''s oldest building. It also one of the very few surviving bridge chapels in England. Although opening times are now limited, it still hosts regular services and is particularly popular at Christmas.

When you consider how long the city of Derby has been around for, it''s not much of a surprise to learn that it is one of the most haunted cities in Britain. Ghost walks are run throughout the year taking you to some of the scariest places in England. But the best time to get spooked is on Halloween, when all the ghosts and ghouls are out to frighten.

Derby is one of only five cities in the UK to achieve UNESCO World Heritage Status and with all this history and natural beauty it isn''t hard to see why. The Derwent Valley Mills achieved World Heritage status because the area was the birthplace of the factory system where 18th century waterpower was harnessed for textile production. Today the region is outstandingly beautiful and is the perfect place for walks and picnics. Bonny Kominek is a travel expert and freelance writer. They recommend Octopus Travel for Derby hotels.