Derby

Derby is an ancient city with Roman, Saxon and Viking roots. Recently, Derby celebrated its 2,000 year as a settlement. In the middle ages, Derby was an important city in the industrial revolution, with the first water powered silk mill and the first water powered cotton spinning mill.

A museum of note is the Derby Industrial Museum which is situated on the old Silk Mill. The Silk Mill is a World Heritage Site and includes the Darley Abbey, the mill complex, and the historic village. The museum features exhibits on the industrial and technological achievement of the town and includes exhibits on Rolls Royce, railways, mining, quarrying and foundries. The museum also has many hand-on activities for children. If you go to the museum, you'll want to take public transit as parking is extremely limited. It is open from 10AM to 5PM most days, and entry charge is free.

Is shopping is more your thing, Derby has some of the best shopping around. The markets are an entertaining way to spend the day, as the stall-holders banter back and forth. You'll want to stop by the Eagle Centre which is one of the largest indoor markets in the UK. Also of note is the Market Hall and Fish Market, a beautiful architectural masterpiece.

If you enjoy walking tours, you may wish to visit the Derby Arboretum. The Derby Arboretum was the first publicly owned, landscaped, urban recreational park in the UK and is one of the inspirations for New York's Central Park. The Arboretum has recently been renovated, relandscaped and updated to return the landmark to its former glory. Live bands often play on the sports field, and there are statues and focal points in many parts of the park. There is also an extensive playground for the children to burn off some steam. Any time is worth visiting, but early summer is the best time to visit to see all the flowers and trees in bloom.

You may also want to visit the Derby Cathedral. The original church was built in 943, however no trace remains today. The current cathedral dates from the 14th centuary and is the second tallest tower in England. The tower is an excellent example of perpendicular gothic style of the 1500's. Inside is the oldest ring of 10 bells in the UK along with a beatiful nave -- or approach to the alter. Entry is free, but you may want to leave a small donation.

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See a Map of Derby