Derby is a city in Derbyshire, England, situated around the banks of the River Derwent. It is known as the site of the world's oldest roller coaster and is a vibrant cultural hub with a wide range of activities, entertainment and food. From the breath-taking Cathedral Quarter to the buzzing nightlife, you'll be sure to find something to enjoy with your date.
1. Derby parks and places for a walk on a first date
For a romantic walk and picnic, a great option is Darley Park. There are plenty of paths to take, giving stunning views over the lake and bridge, as well as a stunning backdrop of the Cathedral Quarter. There’s also plenty of wildlife to observe and benches to relax on. Another great option is Calke Abbey, a stunning historic country house and gardens with plenty of wildlife and wonderful walks. Finally, for a walk with a view, the Derwent Valley Heritage Trail takes you through some of the most breath-taking scenery in Derbyshire, with spectacular views of the Derwent Valley from the top.
2. Places for a coffee date in Derby
For coffee and cake with your date, Derby has plenty of venues to choose from. One is the popular Cosy Club, located in the heart of the city centre and offering a wide range of teas and coffee, as well as delicious cakes and snacks. Another great choice is PieMinster, a cafe located in Derby’s Cornmarket which serves “the best pies in Derbyshire” and specialises in locally sourced coffee and cakes. Finally, if you’re looking for something a bit more unique, why not try the Lambourn Coffee House in Friar Gate, a cozy cafe which specialises in unique coffee blends and a selection of artisan cakes and pastries.
3. Derby galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Derby is home to a number of galleries, museums and exhibitions, making it a great choice for a cultural date. The Derby Museum and Art Gallery is an excellent starting point, with an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world, which makes for a great conversational topic for any couple. The Silk Mill, a museum of industry, might also be worth a visit, as it is a great place to learn about the history of Derby and it houses a replica of the first factory in the Industrial Revolution. For a more modern take, why not try the Derby QUAD - a contemporary art gallery and cinema, which is home to some of the best contemporary art shows in the region.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Derby
For a great night out, Derby has a vibrant live music scene, with plenty of bars, clubs and venues offering regular entertainment. One of the most popular venues is The Venue, which hosts live music nights on a regular basis and has a great selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere. The Hairy Dog, another popular venue in Derby, offers live music and comedy nights, as well as regular club nights, making it the perfect spot for a date night. If you’re looking for something a bit more intimate, why not try the Live at the Lock-up, a gig space on the banks of the River Derwent.
5. Derby pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
If you’re looking for a great place to get a drink or something to eat with your date, Derby has plenty of pubs and restaurants to choose from. The Alchemist is a great option, offering sophisticated cocktails and a wide range of food. For something a bit more low-key, The Wellington pub is a great option, with plenty of beers and ales on tap and a garden for al fresco drinks. The Exeter Arms is another popular spot for a romantic meal, and offers a delicious menu of British cuisine, in a cozy atmosphere. For a taste of something different, why not try Slim’s Fish and Chip Shop, a pub with a great selection of beer and a tasty menu of fish and chips.
6. Other date ideas to try in Derby
Derby has some great options for a first date, from outdoor activities to cultural attractions. If your date is a bit of an adrenaline junkie, why not try the Land Rover Experience Centre, which offers a range of off-road driving experiences and activities. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing, why not take a trip on the steam train, which runs between Derby and Swadlincote, giving
