Things to do in...Derby

Often called the ‘UK’s most central city’, Derby couldn’t be better located. A stone’s throw from the natural wonders of the Peak District National Park, and perfectly positioned for a day trip to the cosmopolitan cities of Nottingham and Sheffield, there’s at least a weekend’s worth of fun to be had in and around the area.

Of course, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in Derby itself – particularly after dark. From eclectic pubs to glitzy nightspots, you may be surprised to find yourself spoilt for choice.

To ensure you experience the best of the city’s nightlife, we got in touch with five Derby devotees. Here, they tell us their top picks.

Emily Coates, Blogger at Recipes and Reviews, says…
“My favourite evening spot near Derby would have to be The Farmhouse in Mackworth; a beautifully renovated 18th Century farmhouse that serves up 21st Century cuisine. Think cosy log fires by winter and bright sunlight beaming through the roof by summer; while bright décor and printed tiles make this place quirky and fun. But it’s really all about the food – and their wood fired pizzas are the star of the show. toppings such as Goat’s cheese, marinated mozzarella, peppadew peppers, confit garlic butter, Chorizo ibérico and lamb ragu are enough to get your mouth watering. Finish it off with a local ale and sumptuous sticky toffee pud and you’ve rounded off the perfect rustic evening out."

Sophie Wright, Blogger at Sophie’s Notebook, says…
“One of my all-time favourite things to do in Derby (or anywhere!) by night is spend hours in the arcade at Hollywood Bowl in the intu Derby shopping centre. It’s just like a classic arcade, complete with air hockey, grabber machines and racing games – it’s next-level fun!

My favourite games would have to be Pacman Smash – think air hockey but with dozens of pucks to contend with all at the same time - and Mario Kart. You don’t even need cash at the arcade as all the machines work with a pre-paid loyalty card. Super easy.

Once you’ve finished battling it out in the arcade you can take a break in The Hollywood Diner bar and restaurant. They serve up all sorts to drink; classic milkshakes, fruity cocktails, ice-cold beer. Or if you’re looking for a bite to eat, they’ve got an impressive range of meals to choose from including hot dogs, burgers and nachos.”

Jay Allsopp, Blogger at Comic Books & Yellow Ducks, says…
“You can’t beat dining out by night in Derby! But hands down, my favourite independent joint has to be HIDE Burger Bar. It’s situated on Derwent Street just a stone's throw from the Cathedral Quarter. As you might expect, burgers fill the menu, but they do much more than that, including pancakes and an amazing salt beef hash. The range and choice of ingredients has award-winning potential and there's something for everyone. They've recently opened up for brunch too which is a whole other story. It's conveniently located right by the city’s main night spots, so you stroll over that way once the Halloumi Fries and Onion Rings have settled.”

Olivia Jade, Blogger at Dungarees and Donuts says…
“The perfect place to visit on an evening out in Derby is Revolucion de Cuba. It’s on the strand and is where you want to be if you seek great food, zingy cocktails and a fantastic atmosphere. With everything from tapas (yummy!) to live music for you to enjoy, you’ll get the full Cuban flavour!

It’s great fun any day of the week. Each night has a different vibe to it, with Fridays and Saturdays being busy and upbeat, while Sundays and weekdays more chill. The highlight just has to be the cocktails though, and I’d recommend trying the blood orange margarita, it’s a personal fave of mine!”

Danielle Sorsby, Marketing Manager at Visit Peak District & Derbyshire says…
“Personally, I think there’s nothing better than a long walk in the great outdoors – and Derbyshire and the nearby Peak District are the perfect place for this! After a long day in the fresh air, the perfect way to head into night is to have a nice, refreshing pint of locally brewed ale. Derby Brewing Company, one of our local brewers, run The Tap in Derby, which serves a whole host of local beers, craft ales and delicious food. There’s even a really cool roof terrace – the perfect place for a post-Peak-District-Pint!”

With plenty to do in and around Derby, both night and day, get planning your trip to the UK’s most central city with Leonardo Hotel Derby.