If you have 7 days to spend in Derby, you definitely won't run out of things to do! Here are some suggestions for how to spend your time:
Start your trip by exploring the city center. Take a walk around the Cathedral Quarter, where you can see the iconic Derby Cathedral and browse independent shops and cafes. Allow about 2-3 hours for this.
Head out to the Derbyshire countryside for a hike in the Peak District National Park. It's about a 30-45 minute drive from Derby to some of the best hiking trails. Allow 4-6 hours for this, depending on the length of the hike you choose.
Take a tour of the Derby Museum and Art Gallery. You can learn about the history of the city and see artwork and artifacts from throughout the region. Allow 2-3 hours for this.
Spend the day at Alton Towers, a popular theme park about an hour's drive from Derby. Allow a full day for this.
Visit the Silk Mill, which is part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can learn about the history of the textile industry in Derby and see working textile machinery. Allow 2-3 hours for this.
Explore the Derby Arboretum, one of the first public parks in England. It's a great place for a picnic or a stroll. Allow 1-2 hours for this.
Take a day trip to Nottingham, which is about 45 minutes away by train. Visit Nottingham Castle, take a tour of the Caves, and explore the city center. Allow a full day for this.
As for places to stay, there are plenty of options in Derby. Some popular choices include:
Wherever you stay, make sure to book in advance as hotels in Derby can fill up quickly, particularly during peak tourism times.