Visit Derby and you have to stop at the Derby Museum and Art Gallery. The Museum and Art Gallery’s mixture of permanent collections and temporary exhibitions delights visitors of all ages, particularly during school holidays when the visitor can get involved in educational activities and events. Derby Museum and Art Gallery is famous for its collection of paintings by Joseph Wright, whose 18th century works are world renowned. The Museum’s collections include histories of rail and steam, Derby porcelain and a room devoted to Bonnie Prince Charlie. Don’t miss the 1001 Objects to Inspire room, which aims to pique interest with objects picked from the museum’s huge catalogues.

Great for: Day Trips

The Derby Guildhall Theatre is small and perfectly formed: an intimate space inside a Grade II listed venue, which is used extensively by local; experimental; and touring theatre companies. The Guildhall Theatre also enjoys connected club rooms, which are perfect for children or for CD and book fairs. When you walk in, look up. The Guildhall ceiling is stunningly beautiful, covered in reliefs and patterned glass. There’s a coffee shop in the Guildhall, and a good bar. Recommended for fans of live music as well as live theatre. Jazz festivals and groups frequently come to the Guildhall on tour.

Great for: A Good Show

Derby’s link in the Westfield shopping centre chain is open every day for shopping in over 230 stores, plus eating and entertainment in its restaurants, cafes and huge cinema. Visit Eat Central to eat food from all over the world in a massive 800 seat open space, or choose one of Westfield’s full service restaurants. Westfield Derby hosts events all through the year, and has plenty of entertainment for children during school holidays. On a rainy day in Derbyshire, the centre is a great place to hang out, get some retail therapy and catch a movie at the Showcase cinema.

Great for: Shopping