Darley Park

Within walking distance of the city centre, Darley Park, given to the city by the Evans family, offers fine views of Derby. You will find it a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The river Derwent flows through the park providing a natural path to follow along one side of it. You can return through Darley fields on the opposite bank.

Gardens

Here you will find  some beautiful and important gardens. For example, the hydrangea collection is the largest in Britain and the third largest in the world. It now holds over 400 different types and is still growing.  Next to this, you will see the butterfly garden which boasts a beautiful array of butterflies – they are a sight to see in the summer months.

Wildlife

Nearby, you will also find two larger wildlife sites in Darley Abbey along the River Derwent corridor. Darley and Nutwood Local Nature Reserve and the Darley Park Wildflower Meadow provide the perfect home to a wide range of common species and a few rarities.

Refreshments

If you are looking for a place to rest your legs and warm up after a walk in Darley Park, then the Tea Rooms is the place for you. Darley Park café is situated in the last remaining room of Darley Park’s former mansion, Darley Hall. Serving a range of hot and cold drinks, hot food, cakes and ice cream, the café is a great little spot to sit down and enjoy the view over the terrace of the whole park and the city beyond. It opens 9am to 5pm in the summer, and 9.30am to 4.30pm in the winter.

Sports Facilities

There are tennis courts and football pitches available to hire and Derby Rowing club is also based here. The river here has been the scene of an annual regatta for many years.