Derby is an industrial city noted mainly for its Rolls-Royce works and large china manufacturers. It lies on the west bank of the Derwent not far from its junction with the Trent. The town flourished during the Industrial Revolution of the 18th century and preserves many buildings of that period,
particularly in the center. It has a notable cathedral with a tower that dates from 1510 to 1530. Derby is a good center from which to explore the Peak District, now a national park. Darley Park is the site of a free open-air concert each year.
The Roman fort of Derventio lay on the opposite bank of the Derwent at Little Chester. In 1715 John Lombe built the first silk mill in England here, and in 1756 William Duesbury founded the first porcelain manufactory. Thereafter silk and porcelain brought the town prosperity, and it grew rapidly. In 1877 the Royal Crown Derby Porcelain Company was established, reviving the manufacture of porcelain. Derby's involvement in the motor industry began in 1906 with the founding of Rolls-Royce by Frederick Henry Royce; the company began exporting cars almost immediately.
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