Derby, England Tourist Attractions
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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.
Cathedral
The church of All Saints became the Cathedral in 1927. The tower, built 1508-1527, is 210ft/64m high; the church itself was remodeled by James Gibbs in 1722-1725. It contains the tombs of Bess of Hardwick (Elizabeth Countess of Shrewsbury, died 1608) and Henry Cavendish.
Museum & Art Gallery
The Derby museum has several interesting sections. One is devoted to the town's history and includes a Bonnie Prince Charles Room, with wood paneling from Exeter House where the Young Pretender lodged in 1745. Others cover the growth of technology, with, for example, a model of the Midland Railway, local archaeology, and the region's flora and fauna. The adjoining art gallery has a collection of 24 paintings by local artist Joseph Wright (1734-97), or Wright of Derby as he is usually known; also displays of precious porcelain.
Georgian Houses
The Market Place, Irongate and Friargate, the latter spanned by a Victorian railroad bridge, all retain some fine Georgian houses.Also noteworthy are the County Hall (1660) and Assembly Rooms (1764).
Eagle Centre
The modern Eagle Centre with its shops, market and theater makes a stark contrast to the older shopping areas of Derby.
Industrial Museum
The Industrial Museum (a short distance northwest of Derby; Rolls-Royce aero engines etc.) occupies a former silk mill founded in 1717. Entrance is through an elaborate wrought iron gate (1728) by Robert Blakewell.
Donington Collection
Numerous racing cars and motorcycles are to be found in the Donington Grand Prix Collection. Of particular note is a Spitfire that rests in the center of the track.
Morley - Breadsall Priory Country Club
There are two golf courses, tennis and squash courts, a swimming pool, a fitness studio and a snooker room located in this 200 acre resort.
Royal Crown Derby - Factory
Behind the scenes tours are offered at the Royal Crown Derby factory.
