Derby has many fine parks and gardens. There are more than 300 areas of public open space in the city, covering over 2,000 acres of land available for everyone to enjoy.

Many of our parks have an extensive range of facilities attracting visitors from near and far.

The city boasts the first and oldest surviving public park in England – Derby Arboretum – which was donated to the people of Derby in 1840 by local mill owner and former Mayor Joseph Strutt.

Darley Park houses the stunning National Collection of Viburnum and Hydrangea as well as a delightful butterfly garden.  Just a short walk from the city centre, the park offers fine views across Derby.

There are over 50 children's playgrounds across the city, as well as a wide variety of sporting facilities.

Markeaton Park attracts around a million visitors each year.  As well as offering beautiful vast, open parkland for relaxation, it also includes the popular Mundy Play Centre - a children's wonderland with plenty of facilities for all ages. 

Our smaller, local parks have a small range of play equipment such as swings and see-saws suitable for younger children, and a number of our parks and open spaces have ball courts, sports walls and youth shelters.

There's also equipment for the more adventurous on some of our parks, like wheeled sports facilities for skateboarders, rollerladers and freestyle BMX riders.

Throughout the year many events are held on Derby’s parks. These include the popular Darley Park Orchestral Concert in September and the Bonfire and Firework Display on Markeaton Park in November.

With so much to offer, Derby’s parks are well worth a visit. Whatever your interests, you’ll find something to enjoy all year round!

Large city parks

Allestree Park
Alvaston Park
Derby Arboretum
Chaddesden Park
Darley Park
Markeaton Park - includes Mundy Play Centre
Normanton Park
Osmaston Park

For more information contact Derby City Parks

Telephone 01332 715507

Fax 01332 716512

email parksadmin@derby.gov.uk