Serenity seeker

Derby and the surrounding countryside, as well as the Peak District, has vast open green space to explore, allowing you to easily wind down and de-stress from your studies.

What’s more, Markeaton Park, Darley Park and Allestree Park are all within walking distance of our main university campus at Kedleston Road.

If the outdoors isn’t your thing, and you find shopping and indoor activities relaxing, Derby’s Derbion shopping centre features high-profile brands such as Superdry, Next, H&M and Game, as well as a Showcase Cinema, Hollywood Bowl and Paradise Island Adventure Golf.

Outside features the cobbled Cathedral Quarter, where you can visit independent boutique and vintage shops whilst enjoying a calm, friendly atmosphere. 

And maybe you don’t enjoy shopping at all and enjoy local cafés and quiet lunches. If that’s you, pop along to Apple Tree, Bear and Heavenly Desserts for something sweet or savoury.

Fancy a stroll? Markeaton Park and Darley Park are beautiful parks, just a short walk from the University. Both are among six of our city's parks that have Green Flag status, which puts them among the best in the world! 

If you’re looking for a calming city to complete your university degree, come to Derby!

  1. Chill out in Markeaton Park
  2. Go shopping at Derbion
  3. Enjoy spectacular views from a cable car at Matlock Bath
  4. Go boating, wildlife watching and shopping all at Mercia Marina
  5. Have a chilled lunch at The BookCafé
  1. Visit the ‘oasis of calm’ that is Chesterfield Canal
  2. Go walking, cycling or horse riding along the Five Pits Trail
  3. Explore ancient woodlands at Linacre Reservoir
  4. Head to Queen’s Park for their café, lake and miniature railway
  5. Follow the art sculpture trail or try your hand at petanque at Homebrook Valley Park
A student talking on her mobile phone in a cafe

I get very busy studying and doing work, so I like to find a place to relax. It's great being so close to Markeaton Park because it's the perfect place to visit to find that relaxing atmosphere. I really like the café.

Maria Robert
Marketing and Media Studies
A University of Derby student looks at a tour guide map in the trails of the Peak District. Wearing a fur lined hooded coat, bright red trousers and black and white jumper she looks relaxed and at peace.
A female student looking at the selection of cakes at Markeaton Cafe
A University of Derby students sits in Pavillion Gardens in Buxton admiring the view of the plants and flowers around her, taking photos on her Smart Phone.
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