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    Study in Derby

    City guide

    Slap-bang in the centre of England, this friendly city gives students a lively music scene and plenty of top notch pubs. Hankering for fresh country air? The Peak District is yours to explore.

     

    I have never known a city with such great community spirit, especially when it comes to Derby Pride and Derby County game days. There is both rich history, such as the cathedral quarter, and modern facilities like the Intu Centre. It also feels really safe, and everything is within walking distance. (Third year student, University of Derby)

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    • Abigail

      University of Essex
      Criminology
      Hello! My name is Abi, and I'm currently in my third year doing Criminology with Counselling Skills. I aspire to go into the police force to be a detective! I love helping others and cooking. Alongside my degree, I am doing some content creation and photography as a fun hobby as I also have a passion for both of those things.

    • Advika

      University of Glasgow
      Common Law [LLB]
      Hey there ! I am Advika from India🇮🇳 and I am a third year Common Law student. I would be happy to answer all your questions about the university, studies, student life, or anything else. Please feel free to chat 😊

    • Abigail

      City St George's, University of London
      Politics BSc (Hons)
      Hi, my name is Abigail and I am a 2nd year Politics undergraduate, who wants to become a lawyer in common law. I am happy to answer questions regarding university, a career in law, etc! ❤️

    • Adrianna

      University of the Arts London
      Public Relations
      ✨Public Relations student passionate about creative storytelling & making an impact through strategic marketing. 📈Obsessed with digital analytics, media research 🔍, and fostering real connections within the media world! 🤝 👩‍🎓Active as a Peer Mentor, Senior Student Ambassador, and Media School Rep – always here to help and share my journey! 🌟 💡 Let’s chat all things PR, media, and beyond!

    • Abdul Rashid

      University of Aberdeen
      Biotechnology, Bioinformatics and Bio-business MSc
      My current career plan is to delve deep into the core of bioinformatics and try as much as possible to make it easy for future prospects in that field of study.

    • Abigail

      Bournemouth University
      BA (Hons) Film
      Hi, I'm Abigail and I'm a third-year Film student! I'd be very happy to answer anything about filmmaking and media related questions at Bournemouth University, and what it’s like to move out for the first time and settle into a new city! :))

    • Adrianna

      Bangor University
      Marine Biology
      Hi, I'm Adrianna. I'm from North West England. I decided I wanted to do marine biology, when someone did an online talk at my college all about the marine environment and biology. My main hobbies include sewing; gaming; watching films and series; and spending time with friends and family. Some of my favorite games are Animal Crossing; Slime Rancher; and Stardew Valley. Some of my favorite movies/series are: How to Train Your Dragon; Vampire Diaries; Grey's Anatomy; and Disney movies.

    • Aditya

      University of Glasgow
      Medicine [MBChB]
      Hello everyone, This is Aditya. I am a 2nd Year international medical student at the University of Glasgow. My aspiration is to become a cardiologist with a special interest in interventional cardiology and cardiac physics. I am open to any questions you guys might want to ask about the university, the medical school, or even the city and how it’s been adapting to a new culture as an international student :)

    • Abdullah

      Liverpool John Moores University
      Computer Science, BSc (Hons)
      Currently in my second year, I’m focused on making the most of my degree and building a strong foundation in my field. After completing my bachelor’s, my plan is to pursue a master’s in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. I’m passionate about using AI to tackle real-world challenges, and eventually, I’d love to work in a tech company that’s leading the way in innovation. My vision is to be part of projects that push the boundaries of what technology can achieve—I’m excited about what the future holds!

    • Adam

      Coventry University
      Sports Coaching BSc
      Hi there👋, My name is Adam and I am currently a first year Sports Coaching student and a lifelong Coventry habitant. Sports has been a massive part of my life which has lead me to studying the Sports Coaching Bachelor Degree here at Coventry. I am looking to pursue a career within Sport Coaching as I look to teach and coach others the amazing thing that is sport🤩. Feel free to ask me questions about the Sports Coaching Course and elements of University life😃 ⚽️🏀🎾🏓🏏

    • Aayan

      City St George's, University of London
      Actuarial Science BSc (Hons)
      I did my Foundation year from INTO City, University of London. Currently doing BSc Data Analytics and Actuarial Science. I plan to work in Data / AI Field, I have strong interest in Trading and Content Creation 😊.

    • Aditi

      University College Birmingham
      Finance and Accounting
      I am Aditi Ghevade, from the city of Mumbai, India. Currently pursuing my postgraduate studies in Finance and Accounting, I find immense joy in delving into the intricacies of financial systems and exploring the world of numbers. Fluent in English, Hindi, Marathi, and even French, my multicultural and multilingual background has equipped me with a versatile skill set.

    • Abbey

      Leeds Trinity University
      Criminology with Police Studies BA Combined (Hons)
      I am looking at going into the police after university and doing their graduate detective program. I enjoy watching all sorts of true crime documentaries.

    • Accalia

      University of Sussex
      Law with International Relations LLB (Hons)
      I would love to be engaged in various sectors specifically Media, Law and International Business, My end goal is to be an international consultant for Caribbean small businesses.

    • Abbie

      Leeds Trinity University
      Primary Education (Early Years 3-7) with QTS BA (Hons)
      Hi I’m Abbie 🫶🏻. I am a primary education student here at Leeds trinity completing my first year currently. I live at home and commute in for my lectures. I am a course representative so look very closely into student feedback. I am also the mental health officer for Leeds trinity and look forward to building campaigns to help those at trinity! I was very nervous joining university but realised very quickly it’s like family where everyone is supportive and tries to help at any opportunity. The campus is beautiful and I love to study in lots of different spaces to change up the scenery every now and again! I have a dog walking business to satisfy my love of animals and am also a student ambassador for university. I work part time in a pub not far from the university and love to go running in my spare time to clear my mind! I came from sixth form to university and knew what course I wanted to do. I’m here to answer all of your questions about life at university hoping to give an insight on the student life and what to expect!

    • Adeola Priscillia

      Coventry University
      MSc International Business Management
      I am currently studying International Business Management and have a background in education. Although I’ve recently started as a student ambassador, I bring previous customer service experience, which has strengthened my communication and interpersonal skills. I’m passionate about pursuing a career in global business, combining my interests in education and international management.

    • Aaliyah

      University of Hertfordshire
      Animation, film, games and creative media
      Hi, I'm Aaliyah! I am a final-year Games Art student and want to work hard to hone my skills and improve as a character artist! I am also a producer so if you want to talk about that specialism within Games and VFX then feel free to ask. You might be feeling a bit worried or uneasy about what there is and what the course entails but I am here to answer all your questions. No matter how big the question or how small :) Whilst I'm not in the other animation pathways (3D/VFX, 2D animation, Comic & Concept Art) I can always give my knowledge in those areas too. Just pop a message over! Very excited to talk about the courses with you :D

    • Abby

      Swansea University
      Sport and Exercise Science, BSc (Hons)
      I am a keen swimmer and am part of the University Swim team and have competed in the BUSL swim league as well as Welsh Varsity representing the university. The swim team is comprised of a range of abilities. I love what I study and am passionate about Sport Psychology and hope to pursue it as a Masters when I graduate. I am in my second year of the degree course and am loving it so far, so any questions about my course or the swim team are more than welcome.

    • Abigail

      University of Lincoln
      Dance - BA (Hons)
      Hi, I'm Abi and I'm a third-year BA (Hons) Dance Student. I'm from Suffolk. I started dancing from the age of 3 in Ballet, Modern and Tap and then also started training in Contemporary, Irish and Ballroom & Latin dance before completing both GCSE & A-level Dance. I'm now continuing my passion here at UOL and hope to continue this into a professional career!

    • Abdul

      University of Lincoln
      Architecture - BA (Hons)
      “Hi! Feel free to ask me any questions about the courses here in Lincoln and also about the city itself. I am more than happy to help you with any questions you might have.”

    What Derby's famous for...

    Peak position

    The UK's most central city is just a short drive from the Peak District and Alton Towers. 

    Derby city guide peak position

    Derby nightlife, according to students

    The nightlife depends on your preferences. If you like clubs, Mosh, Moomoos, and Pop World are the main ones. If you fancy a quieter, less ‘club scene’ drink, there are so many bars on the outskirts of the city centre, like on Friar Gate. (University of Derby student)

    Factories

    The Derby Silk Mill became Britain's first factory in 1721. 

    Derby city guide factories

    Derby nightlife, according to students

    There isn’t a hugely great nightlife if you’re really into clubbing (but Notts is only a bus ride away). Derby is better known for the pub scene. They’re friendly and cosy enough, so it makes up for it! I rate the Spoons a lot. (Third year student, University of Derby)

    Beer

    Camra – Campaign for Real Ale – has voted Derby as the best city for real ale. 

    Derby city guide beer

    Student life in Derby

    Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.

    Treat yourself

    Intu Derby is the best place to go shopping! It has pretty much any shop you need, including bowling, mini-golf, and the cinema. (University of Derby student)

    Low on cash

    Derby Museum is free, and Derby Theatre has £5 tickets on Fridays! (Third year student, University of Derby)

    When family visit

    Chatsworth is ideal for a family day out: beautiful parkland, posh house, fab farm, and lovely gardens. As long as your parents are paying! (Third year student, University of Derby)

    Feeling cultural

    The Quad is a creative hub that shows independent films at its cinema and has free art exhibitions. (Third year student, University of Derby)

    Grab a bite

    Annie's Burger Shack is, hands down, the best place to go for a special occasion. Every burger can be made meaty, veggie or vegan, and they can even cater for coeliacs. (Third year student, University of Derby)

    Friday feeling

    Bustler Food Market is an amazing place. Only open on select Friday and Saturday nights, it's worth paying a visit to sample amazing street food. (Third year student, University of Derby)

    Sunday chilling

    Derby has lovely parks: Markeaton Park, Darley Park, and Allestree Park are all great for a gentle stroll. You can hike for miles in the Peak District. (Third year student, University of Derby)

    Catch up with mates

    Milk & Honey and The Bookshop Cafe are fantastic locations for grabbing a coffee with a friend, or doing some quiet studying. (Third year student, University of Derby)

    Derby in pictures

    Market hall

    Since opening to the public in 1866, the market hall has been a staple shopping destination for locals since. From bakers to booksellers, the market hall has a little bit of everything. 

    Derby city guide market hall

    Living in Derby, according to students

    Chose to live in the city centre [to be] closer to the shops and city life, but still able to grab the bus up to uni. I did pay a premium because of my flat's location but it has been worth it. [The] downside of living in the town centre is that it is somewhat far away from the 'student' areas, such as [the] New Zealand area and Cowley Street, which can make seeing friends in those areas harder. (Third year student, University of Derby)

    The QUAD

    Here's your go-to for everything contemporary art and film in Derby, with exhibitions and events running throughout the year. 

    Derby city guide quad

    Darley Park

    Take a peaceful stroll through Derby's favourite park, located on the River Derwent. 

    Derby city guide darley park

    Living in Derby, according to students

    New Zealand – I live in my current house because it was down the road from my original halls (in St. Christopher's Court). This area is in the middle for me: town is a ten to 15 minute walk down the road, uni is about the same, My other [university] site is near it too. Perfect for a joint honours student going to different campuses. (Second year student, University of Derby)

    Derby Cathedral

    Derby Cathedral has events, including the Museum of the Moon to mark the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing. The replica of the Moon was inside the Cathedral for a couple of days, before continuing its tour around the world. (Meg Brian, University of Derby student)

    Museum of the Moon, Derby Cathedral

    Living in Derby

    Housing, travel, and budgeting tips.

    Where you'll find students

    • City Centre
    • New Zealand
    • Friar Gate

    Local transport

    • Weekly £24
    • Spectrum 7 Day Adult Ticket
    • Bus

    Student money tips

    The uni bus is free if you're a student. [It] goes into town, to the train station, to the uni, and to student accommodations. (University of Derby student)

    The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.

    ​Discover more savings on student life in Derby with UCAS student discounts. Find the latest deals, from fashion brands and eating fresh, to big discounts on tech and travel.

    Study options

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