10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Derby

Join one of the frightening Derby Ghost Walks after dinner to hear stories about Derby’s haunted sites. Walk around Derby City Centre at night and listen to tales of witchcraft, murder, and other vicious crimes. Whichever guided walk you choose, your host will escort you to places around town rumoured to have ghostly occurrences.

The New City Centre Ghost Walk starts beneath Derby Guildhall Clock and delves into the story of the only policeman murdered in Derbyshire. Tour the Derby Gaol and visit the last county prison on the Friar Gate Ghost Walk. The Darley Abbey Ghost Walk takes you to the United Kingdom’s most preserved cotton mill, or you can search for river ghosts on the River Derwent.

Derby Arena in Pride Park is an exciting venue where sports lovers can enjoy a good workout after dinner. The multi-use indoor arena hosts badminton, cycling, and entertainment events for onlookers. World-class athletes zoom around the velodrome, and you can take a bicycle for a ride even with zero athletic experience. If your group is looking to play sports, there are lots of activities on the infield floor.

For a solo workout to burn off calories, the gym offers quality strength equipment, treadmills, and functional training machines. Stop by Café 42 for refreshing drinks and nutritious food after your post-dinner workout. Check Derby Arena’s calendar for concerts and other high-profile events that can accommodate up to 5,000 spectators.

Mercia Marina is home to Europe’s largest inland marina, just 6 miles from Derby City Centre. The former private fishery received a significant upgrade with the addition of its boardwalk in 2013. Centred around a bar and restaurant that overlooks the lake, the walkway presents beautiful views of docked boats and barges. One of the best things to do after dinner in Derby is strolling along the wooden promenade to visit boutique shops, charming cafés, and tea rooms by the water.

Nature trails around the marina help you find wildlife living in the area, and boat trips cruise along the Trent & Mersey Canal. The marina hosts movie screenings, musical performances, antique fairs, and other fun-filled events for a relaxing evening in Derby.

Derby Theatre has a long history of producing magic on stage. The theatre situated within the Intu Derby shopping centre partners with the University of Derby to train the next generation of artists to develop their talent. Combined with its professional programme, Derby Theatre treats audiences to compelling productions for all ages.

The 530-seat main auditorium hosts larger shows, but the theatre also has a 110-seat studio theatre for more intimate performances. Derby Theatre’s team organises 3 Main Stage productions each year and also has a family-friendly Studio Christmas show. Thanks to additional funding, the theatre looks to produce an extra show geared towards families.

The Hairy Dog has made a splash on the United Kingdom's alternative music scene since it opened in 2012. The small music venue in Derby has proven it can compete with larger clubs by attracting bands such as Unearth, Shadows Fall, and The Acacia Strain. In addition to hosting overseas artists, the club supports rising talent around Derby.

With a capacity of 400 and ground-level access, The Hairy Dog offers an intimate concert experience. The main bar serves a wide range of beers and ciders, and club nights attract an energetic crowd. Operated by true music lovers, The Hairy Dog continues to build a strong community catering to the alternative culture.

Rollerworld Derby is the place to get funky after dinner in Derby. Its weekly events welcome skaters of all ages, and the staff strives to produce a family-friendly atmosphere. About a 5-minute drive from the Cathedral Quarter, Rollerworld has the UK’s largest skating rink to give you plenty of space to burn off energy. The high-tech sound and lighting systems complement your skating experience.

Themed events take place throughout the week, and beginners can attend Learn to Stake sessions. The venue hosts 3 All Night Skate events each year, where the DJs crank up the tunes into the early hours of the morning. Whenever you need a boost, stop by the café for a refreshing drink or quick snack.

The Brunswick Inn is a piece of Derby history, just a short walk from the Derby Train Station. The triangular building dates back to the mid-19th century and was one of the UK’s first commercial inns. Despite falling into disrepair, the building later became a public house serving excellent beer. The multi-room pub brews cask ales and ciders on-site and has an outdoor beer garden.

Nationally recognised at the Great British Pub Awards, The Brunswick Inn is among Derbyshire’s most popular watering holes. The venue hosts an annual beer festival that produces around 30 ales, 16 ciders, and live music. For large parties, the brewing company’s staple brews and seasonal beers are available in 9- or 18-gallon casks.

Derby QUAD is a multi-use space in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter where the fine arts thrive. The cinema spotlights indie films from around the world, and its gallery showcases local, national, and international artists. Its exhibition programme is always open to thought-provoking displays that experiment with new ideas. The intimate space also hosts the annual Derby Film Festival that features premiers, short films, and special guests.

The staff hosts other interactive events throughout the year that engage their community of artists. Courses and workshops provide an educational outlet for creative individuals to hone their talents. If you’re craving a snack during your visit, stop by its fully licensed Café Bar for homemade, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes.

Hollywood Bowl Derby offers entertaining late-night fun for an action-packed party with activities for everyone in your group. Located on the 3rd floor of the Intu Derby shopping centre, the bowling alley features 18 lanes, a Hollywood-themed diner, and thrilling arcade games. Special offers include deals catered to families, students, and other large parties.

For a more exclusive experience, escort your party to the VIP lanes to enjoy lounge-style seating and play with colourful pins. The Hollywood Bar keeps you refreshed with a fantastic selection of drinks that include draft beer, bottled cider, and sparkling wine. After a few rounds of bowling, compete for prizes against your family and friends at the arcade.

Ye Olde Dolphin Inne is one of Derby’s most historic locations, just around the corner from the Cathedral Green. The pub has been around since 1530 and offers a delightful atmosphere to sip your favourite ale. Each room has unique tales to share, and the friendly staff will tell you about the building’s incredible history. The main bar warms guests up with an open fire during winter, and the ‘snug’ room creates a tranquil space to have conversations.

Don’t forget to ask about the ghosts that continue to haunt the pub to this day. From ‘the flying Scotsman’ to ‘the girl that lives in the cellar’, you’ll learn all the spirits that roam the halls of this haunted establishment.