5 special things you have to see in Derby including the Florentine Boar

While Derby might not be as big as many other cities in the UK, that doesn’t mean it isn’t special.

In fact, our humble city has a lot of cool things to brag about.

Like our role in the Industrial Revolution and our impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site, Derwent Valley Mills.

If you’re planning a visit to our super cool city, then there are a few little details you shouldn’t miss.

These are the things that make our city original.

1. Hanging car in the Museum of Making

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, eat your heart out, we’ve got our very own flying car here in Derby.

Hanging in the atrium of Derby’s Museum of Making, the airborne vehicle is a real eye-catcher and is not to be missed.

2. Ceramic skull collection

This strange display can be found on Derby’s Friar Gate.

A series of ceramic heads can be seen poking out of the ground beneath the trees near The Greyhound Pub.

The macabre collection commemorates the Reform Bill Riots of 1831 when rioters freed prisoners from Derby Gaol.

3. The Soapranos

No, it’s not a typo. This magnificent mural is actually the work of local street artist Soap Spray.

You can tell all your friends you saw Tony Soprano on the streets of Derby - and it’s not even a lie.

Find it on Monk Street.

4. The Witch’s Window, Derby Goal

This one isn’t for the faint-hearted. Legend has it a witch was imprisoned in Derby Goal and she is boarded up behind the window.

There’s no access to the room inside. You can see it via George Yard.

5. Florentine Boar, Derby Arboretum

Derby Arboretum carries the mantle of ‘Britain’s first public park’.

Within the walls of the Arboretum, you will find lots of plants, trees, and interesting sights, not least the Florentine Boar.

The Florentine Boar is a sculpture by William John Coffee and Alex Paxton.