8 fun facts you probably never knew about Derby

By Abigail Rabbett

Customer Loyalty Editor

Published 8th May 2024, 13:50 BST
The Museum of Making in Derby next March. (Photo: Rick Tailby/Museum of Making)The Museum of Making in Derby next March. (Photo: Rick Tailby/Museum of Making)
The Museum of Making in Derby next March. (Photo: Rick Tailby/Museum of Making)
From world-famous inventions to spine-tingling ghost stories

Derby is a unique city that’s nestled quite literally in the heart of the UK.

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With a history rooted in invention, revolution, and innovation, it is a shame that Derby often gets overlooked in favour of bigger and louder cities.

That’s why we’re making it our mission to shine a spotlight on all the incredible things Derby has and continues to give the country (nay world!)

So, without further ado, here are 8 fun facts, you might not know about our exciting city.

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8 fun facts about Derby

1. Historic Centre of the Industrial Revolution

Museum of Making in Derby Museum of Making in Derby
Museum of Making in Derby | Ria Ghei

Derby is often cited as one of the birthplaces of the industrial revolution. It was home to the world's first factory, the Derby Silk Mill, which now serves as the Museum of Making.

2. Engineering Excellence

Derby has a strong heritage in engineering and is particularly renowned for its contributions to the rail industry. It is the home of the largest cluster of rail businesses in the world.

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3. Oldest Football Club

Pride Park Stadium - home of the Rams Pride Park Stadium - home of the Rams
Pride Park Stadium - home of the Rams | Creative Commons

Derby is home to the Derby County Football Club, one of the oldest professional football clubs in the world, founded in 1884.

4. Royal Connections

Derby's Royal Crown Derby is famous for producing high-quality porcelain. The company has been manufacturing porcelain since 1750 and holds royal warrants.

5. First Public Park

Florentine Boar in Derby Arboretum Florentine Boar in Derby Arboretum
Florentine Boar in Derby Arboretum | James Haynes

The city boasts the first public park in England, known as the Arboretum, which was opened in 1840 and was said to have inspired the design of New York's Central Park.

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6. Rolls-Royce's Home

Derby is the original home of Rolls-Royce, founded in 1908. The city remains a major centre for aerospace and engineering.

7. Geographic Significance

Interestingly, Derby is considered the "most central city" in the UK, making it a pivotal point during many historical events.

Derby is reputed to be one of the most haunted cities in the UK. The Derby Gaol, in particular, is a historic site known for its ghost tours.

Related topics:HistorySPOTLIGHTheritageRolls-RoyceEnglandNew York

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