I have lived in Derby for around 15 years, first when I studied at University of Derby when I graduated in 1999, then when I returned, settling down and getting married here.
I love living in Derby, the city is a great mix of old and new.
Here are five reasons why I think anyone thinking of moving to Derby or wider Derbyshire should just seize the day and do it.
1. Derby and the wider county of Derbyshire is a hit with locals and visitors alike, says resident Ria Ghei
From offering the best of local produce in Derbyshire to discerning foodies, and being the base of an acclaimed university, discover why I think Derbyshire is the perfect place to live. | Visit Derby
2. Location, Location, Location (Chatsworth Park, Peak District and more)
Derby is situated in the heart of the country. This makes it easily accessible to larger cities, which could be great for commuters, students and those who crave a slice of bigger city life but who also cherish the leafy green serenity of Derby’s neighbourhoods. If I plan my journey meticulously, a door-to-door trip from my Derby home to Nottingham city centre is around 50 minutes and central Birmingham around 80 minutes. Good transport links come courtesy of East Midlands Railway, Trent Barton’s Red Arrow bus service and we even have a local airport, East Midlands Airport. Derby is also near the beautiful Peak District, which means breath-taking scenery such as Chatsworth House, on your doorstep can be enjoyed in all seasons. Speaking of Littleover, did you know it is also one of the most desirable places to live in Derby? | David Vintiner | Chatsworth House Trust
3. Shopping on Derby’s prettiest street, Sadler Gate
As high streets across the country explore ways to entice shoppers, one of Derby’s prettiest streets is absolutely smashing it on the kerb appeal front. Cobbled streets, ancient architecture and a thriving business district is just one reason why Sadler Gate should be a giant draw to visitors and Derby residents alike. The street is home to independent boutiques with dynamic entrepreneur owners such as Karl Shaw. He owns a design studio, on the ground floor is a cafe and menswear store and the in-store experience is like no other in Derby. A few seconds away from Mr Shaw’s is 1NE which should be on any trainers’ fan list. This cool fashion store curates coveted items from private collections selling a capsule collection of streetwear. Milk & Honey Deli a few doors down is my go-to store for any occasion, if I’m hosting, or even just as a treat. Shelves jam packed with artisan products and a cheese counter that makes me want to live in the shop is just another reason why I adore Sadler Gate. | Cathedral Quarter BID
4. Top notch University of Derby
As a graduate of the University of Derby I can say first-hand how cool the university is. I am still in touch with tutors 25 years’ on and it is nice to have used my degree in Creative Writing and English Literature in my working life. University of Derby website says it is a top 15 UK university (Uni Compare Annual Student Review Rankings). The university is also one of the first in the country leading the way for AI oriented study. It has launched an International Business and AI degree which has been designed in collaboration with Rolls-Royce. | Submitted