Seven fun and quirky things to do in Derby includes groovy quiz night hosted by Austin Powerz and ghost tour

It may be the tail end of the summer holidays, with the promise of a new school term looming on the horizon, however there is still time to squeeze in some fun days before it’s back to business as usual.

You will probably have done all the usual days out, from shopping to theme parks.

What about mixing it up and really going for it on the fun front?

There are plenty of quirky things to do in Derby which may not be on your radar.

They may be things you have never tried before, which makes the experience all the more adventurous.

Here is our round-up of seven quirky things to do in Derby, in no particular order, that will leave a lasting impression and a big smile on your face.

Seven quirky things to do in Derby

Austin Powerz Pizza & Quiz Night at Mr Grundy’s Pub Derby

This is not just any old pub quiz night.

Yes it is great for those to get into the competitive spirit, however what makes this pub quiz so very different from the others, is the host.

The quizmaster is an Austin Powers lookalike who bears an uncanny resemblance to that groovy Mike Myers.

Freddie, from Groovy Events, moonlights as Austin Powerz, heads up the quiz and additional interactive games of Higher & Lower and Open The Box for which there is always a cash prize.

All that fun and giving your brain a workout is going to make you hungry.

Grab a slice of a pizza from the Pizza Pony, where an Italian chef makes woodfired doughy delights.

For more information about this exciting weekly gig and others hosted by Groovy Events, visit their Facebook page here.

Derby Riverboat Trips

It’s nice when you can combine fun with a learning experience and riverboat trips organised by Derby and Sandiacre Canal Trust, are the perfect example.

The boat departs from Phoenix Green that you can access from the Museum of Making.

Take a trip on a 45-minute cruise where you can learn about Derby’s place in history, the river and wildlife.

Catch some rays on the open air deck and take in the sights such as Darley Park, Derwent Valley and Museum of Making.

There will also be activities and challenges for children of all ages, plus light refreshments available from the on-board café.

For more information about riverboat trips visit the website here.

Withers Gin School Experience Derby

If we said go back to school for a fun experience, you probably won’t believe us.

A gin school however has a nice ring to it, and the people at Withers Gin certainly have planned a gin-tastic day when you sign up for their gin school experience.

On the day you will sip a seasonal Withers gin and learn from the team how they make their gin in the distillery.

In addition to tastings, you can make your own bespoke bottle of gin using your favourite botanicals.

You will be working with what is said to be one of the best gins in the world - Withers G1 was one of the top three London dry gins in the world at International Wine and Spirit Competition 2020.

For more information and to book tickets, visit the Withers Gin website here.

Derby Ghost Tours and Overnight Vigils

Did you know Derby is reputed to be one of the most haunted cities in the country?

With Halloween playing peekaboo around the corner, now is the time to get your spook on.

The ghost nights and overnight vigils take place around the city.

Friar Gate Ghost Walk starts and ends at The Derby Gaol where you will hear blood curdling stories of ghostly goings on, murders, gruesome executions and punishment.

The City Centre Walk takes you to the site of Derby’s first Gaol where you will hear stories of treason, death and witchcraft.

Ghost stories about Viking Skulls, Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Last Pressing to Death in England will also be told, do you dare to book onto one of the tours?

For more information visit the website here.

Axe Throwing at Hatchet Harry’s Derby

Had a bad day?

Axe throwing can be a quirky way to spend an afternoon, but it could also be a great way to let off some steam.

Axe throwing is said to be a Canadian backyard past time.

This very modern sport combines physical strength and a sharp eye to hit that target.

In the 90-minute sessions, you will be taught around five different axe throws including trick shots.

There will be interactive challenges and games throughout, plus the opportunity to win prizes, feature on the wall of winners, and join the leaderboard if you find yourself excelling in the art of axe throwing.

For more information visit the website here.

Pottery Classes at Artcore Derby

That pottery scene in Ghost certainly put pottery on the map back in the day.

The art of pottery is making a comeback following high profile shows such as The Great Pottery Throw Down.

Now you can explore your creative pottery skills right here in Derby at Artcore in the city centre which is hosting pottery workshops with Kathryn Borg.

You can learn pot building skills and create your own collection of ceramic ware.

All materials, tuition and glazing is included in the workshop price of £25 per session.

For more information about these creative pottery classes visit the Artcore website here.

Paint and Sip Nights at Carnero Lounge and The Distillery Derby

Paining can be therapeutic and if you’ve always fancied yourself as the next Picasso, this event is one that has your prints all over it.

The Paint Club runs painting evenings in two of Derby’s coolest drinking spots, The Distillery and Carnero Lounge.

Here, people can get painting whilst enjoying a sip of something nice along with some tasty nibbles.

The website says people can expect a ‘relaxed evening of painting, socialising, nibbles, and your favourite tipple’.

All painting materials including a canvas are included in the ticket cost of £32, and food and drink will have to be purchased separately.

For more information visit the website here.