Trains, Planes & Automobiles

For the ultimate transport enthusiast

Morning:

Derby Market Hall – A must-see for lovers of Victorian engineering. This striking iron-and-glass landmark, designed by Rowland Mason Ordish - the mind behind London’s iconic St Pancras roof - was built with Derby-sourced materials and reflects the city’s proud role in the Midland Railway network.

Calling all rail fans! Don't miss The Greatest Gathering Free Family Fringe Event for model railway displays, train-themed board games, a fascinating railway history exhibit, vintage videos, and friendly chats with fellow enthusiasts. It’s the perfect blend of heritage, fun, and local pride - all under one magnificent Victorian canopy.

Place

Derby Market Hall

Market Place, Derby

Museum of Making (MOM) - Explore Derby’s role in shaping the future of transport from rail to aerospace. Don’t miss the Rolls-Royce and Bombardier displays.

Place

Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Silk Mill Lane, Derby

Midland Railway Study Centre – Located inside the Museum of Making, this archive holds the UK’s largest publicly accessible collection of Midland Railway material - a hidden gem for rail history buffs.

Place

Midland Railway Study Centre

Museum of Making, Silk Mill Lane, Derby

Lunch:

Dine at the River Kitchen Café at the Museum of Making overlooking the River Derwent.

Place

The River Kitchen

Museum of Making, Silk Mill Lane, Derby

Afternoon:

Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust – Dive deeper into Derby’s world-class aerospace story. Discover historic Rolls-Royce engines, pioneering jet technology, and personal stories from Derby's aviation pioneers. Visits are by appointment only, so plan ahead.

Place

Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust

Gate 5, Wilmore Road, Derby

Great Northern Classics (GNC) – A must for car lovers, this new attraction in a restored historic depot showcases classic cars, bikes, and motoring memorabilia.

Place

Great Northern Classics

274 – 278 Osmaston Road, Derby

Step into the Railway Village and walk the very streets that powered Britain’s rail revolution - Derby’s rail legacy lives here.

Optional Add-on:

Plan a day trip to East Midlands Aeropark,  Donington Park or Great British Car Journey you want to extend your transport-themed exploration!

Place

East Midlands Aeropark

Hill Top, Castle Donington, Derby

Place

Donington Park

Castle Donington, Derby

Place

Great British Car Journey

Derwent Works, Ambergate, Derbyshire