Home to a UNESCO World Heritage site, an ancient river, castles and country estates, landscaped gardens, immersive museums, fine-dining institutions and lively pubs, Derby, England, sometimes flies under the radar, frequently overshadowed by larger cities like London, Manchester and Liverpool. But this East Midlands city in Derbyshire holds many charms.

© Derby Museums

On the banks of River Derwent is Museum of Making, located on the former site of the silk-making Lobe’s Mill. The award-winning Museum of Making comprises the southern end of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage site and details Derby’s 300-year history of making, featuring a variety of different galleries and collections charting the city’s manufacturing history, including Flight Deck, which delves into the history of Rolls-Royce and the brand’s presence in and around Derby. There’s some great views overlooking the river and city, too.

Calke Abbey and Gardens © Susan Guy

Just south of Derby, about a 30-minute drive away, is the imposing and haunting Calke Abbey. Once a 12^th-century abbey, the current structure is a Baroque mansion dating to the early 1700s. Now open to the public as part of the National Trust, Calke Abbey showcases an interesting duality of opulence and neglect. While the exterior’s grand columns and windows display signs of old wealth, within, rooms are deliberately displayed in a state of decline to reveal the effects of time on country houses and the families who called them home. Part of the National Trust, the abbey also boasts some beautiful gardens, including a walled garden and kitchen garden, as well as nearby nature reserves.

Back in the heart of Derby, sports enthusiasts should time their trip to coincide with a soccer match at Pride Park Stadium, home of the Derby Rams. Holding up to 40,000 attendees, this stadium hosts countless matches to see the home team win and climb the league.

© The Bless

Before or after a match, enjoy a pint (or two) with friends (or strangers) at Blessington Carriage. This indoor/outdoor-style pub welcomes all to sit and sip on a refreshing pint of beer with good company and attentive and friendly staff. On nice evenings, head outside and relax on the pub’s patio. Embracing classic English hospitality and charm, Blessington Carriage has become a staple and favorite of Derby locals.

© The Bless

For fine dining with a view, there’s no better place than Darley’s Restaurant and Terrace, an award-winning establishment offering British and European dishes with a modern twist. Even more unique is the restaurant’s location: Diners indulge in fresh, decadent dishes within a 200-year-old former mill. Choose between dining within historic Darley Abbey Mills or out on one of its two waterfront terraces. Highlight menu items include Gressingham duck breast, pan-fried Cornish cod and a nine-course tasting menu showcasing the best ingredients and flavors of Derby.

© Darley’s Restaurant

What better way to enjoy Derby and its countryside than a stay at a historic estate? At Delta Hotels Breadsall Priory Country Club, the oldest Marriott property in the world (dating back to 1266), guests enjoy easy access to many nearby attractions like Kedleston Hall and Chatsworth House. In addition to authentic English countryside guestrooms and suites, the hotel also features a spa, heated indoor pool, gym, two golf courses and two on-site restaurants.

© Darley’s Restaurant

Derby can be reached by train from many cities, including London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham.