Jobs in Derby | Pictures of Derby

Derby made its name as the pioneer of silk, bone china and Rolls-Royce engines. However, although the physical aesthetics of the city do not reflect the beauty of the output it is famed for, Derby is nevertheless a city that is undergoing a period of transition and redevelopment that will ensure its growing appeal as an ideal place to live and work.

Getting around Derby
Driving into the centre of Derby is much like entering any major city centre – slow moving traffic that could try the patience of the most saintly driver. Given its close proximity to the M1 which passes about ten miles to the east of the city and the M42 to the south, the rush-hour traffic is eased somewhat by the Park & Ride schemes that operate from the Meteor Centre and Pride Park . But should you choose to drive there are around 10 main car parks in the centre catering for 2,500 cars – not many for a city with a working population of around 160,000.

And given Derby 's significant history as a major centre for the rail industry, it goes without saying that the city is well-served by its rail network that is operated by East Midlands Trains (for the surrounding areas) and Cross Country. There also remain small local stations at Peartree and Spondon, although services are fairly limited, especially at the former.

Local bus services in and around Derby are run by a number of companies, but principally Trent Barton and Arriva Midlands. With stops throughout the city centre, most services operate until 11:15 at night which gives you plenty of time to catch the bus after last orders have been called.

Eating, drinking and shopping in Derby
Today, this large regional city has all the modern facilities you would expect. Divided into two distinct sections, shopping in Derby takes you into the Cathedral Quarter – with its smaller independent shops, boutiques and home to Derby's café culture - in the city centre and the large Westfield shopping centre on the outskirts, complete with the usual array of high street stores, multiplex cinema and food court offering a wide choice of places to eat.

But for something different, the Eagle Centre Market and the Market Hall are open every day. As well as the market the Eagle Centre has a selection of chain stores. More shops stretch along the roads away from the Cathedral.

As for having a wee tipple after work or at the weekend, head to the Friar Gate area where you will find a good choice of bars and clubs.

And given the dominance of the Gothic-like Cathedral and other such architectural gems such as the Shire Hall (c.1660) in the city, Derby has been named "Ghost capital of Britain " with over 1,000 paranormal sightings recorded in recent years.

The city centre has a rich mix of arts, tourism and cultural venues that will appeal to all tastes. The Playhouse has a modest reputation, whereas the newly opened QUAD is the most significant cultural development in Derby with screens showing both independent and mainstream cinema, two gallery spaces housing contemporary visual arts, a digital studio, participation spaces, digital editing suites, artist's studio and the BFI Mediatheque.

Elsewhere, the Cathedral, Arboretum and the Industrial Museum are ideal places to escape and while-away the hours.

Derby is also passionate sporting city – home to Derby County and next to the Donington Grand Prix race circuit. The city's critically acclaimed Playhouse theatre and regional Dance Centre are complemented by a mix of live music venues, from intimate bars such as Ryans to the 33,000-seater Pride Park Stadium which plays host to a number of non-football related events and is one of the UK 's leading music stadia.

Main residential areas
The City of Derby will appeal to those in search of unspoilt tradition and character with the local Council continuing to be rated among the best in England and Wales by the independent Audit Commission, which has awarded it four-star status - the highest possible. Indeed, Derby and the surrounding area is well-known for its outstanding school system and has the largest educational authority in the country with over 400 schools.

With a population of about 234,000 and over 90,000 homes, Derby offers a wide range of accommodation, from traditional Victorian houses and Grade II listed buildings to modern developments and apartments - typically the result of a mill conversion – catering for families, single people and students alike.

Housing in the city centre is limited to apartments which is ideal for young professionals and couples without children given the close proximity to the University of Derby . Elsewhere, Allestree, Darley Abbey, Mackworth Estate); Kedleston, Mackworth (village) and Quarndon are popular residential districts for professionals. Whereas the area of Mickleover (DE3) is well-suited for families or older couples, having mainly semi-detached houses as available residential property.

If you're thinking of moving to the area, take a look at some of the current property available to buy or let in Derby.

Take a closer look
A picture is worth a thousand words. You can see some images from in and around Derby below.

Looking for local vacancies? See all current jobs in Derby or find out more information on the local area.