As lockdown restrictions begin to ease, we’ve had a look ahead into the best parks in Derby for summer 2021. Coincidentally, all lockdown restrictions are hoped to be lifted on June 21st, which is also officially the first day of summer.

Markeaton Park

Placed between the university’s main campus at Kedleston Road and Markeaton Street, Markeaton Park is very popular amongst university students, additionally the unibus also stops off here making it free to get to for university students!

Markeaton Park has activities for all! Two tennis courts and a basketball/futsal court are located right next to the car park, not far from the pitch and put/footgolf course across one side of the park. Fishers are welcome too at Markeaton Lake just across from Mundy play centre.

It was recently confirmed that outdoor theatre and film shows will return to Markeaton Park this summer at the Craft Village, making Markeaton a Covid safe outdoor cinema.

Alvaston Park

Alvaston Park is the place to be if you’re a cycling buff, trails are bike friendly as well as being home to Derby’s biggest BMX track, and skateboard park, but make sure to strap on your helmet and stay safe!

Within reach of Pride Park and Derby Arena, Alvaston Park is easy to get to via the A6.

The park also sits next to the River Derwent and Alvaston Pond making it the perfect place to feed the ducks and sit bird watching. Also, the food court means you won’t have to worry about bringing your own snacks

Arboretum Park

The smallest park on this list, Derby Arboretum is home to beautiful greenery, wildlife, and ponds throughout the park. The park is famous for being Britain’s first public park being opened in 1840 following local philanthropist Joseph Strutt’s land donation and designed by John Claudius Loudon.

The Arboretum is located in the Rose Hill area near the London Road Community Hospital making this the closest park to Derbion and a great place to relax after a busy day of shopping.

Darley Park

Only a stones throw away from the city centre, Darley Park is one of the most accessible parks on this list as you can join on anywhere from the A6 or Alfreton Road.

Home to over 10 football pitches, Darley Park is the place to be if you are a footie fan. But that’s not all, two basketball courts, three tennis courts, an outdoor gym, two cricket pitches, and a short walk to Derby Rugby Club make Darley a sporting mecca.

But, if you’ve just come for a nice leisurely stroll you’re also in luck. Darley Park is situated either side of the River Derwent, giving you beautiful riverside views throughout the park. The sheer size of Darley’s fields also make it perfect for a picnic in the sun.

Allestree Park

The largest park on this list, Allestree is home to a golf course and grand hall, however being the furthest park from the city centre we’d advise you drive here and make use of the free parking.

Allestree Park Lake is home to many beautiful birds such as Kestrels, various Tits, and even Robins making it the bird watchers dream.

Situated near Quarndon, Allestree is accessible by the A6 on the way to Belper.

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