Derbyshire is a county full of historic clubs at various levels of the non-league football pyramid.
Many clubs in the region have experienced recent success, with some of the most well-known operating in steps two, three and four of the system.
Whether you’re a fan of non-league, a ground-hopper, or just want to go and see football for affordable prices, here are just some of the clubs that Derbyshire has to offer.
Belper Town
Originally founded in 1881, Belper Town has one of the most interesting stories of any club in Derbyshire, having ceased to exist on three separate occasions due to financial issues.
The club were formed for the fourth time in 1951 and has remained competing since, occupying a position in one of the Northern Premier League (NPL) divisions for a large period.
Most of the period was spent in the lower divisions of the NPL, having spent 17 years there before getting promoted to the NPL Premier division in the 2013/14 season.
But their stint was short-lived as they found themselves relegated by the end of the following season.
Now competing in the Midlands division of the NPL, the Nailers currently occupy a play-off position as they look to regain promotion.
A visit to the Raygar Stadium, lying adjacent to the historic Belper mill complex, is one that should be on the list of any groundhopper.
Mickleover FC
Competing alongside Belper Town in the Midlands division of the NPL is Mickleover.
The Sports had enjoyed a lengthy spell in the NPL Premier Division but suffered relegation last year following a tough campaign despite their best efforts late in the season.
Mickleover compete at the Don Amott Arena, named after their chairman. The ground is also used by Derby County FC Women for their home matches.
Step three is the highest level that Mickleover have played at to this day, but they came extremely close to promotion to step two in the 2023/24 season.
This same season also saw them go deep into the FA Trophy, pushing Oldham Athletic all the way to penalties, where they were eventually defeated.
Currently sitting mid-table, the Sports have played out some entertaining matches this season and are well worth a visit.
Matlock Town
The Gladiators suffered the same fate as Mickleover last season, as they were relegated from the NPL Premier Division.
Now occupying a place in the East division of the NPL, Matlock Town are looking for a quick return to step three after recruiting some big names for the level.
One of whom is Conor Washington, who signed from Derby County in the summer, providing fans of the Rams with an additional incentive to visit the Proctor Cars Stadium.
Like the majority of teams in this list, Matlock have spent a large part of their recent history in the Northern Premier League, not quite reaching the heights of the National League North.
The club holds one of the highest attendances at step four, with 1,576 being their record this season when they hosted Lincoln United.
For an exciting matchday with plenty of atmosphere, Matlock Town is a great destination.
Alfreton Town
Alfreton Town were formed in 1959 following a merger between Alfreton Miners Welfare and Alfreton United football clubs.
Under the current management of Jake Buxton since October 2025, the club compete in the National League North, just two tiers from the EFL.
The club reside at North Street, now known as the Impact Arena, and has done so since their formation, boasting a total capacity of 3,600
2008/09 was arguably one of the club’s best seasons as they made the second round proper of the FA Cup and finished in the playoffs.
Although they are enduring a tough season in the National League North, this is still a must-visit as the club fights to remain in step two of non-league.
Buxton
Buxton are another Derbyshire side currently competing in the National League North alongside Alfreton Town.
The side won their promotion from the Northern Premier League in the 2021/22 season and have remained in step 2 since.
Managed by John McGrath, previously at Mickleover, the squad made it to the second round proper of the FA Cup, where they were eventually defeated 6-2 by Cheltenham Town.
As of today, the Bucks sit mid-table, within range of the playoff positions as the season enters its closing stages.
They play their football at the Tarmac Silverlands Stadium, which is recognised as the highest semi-professional or professional football ground in England, situated 1000 feet above sea level.
With high-quality football and a unique ground to offer, Buxton remains one of the most interesting clubs to visit in the region.
