Derby Museum and Art Gallery

The Derby Museum and Art Gallery occupies a Gothic building designed by architect Richard Knill Freeman, containing paintings, decorative porcelain, and archaeological finds from different periods. Inside, the rooms display military history collections, natural science exhibits, and works spanning centuries of art.

The museum was founded in 1836 when Derby established its first natural history society, with the current Gothic building constructed in 1879. This growth reflects how the town developed its commitment to preserving local heritage and knowledge.

The museum displays an important collection of paintings by Joseph Wright, an artist from the 1700s who connected deeply to this town. Walking through the galleries, you see how his work reflects the ideas and interests of people living here during that era.

The museum opens from Tuesday to Saturday and also on Sundays, with visiting hours varying by day, so check ahead before your trip. Plan to spend several hours exploring the different galleries and collections at your own pace.

The museum holds unusual objects such as a hippopotamus fossil discovered locally and a famous racing pigeon specimen called the King of Rome. These rare pieces reveal the varied interests of collectors throughout the museum's history.

Location: City of Derby

Inception: 1879

Architects: Richard Knill Freeman

Operator: Derby Museums

Part of: Derby Museums

Address: The Strand

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-17:00; Sunday 12:00-16:00

Website: https://derbymuseums.org/museum-and-art-gallery

GPS coordinates: 52.92284,-1.47989

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:42