DISCOVER

DERBY

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DERBY HERITAGE WALK 2

I.  The walk sets off from outside the Tourist Information Centre, and crosses the north side of the Market Place, where Farmers’ Markets are regularly held.

1.  MARKET PLACE

Excavations have revealed that the Market Place almost certainly did not come into existence until around 1100. An ancient trackway that bisected the town ran along the south side of the Market Place. Rapid expansion took place after the Norman Conquest and other markets sprang up: in the Corn Market grain was traded, at the top end of Friar Gate farm animals were bought and sold along with produce. A market was also developed in the Morledge, where fairs were held.

2.  WAR MEMORIAL 

The war memorial was unveiled on the 11 November 1924, by Alderman Oswald Ling.

3.  THE WATERFALL 

A most unusual feature constructed as part of the City Council, ‘Derby Promenade’, a scheme that stretched from the Spot to the Cathedral, involving pedestrianisation of the route. The Waterfall came in for a lot of criticism, but not from the younger generation who love it, particularly when the weather is warm and the sun is shining. It has also provided an excuse for an annual well dressing to be started.

4.  GUILDHALL 

After the previous building was gutted by fire in 1841, the Guildhall was completely re-built by Henry Duesbury, grandson of the founder of the Derby China Factory. A regular programme of exhibitions takes place on the ground floor.

 Go to Page 2         Heritage Walk Map

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PLACES TO VISIT ON THIS WALK

Derby City Museum and Art Gallery (01332 716659) houses the prestigious Joseph Wright collection of paintings. A programme of special exhibitions supports permanent displays relating to the city’s archaeology, history, wildlife and local regiments. The brand new Ceramics Gallery provides an additional attraction. Open daily apart from during the Christmas and New Year Break.

The Market Hall, the Borough architect and surveyor designed the covered market Hall in 1864. It had a spectacular vaulted roof using iron from a nearby foundry. The Market Hall opened for business on the 29 May 1866, when it was given a rousing welcome with a gala concert and choir who sang the Messiah. The Market Hall closed for a short period in 1989 for a major refurbishment.

Derby City Museum and Art Gallery (01332 716659) houses the prestigious Joseph Wright collection of paintings. A programme of special exhibitions supports permanent displays relating to the city’s archaeology, history, wildlife and local regiments. The brand new Ceramics Gallery provides an additional attraction. Open daily apart from during the Christmas and New Year Break.

REFRESHMENTS

Derby Cathedral Coffee Shop, (tel. 01332 381685) located opposite the Cathedral Centre, offers an award winning cafe  and Gift Shop, selling local produce, a display of the Treasures of the Cathedral, a Biblical Garden and an Education Centre. The Coffee Shop serves light lunches, sandwiches, cakes and a wide range of teas and coffees. Open Monday to Saturday 9.30-4.30pm.

**The Coffee Shop, won Best Tea/Coffee Shop  in the 2004 Derbyshire Food and Drinks Awards.

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