Is Derby The Uk’s Worst Short Break Destination? How I ‘bussed’ That Myth

With good public transport services to surrounding attractions, and riverside walks for ornithologists, the East Midlands hub defies pollsters’ findings

A peregrine falcon is flying high over the gothic tower of the cathedral while elegant grey wagtails hop across the curving weir among flocks of gulls and geese. Is this really the worst city in the UK? Derby recently came bottom in a Which? poll of big UK cities for a short break. I’m only passing through on my way to the Peak District, but I plan to stop over on my way back. It’s certainly a useful hub for reaching the Peaks by bus or train.

Derbyshire has good public transport, a new unlimited bus ticket (£33 a week), and a growing number of local visitor attractions with incentives for car-free visitors. I’m hoping to put all these to the test during a week’s exploring.