Alvaston Park: Riverside Green Space and Community Hub in Derby
A scenic riverside park in Derby with inclusive playgrounds, BMX tracks, sports courts, and vibrant community events for all ages.
Alvaston Park is an 85-acre riverside park located about two miles southeast of Derby city centre. It features a picturesque lake, inclusive playgrounds, BMX and skate facilities, sports courts, and scenic riverside paths along the River Derwent. The park hosts community events, offers accessible amenities, and is a cherished local green space for relaxation, active pursuits, and family fun.
A brief summary to Alvaston Park
- Meadow Ln, Derby, Alvaston, DE24 8QQ, GB
- +441332640789
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Friday 10 am-3 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Bring your bike or rollerblades to enjoy the smooth riverside paths connected to Route 6 cycle path.
- Visit during the annual Family Fun Day in July for stalls, entertainment, and fairground rides.
- Use the free football pitches and tennis courts available in the park for casual sports.
- The Waterside Café overlooks the lake and offers refreshments; check opening times as they may vary seasonally.
- Accessible paths and facilities make the park suitable for wheelchair users and families with young children.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Local bus services connect Derby city centre to Alvaston Park with stops near Meadow Lane and Alvaston Park; journey times range from 15 to 25 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for evenings and weekends. A single fare typically costs around £2-£3 GBP.
-
Car
Driving from Derby city centre to Alvaston Park takes approximately 10 minutes via main roads. Free parking is available on-site, but spaces may fill during weekends and events. The park is accessible year-round with paved entrances.
-
Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to Alvaston Park offers a pleasant 30 to 45-minute route along residential streets and green spaces. Paths are mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Alvaston Park location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Alvaston Park
A Vibrant Riverside Setting with Natural Beauty
Alvaston Park stretches across 85 acres along the banks of the River Derwent, creating a peaceful green oasis within easy reach of Derby’s urban centre. The park’s centerpiece is a scenic lake, popular for leisurely strolls, birdwatching, and model boating. Surrounding the lake are well-maintained lawns and seating areas, ideal for picnics and quiet reflection. The riverside paths connect to the wider Route 6 cycle path, offering smooth, scenic trails for cyclists, rollerbladers, and walkers to explore the tranquil waterside environment.Inclusive Play and Sporting Facilities for All Ages
The park boasts a recently revamped, space-themed playground designed to be inclusive and engaging for children of all abilities, featuring multi-play units, swings with accessible seats, a seesaw, roundabout, and trampoline. Adjacent to the playground is an outdoor gymnasium suitable for all ages. For sports enthusiasts, Alvaston Park offers football pitches, tennis courts, and five-a-side courts, all free to use. A nationally recognized BMX track and a skatepark provide dedicated spaces for adrenaline-pumping activities, separate from the children’s play areas.Community Spirit and Year-Round Events
Alvaston Park is supported by the active Friends of Alvaston Park group, which fosters community involvement and organizes popular events such as the annual Family Fun Day in July. The park regularly hosts seasonal funfairs, stargazing evenings, and other entertainment that draw families and visitors together. The Waterside Café, situated near the lake, serves refreshments and is part of the park’s multi-purpose pavilion that includes changing rooms, toilets (including disabled facilities), and meeting rooms.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The park is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring level paths suitable for wheelchair users, disabled toilets accessible with a radar key, and parking facilities. The pavilion and café are wheelchair accessible, ensuring visitors of all mobility levels can enjoy the amenities. Ample parking is free, and public transport options serve the area with stops near Meadow Lane and Alvaston Park.A Destination for Relaxation and Active Recreation
Whether you seek a tranquil spot to unwind by the water, a place to engage in sports, or a fun day out with family, Alvaston Park offers diverse experiences. The riverside setting provides scenic views at sunrise and sunset, while the open spaces accommodate picnics, casual walks, and nature observation. The park’s well-maintained facilities and community focus make it a valued green space for Derby residents and visitors alike.Ongoing Enhancements and Future Prospects
Derby City Council continues to invest in Alvaston Park’s facilities, recently inviting expressions of interest to operate the café, PlayZone, and tennis courts to enhance visitor services. The Friends group and local stakeholders remain committed to the park’s improvement, ensuring it remains a vibrant and welcoming destination for years to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Derby Ram Statue
3.0 km
Discover Derby’s iconic ram statue, a vibrant symbol of local legend, heritage, and community pride in the heart of the city.
The Hemlock Stone
14.8 km
Towering sandstone sentinel amid Nottinghamshire woods, blending ancient geology, whispered legends, and sweeping valley views for an effortless nature immersion.
Gazebo
16.0 km
A serene early 19th-century stone pavilion nestled in Wollaton Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil garden beauty.
Camellia House
16.0 km
Explore the historical beauty of Camellia House in Nottingham, a landmark showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.
Cathedral Hall
19.6 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
19.6 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
19.6 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
19.7 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Scale Space Nottingham
19.8 km
Experience collaboration and innovation at Scale Space Nottingham, the premier co-working space in the heart of the city, perfect for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
St Nic's Church
19.9 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
The Belgrave Rooms
20.0 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
Chinese Bell Tower
20.0 km
Explore the Chinese Bell Tower in Nottingham, a stunning historical landmark that showcases cultural richness in the heart of the Arboretum.
The Spot
20.0 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic heart at The Spot, a tranquil city centre landmark blending heritage with urban life.
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
20.0 km
Experience the magic of live performances at Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham's premier venue for theatre and music.
Old Market Square
20.1 km
Nottingham’s historic and vibrant central square, alive with events, iconic architecture, and a rich cultural heritage at the city’s heart.
Unmissable attractions to see
Derbion
2.8 km
Derbion: Derby’s vibrant heart for shopping, dining, entertainment, and culture under one roof.
Derbion shopping centre
3.1 km
Derbion Shopping Centre: Over 200 shops, vibrant dining, and entertainment in the heart of Derby city centre.
Cathedral Quarter Derby
3.4 km
Derby’s historic heart: cobbled lanes, Victorian arcades, independent boutiques, cafés and culture around the cathedral.
Derby Cathedral
3.4 km
Discover Derby’s historic cathedral blending Georgian elegance, rich heritage, and vibrant cultural life in the city centre.
Derby Museum & Art Gallery
3.5 km
Free world-class art and antiquities in Derby's cultural heart, anchored by the world's largest Joseph Wright collection.
Pickford's House
3.9 km
Discover Georgian elegance, local legends, and cultural heritage at Derby’s Pickford's House Museum, a free-entry historic gem with period rooms and unique exhibitions.
Reform Bill Heads (Friar Gate Heads)
3.9 km
Historic sculptural heads on Friar Gate commemorating Derby’s pivotal role in the 19th-century Reform Bill riots and political change.
Derby Ghost Walk and Jail
4.0 km
An 18th-century haunted prison where history, paranormal mystery, and immersive theatre converge in England's ghost capital.
Five Lamps Pub
4.0 km
A friendly and lively traditional pub on Duffield Road, offering a welcoming atmosphere and classic British drinks in Derby.
Darley Park
4.5 km
An 80-acre riverside park in Derby blending lush gardens, open fields, sports, and vibrant community events in a historic natural setting.
The Apple Tree Gift Shop and Teahouse
4.6 km
A charming village teahouse and gift shop in Ockbrook, blending homemade treats with unique gifts in a cozy, rustic setting.
Kedleston Hall
8.9 km
Explore Kedleston Hall’s stunning 18th-century Neo-classical mansion, rich collections, and sweeping historic parkland near Derby.
East Midlands Aeropark
10.1 km
Explore historic aircraft and watch modern airliners take off at East Midlands Aeropark, a unique aviation museum and viewing spot near Castle Donington.
National Trust - Calke Abbey
11.8 km
Explore Calke Abbey’s timeless charm, where history lingers in every faded corner amid stunning Derbyshire parklands and gardens.
Calke Explore
11.9 km
Explore ancient woodlands, accessible trails, and natural play areas at Calke Explore, the perfect outdoor adventure base within Calke Abbey’s historic estate.
Essential places to dine
Clock Bistro
2.9 km
A cozy bistro in Spondon blending English, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Carnero Lounge
3.2 km
A welcoming Derby lounge offering vibrant vegan and gluten-free dishes in a relaxed, dog-friendly setting with excellent coffee and friendly service.
The Dining Room
3.5 km
An intimate Derby restaurant serving exquisite, locally sourced British dishes with warm, attentive service in a cozy setting.
Emily's Steakhouse
3.5 km
Cozy British steakhouse in Derby offering expertly cooked steaks with classic sides and friendly service in a relaxed setting.
Darleys Restaurant & Terrace
4.9 km
Contemporary British dining with scenic river views in a historic mill setting at Darley Abbey, Derby.
Dovecote Restaurant
8.2 km
Elegant countryside dining with seasonal British cuisine and serene views at Morley Hayes Golf Club near Ilkeston.
Amalfi White
8.9 km
Stylish modern European dining and elegant events venue with inclusive menus and a grand ballroom in Melbourne, Derbyshire.
The Restaurant at Horsley
9.6 km
Elegant dining with scenic golf course views, serving British classics and steaks in a tranquil Derbyshire setting.
Craig Riley @ Donington Manor Hotel
9.7 km
Experience Michelin-level modern British cuisine in the historic charm of Donington Manor with Chef Craig Riley’s exceptional culinary artistry.
La Rock Restaurant
10.3 km
Experience refined Modern European cuisine with impeccable service in the warm, elegant setting of La Rock Restaurant, Sandiacre’s fine dining jewel.
The Boot Inn
10.4 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Repton offering award-winning British cuisine, boutique rooms, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bulls Head Repton
10.6 km
A vibrant and quaint pub in Repton serving generous, delicious meals in a warm, historic setting with a lively atmosphere.
The Tasting Club Restaurant
14.1 km
An intimate tasting menu experience blending rustic charm and refined flavors in Ashbourne’s historic Buttermilk Coffee House.
ZHUG
14.6 km
Savor vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with fresh, bold dishes and a lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s Bramcote Lane.
SUDA Delicatessen & World Kitchen
14.7 km
A lively Nottingham eatery blending global flavours with vegan and gluten-free options in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tubo Gift Shop
3.4 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and eco-friendly treasures at Tubo Gift Shop, Derby’s award-winning indie gem in the historic Cathedral Quarter.
Park Farm Shopping Centre
5.8 km
A welcoming local shopping centre in Allestree, Derby, blending independent stores with essential services in a relaxed community setting.
Typically Unique
6.0 km
Discover beautiful, realistic gifts and exceptional service at Typically Unique, a beloved shop in the historic village of Aston-on-Trent.
World Duty Free - East Midlands Airport
11.3 km
Shop premium beauty, fragrances, spirits, and more at East Midlands Airport’s World Duty Free with convenient Reserve & Collect service.
Kim's Handmade Gift Shop
11.4 km
Explore Kim's Handmade Gift Shop in Long Eaton for unique handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and creativity.
Something Different
11.8 km
Discover vintage treasures and unique collectibles in a charming Stapleford shop filled with antiques, records, and secondhand gems.
Shop
12.6 km
Discover Derby's unique shop filled with local crafts and artisanal treasures, a must-visit for every tourist.
England Pellegrino
13.5 km
Discover unique, handcrafted gifts in Belper’s historic England Pellegrino, nestled within the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.
Catherine’s Exclusive Fashion
14.6 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Catherine's Exclusive Fashion, Nottingham's premier boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Grocery Store & Florist
14.6 km
Explore Nottingham's local culture at this delightful grocery store and florist, perfect for unique gifts and fresh flowers.
Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories
14.6 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion, gifts, and jewelry at Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories in Nottingham, a stylish destination for every shopper.
Marks and Spencer
14.8 km
24-hour M&S haven at Wollaton BP: gourmet groceries, stylish clothes, and convenience essentials in Nottingham's suburban heart.
Aryaan Straps
15.2 km
Explore the vibrant world of fashion accessories at Aryaan Straps in Beeston, Nottingham, where style meets uniqueness in every piece.
Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore
15.4 km
Discover ethically crafted furniture, gifts, and clothing at Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore in Beeston, Nottingham’s hub for sustainable shopping.
Stratus Wallets
15.4 km
Discover unique gifts and treasures at Stratus Wallets, Nottingham's charming gift shop for memorable souvenirs and accessories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Malt Shovel
2.7 km
Historic 18th-century pub in Spondon, Derby, offering cozy rooms, home-cooked meals, and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
The White Horse
3.0 km
A lively Derby city-centre pub famed for live music, friendly vibes, and a solid selection of ales and ciders.
The Bell & Castle
3.1 km
A lively and welcoming Irish-style pub in Derby offering great drinks, casual dining, and a friendly community atmosphere.
Exeter Arms
3.2 km
A cozy, traditional Derby pub offering hearty meals, excellent ales, and a warm, rustic atmosphere in the city center.
Cosy Club
3.2 km
Historic elegance and modern dining converge in Cosy Club Derby’s vibrant Royal Buildings setting.
The Hideout Derby
3.3 km
A vibrant Derby pub blending gaming fun, street food, and bottomless brunch in a lively, social atmosphere.
Bunk
3.4 km
Lively Derby bar specializing in chicken wings and cocktails, perfect for casual evenings and vibrant nightlife.
BlueNote
3.4 km
Derby’s late-night hotspot for live music and DJ-driven clubbing in the heart of the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Slug & Lettuce - Derby
3.4 km
Lively cocktail bar and casual dining venue in Derby city centre, perfect for drinks, socialising, and celebrations with stylish vibes and great deals.
Blacksmiths Lounge
3.4 km
Lively cocktail bar and live music venue in Derby’s historic Sadler Gate, blending rustic charm with vibrant entertainment.
Silk Mill Derby
3.5 km
Historic Derby pub blending British culinary heritage with craft ales and a lively, welcoming atmosphere in the Cathedral Quarter.
The Distillery
3.6 km
Derby’s independent bar and restaurant with the largest spirit collection, innovative menus, and a lively atmosphere in the Cathedral Quarter.
The Flowerpot
3.6 km
Derby’s iconic real ale pub and live music venue blending traditional brews, vibrant gigs, and authentic Gurkha curries in a lively setting.
the Orange tree
3.7 km
A stylish and welcoming cocktail bar and events venue in Derby’s city centre, known for quality drinks and versatile social spaces.
The Mixing House
3.7 km
A lively Derby cocktail bar offering creative drinks, delicious tapas, and a vibrant social atmosphere on historic Friar Gate.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Attic Adult Club
1.0 km
An intimate adult nightclub in Derby offering lively entertainment, friendly staff, and affordable fun in a welcoming atmosphere.
MooMoo Nightclub Derby
3.3 km
Experience Derby’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, premium booths, and affordable drinks at MooMoo Nightclub on St James's Street.
Bar Fever Derby
3.3 km
Experience Derby’s vibrant nightlife at Fever Derby, a dynamic three-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and exclusive VIP areas.
Together
3.4 km
Vibrant Afrobeat nightclub and cocktail bar in Derby’s city centre with affordable drinks and lively events.
Mosh
3.6 km
Three floors of diverse music and affordable drinks make Mosh a lively, student-friendly nightclub in Derby’s city center.
The Regal Nightclub
16.3 km
Experience Ripley’s vibrant nightlife at The Regal Nightclub, where lively music and a welcoming atmosphere keep the party going late into the weekend.
The Association Nightclub
16.4 km
Ripley's vibrant weekend nightclub offering late-night music, dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
Ciros Nightclub
17.6 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
Tunnel Club
19.9 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
CRISIS
19.9 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
ICON
19.9 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Rock City
19.9 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
Rescue Rooms
19.9 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
20.0 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Stealth
20.0 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
