Pickford's House Museum: Georgian Elegance and Local Heritage in Derby
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.
Pickford's House Museum in Derby is an exquisite Georgian townhouse showcasing 18th to 20th-century domestic life. Once the home and professional showcase of architect Joseph Pickford, it features period rooms, historic costume displays, and a unique Dracula exhibition. Located on Friar Gate, this free-entry museum offers a glimpse into Derby's architectural and cultural past, complemented by a charming garden and a welcoming shop.
A brief summary to Pickford's House
- 41 Friar Gate, Derby, DE1 1DA, GB
- +441332715181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Wednesday morning to join the free guided tour at 10:30 AM for an in-depth understanding of the house and its history.
- Take time to explore the small garden for a peaceful break amid your museum visit.
- Use the free car park located at the rear of the museum accessed from Agard Street for convenient parking.
- Check out the museum shop in the Brewhouse for unique gifts and traditional toys inspired by the museum’s themes.
- Don’t miss the 'Dracula Returns to Derby' exhibition, which highlights an unusual local connection to the famous vampire story.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Car
Visitors can reach Pickford's House by car, with free parking available at the rear accessed via Agard Street. Additional pay-and-display parking is available on Friar Gate. Travel time from Derby city centre is approximately 10 minutes depending on traffic.
-
Train
Derby Station is about 1.3 miles from Pickford's House, roughly a 30-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Trains connect Derby directly to London and other major cities, making the museum accessible for day trips.
-
Bus
Frequent bus services operated by Trent Barton and Arriva run into Derby city centre. From the bus station, it is a 15-minute walk through the city centre to Pickford's House. Tickets typically cost between £2 and £5 depending on the route.
-
Bicycle
Pickford's House lies on Derby cycle routes 54 and 68, with secure bicycle parking available on site. Cycling from central Derby takes around 10 minutes via dedicated cycle paths.
Pickford's House location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
Discover more about Pickford's House
A Glimpse into Georgian Architecture and Life
Pickford's House Museum stands as a beautifully preserved example of Georgian domestic architecture in the heart of Derby. Built and lived in by Joseph Pickford, a prominent 18th-century architect, the house served as both his family home and professional showcase. Visitors can explore the ground floor's period rooms, which retain original features and décor, offering an authentic window into the lifestyle of the Georgian era. The contrast between the grandeur of the master’s quarters and the servant’s areas reveals much about social hierarchies of the time.Exhibitions Bridging History and Local Lore
Beyond its architectural significance, the museum hosts engaging exhibitions that connect Derby’s heritage with broader cultural stories. Notably, the 'Dracula Returns to Derby' exhibition explores the intriguing local ties to Bram Stoker’s famous vampire tale, adding a unique narrative layer to the visit. Additionally, displays of historic costumes trace fashion evolutions from the 18th century onwards, while artworks by Joseph Wright of Derby enrich the cultural experience with fine art insights.A Welcoming Atmosphere and Garden Retreat
The museum’s setting on Friar Gate, surrounded by cobbled streets and historic buildings, creates an atmospheric backdrop. Visitors can unwind in the small but pleasant garden, a tranquil spot that complements the indoor experience. The garden reflects the period’s horticultural tastes and provides a peaceful pause after exploring the house.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
Pickford's House offers free admission, making it an accessible cultural destination. The visitor entrance is thoughtfully designed with a ramp to ensure accessibility for all guests. A free car park is available at the rear, with additional pay-and-display parking nearby. Although there is no café, the museum shop located in the Brewhouse on the lower ground floor offers traditional toys, souvenirs, and gifts inspired by the museum’s themes.Location and Surroundings
Situated at 41 Friar Gate, the museum is a short walk from Derby city centre and its transport hubs. The nearby Derby train station is approximately 1.3 miles away, reachable by a 30-minute walk or local bus services. Cycle routes pass close by, with bike parking available on site. The area around Friar Gate is rich in historic charm, making the museum a perfect stop for those exploring Derby’s heritage quarter.Engaging Experiences for All Visitors
Pickford's House Museum appeals to a diverse audience, from history enthusiasts and architecture lovers to families and cultural tourists. Its blend of period authenticity, local legends, and art exhibitions creates a layered experience. Free guided tours on Wednesday mornings provide deeper insights into the house’s history and its notable former resident, enhancing visitor engagement.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Derby Ram Statue
0.8 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
17.4 km
Towering sandstone sentinel amid Nottinghamshire woods, blending ancient geology, whispered legends, and sweeping valley views for an effortless nature immersion.
Gazebo
18.7 km
A serene early 19th-century stone pavilion nestled in Wollaton Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil garden beauty.
Camellia House
18.7 km
Explore the historical beauty of Camellia House in Nottingham, a landmark showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.
Cathedral Hall
22.2 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
22.3 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
22.3 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
22.4 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
22.5 km
Discover the captivating history of Nottingham at the Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre, where legends come alive through engaging exhibits and rich narratives.
Mortimer’s hole
22.5 km
Explore Mortimer's Hole in Nottingham - a captivating historical landmark steeped in legend and medieval intrigue.
Scale Space Nottingham
22.5 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.
Robin Hood Statue
22.5 km
Explore Nottingham's rich heritage at the Robin Hood Statue, a captivating monument celebrating the legendary outlaw and his enduring legacy.
Museum of Nottingham Life
22.5 km
Discover Nottingham's rich history at the Museum of Nottingham Life, where captivating exhibits and engaging artifacts await every visitor.
Cryptology Escape Rooms Nottingham
22.5 km
Experience the thrill of adventure at Cryptology Escape Rooms Nottingham with unique puzzles and immersive storytelling.
The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk
22.5 km
Discover the chilling history of Nottingham on the Original Nottingham Ghost Walk, where haunted tales and eerie legends come to life in the shadowy streets.
Unmissable attractions to see
Reform Bill Heads (Friar Gate Heads)
0.0 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
0.1 km
An 18th-century haunted prison where history, paranormal mystery, and immersive theatre converge in England's ghost capital.
Derby Museum & Art Gallery
0.4 km
Free world-class art and antiquities in Derby's cultural heart, anchored by the world's largest Joseph Wright collection.
Cathedral Quarter Derby
0.5 km
Derby’s historic heart: cobbled lanes, Victorian arcades, independent boutiques, cafés and culture around the cathedral.
Derby Cathedral
0.6 km
Discover Derby’s historic cathedral blending Georgian elegance, rich heritage, and vibrant cultural life in the city centre.
Five Lamps Pub
0.6 km
A friendly and lively traditional pub on Duffield Road, offering a welcoming atmosphere and classic British drinks in Derby.
Derbion shopping centre
0.8 km
Derbion Shopping Centre: Over 200 shops, vibrant dining, and entertainment in the heart of Derby city centre.
Derbion
1.1 km
Derbion: Derby’s vibrant heart for shopping, dining, entertainment, and culture under one roof.
Darley Park
1.5 km
An 80-acre riverside park in Derby blending lush gardens, open fields, sports, and vibrant community events in a historic natural setting.
Alvaston Park
3.9 km
A scenic riverside park in Derby with inclusive playgrounds, BMX tracks, sports courts, and vibrant community events for all ages.
Kedleston Hall
5.2 km
Explore Kedleston Hall’s stunning 18th-century Neo-classical mansion, rich collections, and sweeping historic parkland near Derby.
The Apple Tree Gift Shop and Teahouse
7.6 km
A charming village teahouse and gift shop in Ockbrook, blending homemade treats with unique gifts in a cozy, rustic setting.
Belper River Gardens
11.8 km
A century-old riverside sanctuary where Victorian heritage meets natural tranquility along the Derwent.
East Midlands Aeropark
13.8 km
Explore historic aircraft and watch modern airliners take off at East Midlands Aeropark, a unique aviation museum and viewing spot near Castle Donington.
Calke Explore
13.9 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
The Dining Room
0.3 km
An intimate Derby restaurant serving exquisite, locally sourced British dishes with warm, attentive service in a cozy setting.
Emily's Steakhouse
0.4 km
Cozy British steakhouse in Derby offering expertly cooked steaks with classic sides and friendly service in a relaxed setting.
Carnero Lounge
0.7 km
A welcoming Derby lounge offering vibrant vegan and gluten-free dishes in a relaxed, dog-friendly setting with excellent coffee and friendly service.
Darleys Restaurant & Terrace
2.2 km
Contemporary British dining with scenic river views in a historic mill setting at Darley Abbey, Derby.
Clock Bistro
5.5 km
A cozy bistro in Spondon blending English, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dovecote Restaurant
7.9 km
Elegant countryside dining with seasonal British cuisine and serene views at Morley Hayes Golf Club near Ilkeston.
The Restaurant at Horsley
8.5 km
Elegant dining with scenic golf course views, serving British classics and steaks in a tranquil Derbyshire setting.
The Tasting Club Restaurant
10.3 km
An intimate tasting menu experience blending rustic charm and refined flavors in Ashbourne’s historic Buttermilk Coffee House.
The Boot Inn
10.3 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.
Amalfi White
11.6 km
Stylish modern European dining and elegant events venue with inclusive menus and a grand ballroom in Melbourne, Derbyshire.
La Rock Restaurant
13.3 km
Experience refined Modern European cuisine with impeccable service in the warm, elegant setting of La Rock Restaurant, Sandiacre’s fine dining jewel.
Craig Riley @ Donington Manor Hotel
13.5 km
Experience Michelin-level modern British cuisine in the historic charm of Donington Manor with Chef Craig Riley’s exceptional culinary artistry.
The Lighthouse Restaurant
16.9 km
An intimate fine dining gem in Derbyshire offering inventive seasonal British cuisine with impeccable service and a cozy countryside setting.
ZHUG
17.2 km
Savor vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with fresh, bold dishes and a lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s Bramcote Lane.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tubo Gift Shop
0.5 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
2.3 km
A welcoming local shopping centre in Allestree, Derby, blending independent stores with essential services in a relaxed community setting.
Typically Unique
9.8 km
Discover beautiful, realistic gifts and exceptional service at Typically Unique, a beloved shop in the historic village of Aston-on-Trent.
England Pellegrino
11.0 km
Discover unique, handcrafted gifts in Belper’s historic England Pellegrino, nestled within the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.
Something Different
14.9 km
Discover vintage treasures and unique collectibles in a charming Stapleford shop filled with antiques, records, and secondhand gems.
Kim's Handmade Gift Shop
14.9 km
Explore Kim's Handmade Gift Shop in Long Eaton for unique handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and creativity.
World Duty Free - East Midlands Airport
15.1 km
Shop premium beauty, fragrances, spirits, and more at East Midlands Airport’s World Duty Free with convenient Reserve & Collect service.
Millie Edith Emporium
16.3 km
Discover unique costumes and clothing with vintage charm at Millie Edith Emporium, Eastwood’s beloved boutique on Nottingham Road.
Shop
16.4 km
Discover Derby's unique shop filled with local crafts and artisanal treasures, a must-visit for every tourist.
Catherine’s Exclusive Fashion
17.2 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Catherine's Exclusive Fashion, Nottingham's premier boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Grocery Store & Florist
17.2 km
Explore Nottingham's local culture at this delightful grocery store and florist, perfect for unique gifts and fresh flowers.
Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories
17.3 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion, gifts, and jewelry at Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories in Nottingham, a stylish destination for every shopper.
Marks and Spencer
17.4 km
24-hour M&S haven at Wollaton BP: gourmet groceries, stylish clothes, and convenience essentials in Nottingham's suburban heart.
Stratus Wallets
17.8 km
Discover unique gifts and treasures at Stratus Wallets, Nottingham's charming gift shop for memorable souvenirs and accessories.
Aryaan Straps
18.0 km
Explore the vibrant world of fashion accessories at Aryaan Straps in Beeston, Nottingham, where style meets uniqueness in every piece.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mixing House
0.2 km
A lively Derby cocktail bar offering creative drinks, delicious tapas, and a vibrant social atmosphere on historic Friar Gate.
the Orange tree
0.2 km
A stylish and welcoming cocktail bar and events venue in Derby’s city centre, known for quality drinks and versatile social spaces.
The Distillery
0.3 km
Derby’s independent bar and restaurant with the largest spirit collection, innovative menus, and a lively atmosphere in the Cathedral Quarter.
The Last Post, Derby
0.3 km
A cozy micro pub in Derby offering a friendly vibe, excellent local ales, live music, and a quaint garden retreat.
The Flowerpot
0.5 km
Derby’s iconic real ale pub and live music venue blending traditional brews, vibrant gigs, and authentic Gurkha curries in a lively setting.
Blacksmiths Lounge
0.5 km
Lively cocktail bar and live music venue in Derby’s historic Sadler Gate, blending rustic charm with vibrant entertainment.
BlueNote
0.5 km
Derby’s late-night hotspot for live music and DJ-driven clubbing in the heart of the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Bunk
0.5 km
Lively Derby bar specializing in chicken wings and cocktails, perfect for casual evenings and vibrant nightlife.
Slug & Lettuce - Derby
0.6 km
Lively cocktail bar and casual dining venue in Derby city centre, perfect for drinks, socialising, and celebrations with stylish vibes and great deals.
The Hideout Derby
0.6 km
A vibrant Derby pub blending gaming fun, street food, and bottomless brunch in a lively, social atmosphere.
Silk Mill Derby
0.6 km
Historic Derby pub blending British culinary heritage with craft ales and a lively, welcoming atmosphere in the Cathedral Quarter.
Cosy Club
0.7 km
Historic elegance and modern dining converge in Cosy Club Derby’s vibrant Royal Buildings setting.
The White Horse
0.9 km
A lively Derby city-centre pub famed for live music, friendly vibes, and a solid selection of ales and ciders.
Exeter Arms
0.9 km
A cozy, traditional Derby pub offering hearty meals, excellent ales, and a warm, rustic atmosphere in the city center.
The Bell & Castle
1.0 km
A lively and welcoming Irish-style pub in Derby offering great drinks, casual dining, and a friendly community atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mosh
0.2 km
Three floors of diverse music and affordable drinks make Mosh a lively, student-friendly nightclub in Derby’s city center.
Together
0.5 km
Vibrant Afrobeat nightclub and cocktail bar in Derby’s city centre with affordable drinks and lively events.
Bar Fever Derby
0.5 km
Experience Derby’s vibrant nightlife at Fever Derby, a dynamic three-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and exclusive VIP areas.
MooMoo Nightclub Derby
0.6 km
Experience Derby’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, premium booths, and affordable drinks at MooMoo Nightclub on St James's Street.
The Attic Adult Club
3.5 km
An intimate adult nightclub in Derby offering lively entertainment, friendly staff, and affordable fun in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Regal Nightclub
15.1 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
15.1 km
Ripley's vibrant weekend nightclub offering late-night music, dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
Ciros Nightclub
19.7 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
CRISIS
22.5 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Rock City
22.5 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
Tunnel Club
22.5 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
Rescue Rooms
22.6 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
ICON
22.6 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Stealth
22.6 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
22.6 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
