You can request a guided tour or an introductory talk on the following subjects -
Joseph Wright of Derby
The Museum has an internationally renowned collection of paintings and drawings by Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Wright was one of the most progressive artists of the later 18th century, and he lived and worked in Derby. A whole gallery in the Museum and Art Gallery is devoted to Wright's work. A visit with David Parry will enhance your group's knowledge and enjoyment of these wonderful works of art.
Led by David Parry
David Parry is a teacher who, since taking early retirement, has worked as an English Tourist Board Blue Badge Guide, leading themed walks in Derby, and guiding coach tours in the county.
The Alchymist by Joseph Wright
Derby Porcelain
The other world-famous collection at Derby Museum and Art Gallery is the Derby Porcelain. This collection covers the entire history of Derby porcelain, but specialises in the beautiful products of the 18th and early 19th centuries. Colin Clayton's commentary will give your group additional pleasure and insight into this superb collection.
Led by Colin Clayton
Colin Clayton is a teacher whose interests include Derby porcelain, clocks and watches, and the historical development of Derby's industries.
Derby Bough Pot
Pickford's House Museum
Pickford's House is a Grade I listed town house which is now open to the public as a museum of Georgian life, and as a costume museum. The house has numerous furnished rooms, showing how people lived in Georgian times. Besides the changing displays of costume, there is a magical display of toy theatres. David Parry can give your group an enjoyable guided tour or introductory talk.
Led by David Parry
Victorian toy theatre
Highlights of the Museum
Visit both the Joseph Wright Gallery and the Porcelain Gallery when you come to the Museum & Art Gallery. This double tour can be incorporated into a standard length visite, and the standard charge applies.
Royal Crown Derby tour
Combine a visit to the Derby Porcelain Gallery with a visit to Royal Crown Derby, where you can enjoy a factory tour and see their collection of historic porcelain too.
Royal Crown Derby offer their own guided tours, and you must arrange your visit to them separately. Telephone Elizabeth Parr, Tours Organiser, on 01332 712841. Royal Crown Derby will charge a fee in addition to our standard charge for the tour of the Museum and Art Gallery.
Joseph Wright's Derby tour
Extend your visit to the Joseph Wright Gallery with a walking tour of Wright's Derby. David Parry can show you historic buildings and sites in the city centre associated with Wright.
Led by David Parry
There might be an additional charge for this, depending on the length of your visit.
Georgian Derby tour
Combine your visit to Pickford's House with a walking tour of Georgian Derby. This includes the exterior of St Helen's House, a grand town house built by Joseph Pickford.
Led by David Parry
There might be an additional charge for this, depending on the length of your visit.
St Helen's House
We can arrange other tours by request. Colin and David are very flexible, and will tailor their services to suit you.
How much does it cost?
Admission to the museums is free.
Groups are charged £1 per head for a guided tour, and there is a minimum charge of £50. Evening visits can be arranged for an additional charge of £70.
How can I book?
Booking is essential. Please telephone Anneke Bambery on 01332 716651. She will make the booking and arrange for your guide to liaise with you.
Is there a maximum group size?
No. The guide will split large parties into smaller groups, and spend time with each group in turn.
How long is the visit?
Your guide will spend up to 90 minutes with you, according to your requirements. Most groups like to have a little time to themselves to browse independently, and to visit our Museum sales points. If you come during the day, you can spend as much time as you like, within opening hours. If you come in the evening, your visit will last a maximum of 90 minutes. Due to security costs, we can only open up the particular area of the building which you have come to see. The Museum and Art Gallery shop is not open during evening tours.
Is there access for disabled people?
The Museum & Art Gallery is fully accessible to disabled people.
Pickford's House is an historic building, and adaptations have been made to give wheelchair access to the ground floor and basement. Unfortunately there is no wheelcahir access to the first or second floors, and no toilet for disabled people. A video showing the interior of Pickford's House can be viewed on request. An audio tape guide to Pickford's House is available on request.
Where can we park?
If you come to the Museum & Art Gallery by car you can use the Parksafe multistorey car park in Bold Lane. Pickford's House has its own car park at the rear of the house, off Agard Street.
Coaches can park at the Bus Station, the Morledge, Derby after dropping groups at the museums. Telephone 01332 255572 for details.
Opening Times
Monday 11.00am - 5.00pm
Tuesday 10.00am - 5.00pm
Wednesday 10.00am - 5.00pm
Thursday 10.00am - 5.00pm
Friday 10.00am - 5.00pm
Saturday 10.00am - 5.00pm
Sunday 1.00pm - 4.00pm
Bank Holidays 1.00pm - 4.00pm
For further details, bookings and enquiries please telephone 01332 716651.