Discover independent shops, creative workshops and handmade treasures in the heart of Markeaton Park.
Hidden within the historic former stable yard of Markeaton Park, the Craft Village is a charming collection of independent shops, artisan studios and creative spaces. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic buildings, it's a lovely place to explore during a family day out or a relaxing afternoon in the park.
Whether you're looking for a unique gift, fancy trying something creative or simply want to enjoy a coffee in picturesque surroundings, there's plenty to discover.
Get creative at the Craft Village
One of the village's most popular attractions is Paint a Pot, where visitors of all ages can choose from a wide selection of pottery, including mugs, plates, ornaments and decorative figures. Pick your favourite piece, get creative with colours and designs, and leave your finished creation to be glazed and fired, ready to collect later.
For more hands-on fun, Peacock Craft Barn, formerly Jumping Clay Derby, offers a colourful range of arts and crafts activities for children and families. From modelling with air-drying clay to seasonal craft workshops and teddy-stuffing parties, it's a great place for little ones to unleash their imagination. Sessions are available during weekends and school holidays, with advance booking recommended for some activities.
If you're interested in developing your artistic talents, Art in the Park runs painting and drawing classes for adults and children. With friendly tuition for beginners and more experienced artists, workshops cover techniques including watercolours, acrylics, pastels and sketching. It's an ideal opportunity to learn a new skill in an inspiring setting.
Browse independent shops and handmade gifts
There's more to the Craft Village than creative workshops, with several independent businesses offering unusual gifts and specialist products.
Studio Gift Shop Markeaton is a lovely place to browse for gifts, homewares and greeting cards. Its selection includes hand-poured vegan wax melts, crystals, handmade fudge and natural dog treats. The shop is also an authorised Annie Sloan Chalk Paint stockist.
Families can explore Markeaton Toy Store, which specialises in traditional, fair-trade and educational toys. From cuddly companions and puppets to games and outdoor toys, there's plenty to keep younger visitors entertained.
For something truly special, Susan Hill Jewellery creates beautifully handcrafted jewellery in sterling silver and gold. Alongside bespoke commissions and handmade gifts, the studio offers jewellery-making and silversmithing workshops, giving visitors the opportunity to create something unique themselves.
The village also has a tradition of skilled craftsmanship, with Lilac Joinery specialising in bespoke woodwork, including garden furniture, wooden gates and other made-to-measure pieces.
Enjoy a break at the Orangery Café
After exploring the shops and studios, head to The Orangery Café, set within a beautiful Grade II listed building overlooking Markeaton Park's formal gardens.
With indoor and outdoor seating, it's a welcoming spot to enjoy a coffee, light lunch or slice of cake while taking in the surroundings.
The café is also dog-friendly, making it a handy stop during a walk around the park.
Make a day of it at Markeaton Park
The Craft Village is ideally located for combining a little shopping and creativity with the many other attractions at Markeaton Park.
Nearby, you'll find the Mundy Play Centre, beautiful formal gardens, lakeside walks and plenty of green space to explore.
The village itself is free to enter, although individual workshops, activities and purchases are charged separately.
Planning your visit: Markeaton Park Craft Village is located in the centre of Markeaton Park, Derby, DE22 3BG. It can be reached on foot from the park's main entrances, including the Mundy Play Centre and the formal gardens.
Individual shops and studios have their own opening hours and booking arrangements, so it's worth checking directly before visiting.