Things To Do
in Ilkeston
Ilkeston is a market town located in Derbyshire, United Kingdom. It has a rich history dating back to Roman times and has several historic buildings and landmarks. The town has a vibrant community with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Nature lovers can enjoy nearby parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the beautiful Victoria Park. Enjoy the serene lakes and well-kept gardens.
Head over to the nearby Ilkeston Market for lunch. Experience local vendors and grab some unique souvenirs.
Enjoy dinner at a cozy pub in town. Wrap up your day relaxing in the park while watching the sunset.
Visit the Ilkeston Museum for a glimpse into the local history. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase the town's heritage.
Take a walk to St. Mary’s Church and admire its stunning architecture. Spend some time appreciating the peaceful atmosphere.
Dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional British cuisine. Afterward, enjoy a short walk along the canal to soak in the night views.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and heritage with many historical landmarks.
- Affordable housing compared to nearby cities.
- Good access to natural parks and recreational areas.
- Strong sense of community and local events.
- Proximity to larger cities like Derby and Nottingham for additional amenities.
- Limited job opportunities within Ilkeston itself.
- Public transport options may be less frequent.
- Some areas may have higher crime rates compared to other regions.
- Limited shopping and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Potentially less vibrant nightlife compared to urban centers.
Best Activities in Ilkeston
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a peaceful walk or cycle along the scenic Erewash Canal, a 11-mile long waterway that runs through Ilkeston. The canal offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and birdwatching.
Explore Shipley Country Park, a beautiful outdoor space offering walking trails, cycling routes, and picnic areas. Visitors can also enjoy the adventure playground and visit the Visitor Centre.
Take a stroll around Straw's Bridge, a picturesque nature reserve with a lake, woodland areas, and diverse birdlife. It's a great spot for wildlife photography and relaxing outdoor walks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ilkeston with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ilkeston
Visit one of these nice places.
The Erewash Canal offers picturesque water views and scenic spots perfect for photography in Ilkeston.
Kirk Hallam Lake provides serene water views and beautiful natural surroundings, ideal for capturing stunning photos in Ilkeston.
The historic Bennerley Viaduct presents a magnificent architectural structure and panoramic views that make for great photo opportunities in Ilkeston.
Food in Ilkeston
Ilkeston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic local dessert made with rich toffee sauce and moist sponge, often served with custard or ice cream. A must-try for those with a sweet tooth. Available at the Old Wine Vaults.
Must-Try!
These savory oat-based pancakes are a regional specialty and can be enjoyed with various fillings such as cheese, bacon, or mushrooms. Recommended at The Oatcake Shop.
Originating from nearby Bakewell, this almond-flavored tart filled with raspberry jam and frangipane is a beloved local treat. Best sampled at The Erewash Museum cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ilkeston better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held monthly, this vibrant market offers a fantastic array of local produce, street food, and artisanal goods. It's an ideal place to sample regional delicacies and enjoy live music and entertainment.
For a quick and satisfying bite, visit the popular burger van known for its tasty handmade burgers and hot dogs, making it a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ilkeston, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others when having conversations or interacting in public spaces.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Ilkeston. It is customary to greet people with a smile and use polite language, such as 'please' and 'thank you' in daily interactions.
It is important to show respect for local customs and traditions in Ilkeston. This includes being mindful of cultural celebrations, dining etiquette, and local traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ilkeston with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ilkeston
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ilkeston, United Kingdom, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in restaurants, bars, and for other services. A 10-15% tip is customary in these establishments if the service is good.
Payment in Ilkeston, United Kingdom is widely accepted in cash, credit/debit cards, and contactless payment methods. It is common for businesses to accept a variety of payment options, making it convenient for residents and visitors to make transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ilkeston.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and longer daylight hours make spring a delightful time to visit Ilkeston.
Mild and pleasant weather with plenty of outdoor events and activities. This is the best time to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Beautiful fall foliage and comfortable weather for exploring the countryside and parks.
Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall create a picturesque winter scene, with opportunities for cozy indoor activities.
Ilkeston at Night
Hiking in Ilkeston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast area of natural beauty with various trails, scenic lakes, and woodlands suitable for hiking and walking.
A lovely park featuring diverse landscapes, paths for hiking, and picnic areas, offering a peaceful environment.
A long-distance walking trail that runs along the River Erewash, providing varied terrain and beautiful views.
A popular walking and cycling route that follows the route of a former railway, offering a flat and easy hiking experience.
A stunning site for hiking with routes around the reservoir, offering picturesque views and a chance to spot wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ilkeston through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ilkeston by plane.
The nearest major international airport to Ilkeston, located approximately 13 miles away, serving a range of domestic and international flights.
Located about 40 miles from Ilkeston, this is one of the busiest airports in the UK, offering extensive international connections.
Approximately 50 miles from Ilkeston, Manchester Airport is one of the largest airports in the UK, providing numerous international flights.
Located around 80 miles from Ilkeston, Luton Airport serves many low-cost carriers and international flights.
Situated about 90 miles from Ilkeston, Stansted is a major hub for low-cost airlines with various international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Ilkeston, representing a significant proportion of the population.
Includes other European backgrounds and non-British white populations.
Includes groups such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and other Asian backgrounds.
A collective term for ethnic groups that are not classified as White British, including Black and Mixed Heritage.
Individuals from mixed heritage backgrounds, combining two or more ethnicities.
Includes small populations from various ethnic backgrounds not specified above.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Ilkeston, with local clubs and community leagues actively participating in the sport.
Rugby has a significant following in Ilkeston, with clubs providing opportunities for both junior and senior players to engage in the sport.
Cricket is played widely in Ilkeston, with several local teams competing in regional leagues during the summer months.
Athletics is popular among the youth in Ilkeston, with local clubs encouraging participation in track and field events.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity in Ilkeston, with many routes and events organized for enthusiasts.
Netball has a strong presence in local schools and clubs, promoting teamwork and skill development among players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ilkeston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Ilkeston offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, from plant-based burgers to flavorful curries. Look for symbols or ask the staff for recommendations.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options at various cafes and restaurants, including gluten-free cakes, pastries, and main course dishes.