Derby Parks COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Information

Thu 6 Jan 2022

Derby Racecourse changing rooms 

With consideration to the Omicron Covid-19 variant, we have felt it necessary to temporarily change how we operate at Derby Racecourse to help protect players, officials and staff at all of our sites across Derby.

As the new variant continues to increase, we have decided to close all of our changing rooms for a minimum of 2 weeks, from 6 Jan 2022 while we see how this develops locally; toilets however will remain available for use and face masks must be worn whilst inside the buildings.

We have not taken this decision lightly, therefore we are asking all Players and Officials to arrive at sites fully kitted out and ready to play.

Fri 6 Aug 

We are pleased to say that Markeaton Park paddling pool is open again! Thank you for your patience while we mended it. For details of opening hours, see our Markeaton Park web page for opening times. 

Tue 3 Aug 

Temporary closure of Marketon paddling pool

Unfortunately due to technical problems with the pumps we’ve had to close Markeaton Park Paddling Pool. Our maintenance team are working on it now and we hope to have the pool up and running again by the weekend.

We’re sorry to disappoint you if you were planning to visit, but please come and enjoy the other great attractions that Markeaton Park has to offer, like the Mundy Play Centre, mini golf, Superhero Trails, Love Exploring app trails and all the beautiful walks and gardens. 

Tue 13 July 

Markeaton Park Paddling Pool will reopen to the public from 10.30am on Fri 23 Jul.

Before opening, the pool itself will undergo some routine maintenance such as jet washing and cleaning and any repairs that are needed. All this ensures the pool is at its best when visitors return.

The paddling pool will be open daily from 10.30am – 4.00pm until Sun 5 Sep.

During opening hours, Park Rangers will be checking and monitoring the pool and water quality every hour to make sure the water stays safe. However, if high volumes of visitors begin to impact the quality of the water, temporary fencing may be used to limit the number of people using the pool until the water quality can be restored. Council colleagues will also be on hand each day to supervise the pool.

The grassed area around the paddling pool will also be available to use as well as other attractions in Markeaton Park.

The Splash Pad in Chaddesden Park will also reopen to visitors on Sat 24 Jul and will be open daily between 12noon and 5.00pm until Sun 5 Sep. Similarly, to the Paddling Pool, user numbers may need to be managed during busy periods, again to ensure safety and water quality.   

Tues 15 Jun 2021

The reopening of Derby City Council waterplay facilities at Markeaton Park and Chaddesden Park have been delayed following the announcement by the Government yesterday (14 June).

The facilities will not open to the public before England reaches stage four of the Government roadmap. Because Government restrictions limit outdoor gatherings to 30 people and social distancing measures remain in place, we cannot operate these facilities in a Covid-secure way.

We know that this decision will be disappointing to families but we must put the health and safety of visitors, first.

Fri 14 May 2021

From 17 May, you can socialise indoors in a group of up to 6 people or 2 households, including for overnight stays. Up to 30 people can meet outside. Pubs, theatres and other venues can open indoors. 

  • The paddling pool, bouncy castles,  car track, and canoes at Mundy Play Centre are currently closed. The play area in the Mundy Play Centre is free to access and is open daily.  Numbers are limited in line with the current government guidance. Pitch and Putt, Footgolf, and Disc Golf are open. 

Respect other people and protect the natural environment

Read signs and respect the measures that local authorities and site management have put in place to help ensure social distancing.

When in the countryside, follow the Countryside Code. You should:

  • take all of your litter home
  • keep dogs under effective control and on a lead when you are around farm animals - read further guidance for pet owners
  • No fires
  • leave gates as you find them and follow instructions on signs
  • keep to paths and follow signs where they suggest alternative routes
  • check if facilities are open to visitors (for example, car parks and toilets)

Read what the National restrictions mean at our COVID-19 news story.

Allestree Park Toliets

From Sat 29 May the toilets at Allestree park will be permanently closed. 

Tue 5 Jan 2021

Derby has 300 parks and open spaces, and there is much to discover at this time of year. We remind you to follow the new guidance and visit individually, only with members of your own household, or to meet with just one other person from outside your household if you are alone. Remember to follow social distancing at all times, and please help us to keep the parks attractive for everyone by taking your litter home with you.

Based on the National lockdown restrictions, the following is in place:

  • Parks cafes remain open at Markeaton Park, Darley Park and Alvaston Park as take away only. Please maintain 2 metre social distancing at all times.
  • Park toilet facilities are to remain open based on current winter operating hours, 7 days a week at Markeaton Park, Darley Park, Alvaston Park. Chaddesden Park toilets are open weekends only (note revised opening hours for Chaddesden Park - 9.30am – 3.30pm from 2 January until February half-term) 
  • Play areas across the city remain open. 
  • Outdoor wheeled sports should only take place on your own, with household members or with one other person.
  • Closed facilities include tennis courts, football courts, multi-use games areas, and outdoor gyms.
  • Fishing is allowed as exercise so long as participants adhere to the rules on staying local, gathering limits, social distancing and limiting the time spent outdoors. 
  • Allotments remain open. If you have an allotment, visits should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area. The National Allotment Society advice.
  • All outdoor group activities have been suspended, except for those exempt such as school physical education bookings.

We ask that when using parks facilities that you:

  • Please do not visit the park if anyone in your family has symptoms of the virus.

  • Follow guidance displayed on facilities as appropriate including numbers of individuals allowed within the play area

  • Continue to follow safe social distancing of at least two metres where possible. Encourage your child/household to do the same.

  • Some facilities may remain closed if there isn’t enough room for safe social distancing.

  • Wash your hands before leaving the house and when you get back home. At the park, take hand sanitiser and use regularly, especially before and after eating, and after touching shared surfaces such as gates, railings, play equipment etc.

  • Bring wipes to clean the areas of play/sports equipment that are most likely to be touched, such as the handles on seesaws, bars on climbing frames, gym equipment etc.

  • Discourage children from putting their hands in their mouths after playing, and from putting their mouths on the play equipment.

Derby City Council Coronavirus information and advice 

Find out how coronavirus is impacting Council services and facilities.

Previous updates

Wed 30 Dec

Derby has 300 parks and open spaces, and there is much to discover at this time of year. We remind you to follow the new guidance and visit individually, only with members of your own household, or to meet with just one other person from outside your household if you are alone. Remember to follow social distancing at all times, and please help us to keep the parks attractive for everyone by taking your litter home with you.

Based on the new Tier 4 restrictions the following is in place:

  • Parks cafes are to remain open as takeaway facilities including at Markeaton Park and Alvaston Park. 
  • Park toilet facilities are to remain open based on current winter operating hours, 7 days a week at Markeaton Park, Darley Park, Alvaston Park.  Chaddesden Park toilets are open weekends only (note revised opening hours for Chaddesden Park - 9.30am – 3.30pm from 2 January until February half-term)
  • Based on government guidelines facilities including play areas, outdoor courts, outdoor gyms, wheeled sports areas and golf courses can remain open. These are to be used for individual exercise, and for people to use with others within your household, support bubble, or with one person from another household.
  • In line with government guidance, approved organised outdoor sports can continue for those under 18s and disabled groups, this includes grassroots football.  All other activities have been suspended.

All community centres within the parks are closed, except for existing bookings that are exempt activities.

We ask that when using parks facilities that you:

  • Please do not visit the park if anyone in your family has symptoms of the virus.
  • Follow guidance displayed on facilities as appropriate including numbers of individuals allowed within the play area
  • Continue to follow safe social distancing of at least two metres where possible. Encourage your child/household to do the same.
  • Some facilities may remain closed if there isn’t enough room for safe social distancing.
  • Wash your hands before leaving the house and when you get back home. At the park, use hand sanitiser regularly, and especially before and after eating, and after touching shared surfaces such as gates, railings, climbing frames etc.
  • Bring wipes to clean the areas of play/sports equipment that are most likely to touch, such as the handles on seesaws, bars on climbing frames, gym equipment etc.
  • Discourage children from putting their hands in their mouths after playing, and from putting their mouths on the play equipment.

Fri 18 Dec 2020

The following facilities are now open on parks based on the government guidelines based around the Tier 3 system:

  • Wheeled sports areas (skate parks & BMX tracks)
  • Outdoor Gyms
  • Tennis Courts
  • Bowls
  • Golf
  • Grassroots Football 
  • Multi-use games areas
  • Play areas 
  • Toilets 

Cafe's continue to be take-away service, and opening times may vary, please see the parks food web page for information,

Remember, ‘Hands. Face. Space’:

  • hands – wash your hands regularly and for 20 seconds
  • face – wear a face-covering in indoor settings where social distancing may be difficult, and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet
  • space – stay 2 metres apart from people you do not live with where possible, or 1 metre with extra precautions in place (such as wearing face coverings)

You must not socialise in a group of more than 6 in outdoor public spaces, including parks, beaches, countryside accessible to the public, a public garden, grounds of a heritage site or castle, or a sports facility – this is called the ‘rule of 6’

Thu 5 Nov 2020 

Derby Parks and the following activities will remain open in line with government guidelines: 

  • Playgrounds - for more information visit the Government guidance for playgrounds 
  • Cafes, with a take-away service (weather permitting)
  • Park Toilets 

The following facilities are closed in line with government guidelines: 

  • Wheeled sports areas (skate parks and BMX tracks) 
  • Outdoor Gyms
  • Tennis Courts
  • Bowls
  • Grassroots Football
  • Golf
  • Multi-use games areas 

Community Centres 
All community centres are closed, except for existing bookings that are exempt activities.

Please follow government guidance on use of the above facilities, please visit visit Government advice on accessing green spaces safely for more information.

September updates

Tue 29 Sep 2020

Community Centre update 

Most of the community centres listed below are now open or in the process of re-opening for use by limited groups who are able to provide covid-19 risk assessments. Some bookings are not allowed to re-start, such as party bookings. Please contact the centres individually for details.

25 Sep 2020

Parks and heritage sites update

Our parks and key heritage sites are open to the public with the following restrictions:

  • Whether you are indoors or outdoors, you can only meet in groups of up to 6 people. This limit does not apply to meetings of a single household group or support bubble which has more than 6 people. Always try to keep 2 meters apart.
  • No team sports, unless you are playing with members of your own household group or as part of an authorised affiliated club.
  • Many of our play areas, outdoor gyms and multi-use games areas have now reopened. Visitors are asked to follow this guidance to make sure we can minimise the risks of the coronavirus spreading, and keep us all as safe as possible.
  • Our BMX Tracks and Skate Parks are now open. Please stick to the British Cycling and Skateboard England guidelines which you can read here.
  • The Steve Bloomer Artificial Turf Pitch at The Racecourse is open for use by FA affiliated clubs.
  • Park toilets are open daily at the following locations:

Allestree Park – 7.30pm to 3.30pm 
Alvaston Park – 10am to 4pm 
Arboretum – 7.30am to 3.30pm
Darley Park by the café – 10am to 4pm 
Markeaton Park Craft Village – 10am to 4pm
Chaddesden Park – 10am to 4pm (weekends only)

Opening times may alter depending on the weather.

To ensure staff and public safety, enhanced cleaning and other social distancing measures are in place. We are constantly reviewing these procedures.

Allestree Golf Course is open daily from 7.30am to 5pm until 1 Nov, the opening times will then change to 7.30am to 3.30pm from 2 Nov.

Pay and Play facilities are open at Markeaton Park, at the weekends only and during half term from 10.30am to 4pm (weather permitting)

  • Pitch & Putt
  • Mini-golf
  • Footgolf
  • Discgolf

Tennis courts at Markeaton Park and Darley Park are open during daylight hours and bookable on the ClubSpark – For Markeaton Park book here or for Darley Park book here

Parking charges apply at Markeaton Park. Prices can be found here. You can use your mobile device to pay by downloading the MiPermit app.

Catering:

  • A takeaway service is available at The Orangery Cafe at Markeaton Park and is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4pm, and weekends from 9.30am to 5pm until 1 Nov. Times will then change to Monday to Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm, weekends 9.30am to 4.00pm.
  • Markeaton Park Ice Cream and Pizza Kiosks near the Mundy Play Area are open at weekends from 10am to 5pm until 1 Nov, the kiosks will then close until February half term.
  • A takeaway service is available at the Waterside Cafe at Alvaston Park, and is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm, and weekends from 9am to 5pm until 1 Nov, times then change to Monday to Friday 10am to 3.30pm, weekends 9am to 4pm.
  • A takeaway service is available at the café at Chaddesden Park is open over the weekends from 10am to 5pm until 1 Nov, then after that weekends only 10am to 4pm.

We ask that you use the NHS App for Test and Trace and face coverings are worn while queuing at all our catering facilities.

Tue 4 Aug 2020 

Outdoor water play to stay closed this summer

Owing to safety concerns caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, Markeaton Park paddling pool, and the splash pad at Chaddesden Park, will stay closed for the summer season.

The Government recently announced that outdoor water parks and swimming pools can reopen, however a thorough review of Derby Parks’ water play facilities has revealed a number of constraints that make it impossible to operate them safely within current guidelines.

Duncan Cowie, Head of Parks and Active Living at Derby City Council, said: “We know there are many families who love to use these facilities over the summer holidays – these parks are go-to destinations during the summer months, and we are sorry that our water play facilities are unable to reopen in a safe way. The last thing we would want to do is to put the public and staff at risk.

“There are lots of other facilities that we’ve worked hard to reopen in Derby’s parks – all play areas and outdoor gyms are now open, and at Markeaton Park you can play Footgolf, Disc Golf, Pitch and Putt and Mini Golf.”
The layout of Markeaton Park paddling pool doesn’t allow the area to be closed off like a conventional swimming pool, making it difficult to regulate the number of people using the pool at any one time. On very hot days the pool is known to attract many hundreds of visitors, making safe social distancing within the current guidelines impossible. 

At Chaddesden Park splash pad, the existing fencing is not sufficient to control access into the water play area, again making safe social distancing impossible to achieve.

In addition, uncertainty about Government timescales for reopening, and a lack of available contractors during lockdown, has meant the usual cleaning and maintenance has not been possible this year. This has to take place before the water play facilities can reopen.

We apologise for not being able to provide water play this summer, but your safety is our priority. 

July updates

Wed 29 Jul Park Public Toilets

Toilets at the Markeaton Park Craft Village are open between 10am – 5pm and are being monitored throughout the day. To ensure staff and public safety, one male, one female and one disabled toilet will be available with appropriately distanced queues and enhanced cleaning in place. We are constantly reviewing these procedures.

Toilets are also open at:
Allestree Park 7:30am – 5pm
Alvaston Park 10am – 4pm 
Chaddesden Park 11am - 4pm
Darley Park 10am – 4pm

Enhanced cleaning operations and social distancing are key to their successful operation.

10 July

Markeaton Park – Mundy Play Centre – Mini Golf Reopening on 11 July 2020

The mini golf at Markeaton Park, Mundy Play Centre, is set to reopen on 11 July 2020. The facility will be open from 10:30am until 4pm daily until 6 September 2020. As part of its safe reopening, we have put in place measures to ensure good hygiene and social distancing. Further updates on other attractions reopening within Mundy Play Centre will be posted on these news pages in the coming weeks.  

Park Public Toilets
Toilets at the Markeaton Park Craft Village are open between 10am – 5pm and are being monitored throughout the day. To ensure staff and public safety, one male, one female and one disabled toilet will be available with appropriately distanced queues and enhanced cleaning in place. We are constantly reviewing these procedures.

Toilets at Allestree Park are set to reopen on Saturday 11 July 2020 (7:30am – 5pm) and Alvaston Park Sunday 12 July 2020 (10am – 4pm). Enhanced cleaning operations and social distancing are key to their successful reopening.

We are now working on the safe reopening of toilets at Chaddesden and Darley Park.

3 July 2020

From 4 July Derby Parks team we start the reopening of play areas and outdoor gyms

What you need to know
Since the Government said play areas and outdoor gyms could reopen from 4 July, the team at Derby Parks have been pulling out all the stops to make it happen.

The good news is we aim to have all these facilities up and running by the end of this weekend (4-5 July) It will take a while to reopen all 82 play areas and 11 outdoor gyms across the city’s parks and open spaces, so please bear with us.

Visitors are asked to follow this guidance to make sure we can minimise the risks of the coronavirus spreading, and keep us all as safe as possible:

Play areas:

  • Please do not visit the park if anyone in your family has symptoms of the virus.
  • Every play area will have signs showing how many children are allowed to play there at any one time. Please respect this.
  • Continue to follow safe social distancing of at least two metres where possible. Encourage your child to do the same.
  • Some facilities may remain closed if there isn’t enough room for safe social distancing.
  • Wash your hands before leaving the house and when you get back home. At the park, use hand sanitiser regularly, and especially before and after eating, and after touching shared surfaces such as gates, railings, climbing frames etc.
  • Bring wipes to clean the areas of play equipment that children are most likely to touch, such as the handles on see seesaws, bars on climbing frames, etc.
  • Discourage children from putting their hands in their mouths after playing, and from putting their mouths on the play equipment.
  • Avoid eating or drinking within play areas. If the bins are full, take your litter home with you

Outdoor gyms:

  • Avoid using the gym if you feel unwell.
  • Wash or sanitise your hands before and after using the gym.
  • Bring your cleaning products with you and wipe down the equipment before and after use.
  • Maintain social distancing of two metres where possible.

At Markeaton Park, Footgolf, Pitch and Putt and Disc Golf have now reopened and are open daily from 10.30am. The play areas will be reopening this weekend, but pay to play attractions such as mini golf, bouncy castles and electric cars remain closed at this time. The paddling pool remains closed in line with current Government guidance, and also because safe social distancing is not possible around the pool. The splash pad at Chaddesden Park also remains closed.

Currently limited toilet provision is available in the Craft Village at Markeaton Park and these are the only toilets available in parks across the city. Parking charges also apply at Markeaton Park. 

Visitors are reminded that current Government restrictions allow you to meet outdoors with people from outside your household, in a group of up to six.

June updates

Thu 25 Jun 2020

Park Public Toilets
Toilets at the Markeaton Park Craft Village are open between 10am – 4pm and are being monitored throughout the day. To ensure staff and public safety, one male, one female and one disabled toilets will be available with appropriately distanced queues and enhanced cleaning in place. We are constantly reviewing these procedures.

All other park toilet facilities are currently closed. Discussions on the safe re-opening of these facilities following latest government guidance .

Car Park Charges
Parking charges apply at Markeaton Park

You can use the mobile device to pay for parking, download the MiPermit app.

Play Areas
The Derby Parks Team are working hard to ensure play areas are safe and clean in readiness for re-opening in line with government guidance, we will update this page when these facilities are open. 

Catering 
A takeaway service is available at The Orangery Cafe at Markeaton and is open Mon to Fri 10am to 4pm, weekends 10am to 5pm. The Carte D’or Ice Cream Kiosk (in the Craft Village Courtyard) is also now open. The Kiosk near the Mundy Play area is currently closed. 

A takeaway service is available at the Waterside Café at Alvaston Park and is open Mon to Fri 10am to 4pm, weekends 9am to 5pm.

Thu 4 June Update for Allestree Park Golf Course.

Book online at Golf Now up to 7 days in advance.  Season ticket holders should call 01332 550616.

Unless from the same household, players will be required to remain at least two metres apart and measures will be put in place to help inform this. Players should arrive at the course no earlier than 15 minutes before their tee-off time and should use their own equipment. All tee-off times will be ten minutes apart and will be a maximum of three people, from Mon 8 June, whilst abiding by social distancing rules. Full details will be provided at the time of booking.

The clubhouse and the toilets remain closed.

Players are required to provide their own hand sanitiser.

All rounds of golf should be pre-booked and paid for in advance by calling the club directly. Tee times will be released seven days prior to playing the course, and will be split between season ticket holders/club members and Pay and Play customers.

Key messages:

  • Pre-arrival: Don’t arrive at the course any earlier than 15 minutes before your tee-off time
  • Car-Park: Wait in your car until 10 minutes before your tee-off time
  • On Arrival: Golf Safety guidelines (Sanitise hands, Keep 2m distance, Maximum 3 customers at a time from Mon 8 June.
  • Online booking or contactless/card payments only
  • Facilities: Remember that the clubhouse is closed; this includes changing rooms and toilet facilities.
  • Golf course Entrance: Wait here until 1st tee is clear
  • The practice area is closed, however, the putting green and the driving net is available to use. Please follow social distancing rules as per government guidelines

Changes to our golf operation:

  • All rounds of golf must be pre-booked and paid for in advance.
  • All tee times will be 10 minutes apart and will be a maximum of 3 players per tee time, From Monday 8th June, whilst abiding by social distancing rules.
  • Rakes will be removed from bunkers, hole cups will be turned upside down and all flags are to remain in the holes.
  • Social distancing measures (min. 2m between individuals not living in the same household) remain in place at our golf courses.
  • The number of customers to present themselves at the golf shop is limited to 3 people, from Mon 8 June. All MUST maintain social distancing guidelines.
  • Our clubhouses and toilets will remain closed until further notice.

Please observe the following recommendations:

  • Keeping your distance from your playing partners and other golfers.
  • Encourage gimmies within 1 putter length. We recommend the purchase of “green grippers” to retrieve your ball from the hole.
  • Treat bunkers as GUR (Ground under repair)
  • Only use and touch your own equipment.
  • Refrain from shaking your playing partner’s hand.
  • Online booking or contactless/card payments only.

Everyone at Allestree Park Golf Course is looking forward to welcoming you back on the course. Our staff will be on-hand to offer advice and guidance with regards to the changes to our operation; may I thank you in advance for your support and co-operation.

Enjoy your round - don't forget to pre-book by booking online at Golf Now up to 7 days in advance. 

Season ticket holders should call 01332 550616.

For the first week of opening we will be operating a pay and play system only.

Monthly tickets will be available from the 1st June 2020, priced at £50 for the calendar month. This will entitle you to unlimited golf, subject to availability and booking.

Keep safe and well.

The Golf Team.

Fri 5 June BMX Tracks and Skate Park information update

Our BMX Tracks and Skate parks are now open. Please stick to the British Cycling and Skateboard England guidelines during the COVID-19 crisis. Enjoy this facility and stay safe. 

  • Follow government guidance on riding/skating with others. Keep two metres apart at all times.
  • Keep well within your ability. Don’t try difficult skills or ride too fast.
  • Do not congregate with other people under any circumstances. Once you’ve finished your loop, or if you’re waiting – make sure you take a break away from the finish and start areas, to ensure social distancing and give others a chance.
  • Clean your equipment before & after.Try not to touch anything else.
  • No physical contact. No hugs, high-fives, hand shakes, etc. except with people in your own household.
  • Do not share. Mobile devices, equipment, food or drink.
  • Only use this outdoor facility if you are actively riding/skating. Leave as soon as possible after finishing.
  • Wash your hands regularly. Before leaving home and on returning home. Please bring hand sanitiser with you when visiting the facility.
  • Please leave plenty of space and be considerate of other users. Especially the younger or less experienced.
  • Spectating is discouraged. Where attendance of a parent/guardian(non-participant) or a carer for a rider with a disability is required, social distancing should be strictly observed while watching the activity.
  • If you are showing Coronavirus symptoms, or if you or any of your household are self-isolating, you should stay at home.

27 May 2020 update

In England, you can now:

  • spend time outdoors, including exercise, as long as you continue to adhere to strict social distancing guidelines with people from outside your household
  • take part in other outdoor sports and activities, including fishing, in groups of up to six people, or household groups, provided you adhere to strict social distancing guidelines
  • drive to outdoor open spaces, including beaches and beauty spots, irrespective of distance - you should travel in a private vehicle, alone or with members of your own household. You should avoid public transport other than for essential journeys.
  • visit gardens, nature reserves and parkland to spend time outdoors, although access may be limited to members or those with tickets to ensure social distancing and buildings and amenities such as cafes will remain closed. You should check ahead and follow social distancing guidelines.
  • go swimming in either lakes or the sea for exercise or recreation provided that social distancing guidelines are observed - you cannot use public indoor and outdoor swimming pools
  • take part in all forms of water sports practised on open waterways, including sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing, kayaking, surfing, paddle-boarding and the use of privately-owned motorised craft (in line with the guidance issued by the relevant navigation authority)
  • you can continue to use towpaths for walking, running and cycling, being mindful of other users and people living in boats along the water

There are no restrictions on how far you can travel to get to the countryside. However you can not stay overnight. Campsites and caravan parks are closed and you cannot stay in a holiday or second home.

To stay safe, you must:

  • take hygiene precautions when you are outside
  • wash your hands as soon as you are back indoors
  • keep at least two metres apart from anyone outside your household at all times
  • take hand sanitiser with you when you set off in case there are no handwashing facilities

Respect other people and protect the natural environment

Remember your actions can affect people’s lives and livelihoods. Take the time to read signage. Respect the measures that local authorities and site management have put in place to help ensure social distancing.

Before travelling, you should check if facilities, such as car parks, are open to visitors. Do not park on verges or block gates. This restricts access for other vehicles.

When in the countryside, follow the Countryside Code. You can do this by:

  • leaving no trace of your visit and taking all of your litter home
  • not using barbecues as they risk causing wildfires
  • keeping dogs under effective control and on a lead when you are around farm animals - read further guidance for pet owners
  • leaving gates as you find them and following instructions on signs
  • keeping to footpaths and following signs where they suggest alternative routes

Wildlife may have moved into areas where it hasn’t previously been found, including nesting birds. Land managers may have taken action to provide extra protection of wildlife. Be vigilant and comply with these protective measures to ensure you do not disrupt the local wildlife.

22 May Plan ahead to enjoy Derby’s parks

With fine weather forecast for the bank holiday weekend, the team at Derby Parks are urging people to plan ahead if they’re planning to visit the city’s parks or open spaces this weekend.

While Government guidelines have been relaxed to allow park users to spend more time outdoors, including enjoying a picnic or sunbathing, some park facilities remain closed to keep visitors and staff safe.

This includes outdoor gyms and children’s play areas, Markeaton Park Paddling Pool and Chaddesden Park Water Play. These will stay closed until Government guidance changes, and we can ensure that children can use them safely. Before it can re-open, the paddling pool will have to undergo the usual cleaning, maintenance and water quality testing which happens every year.

Visitors are asked to use the car parks, which are open. Park toilets remain closed.

Councillor Robin Wood, Derby City Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, said: “Our parks and open spaces are wonderful and relaxing places to visit, but I would urge visitors to bear in mind that not all of our park facilities are able to re-open and to plan for this. Please remember to practise social distancing at all times.”

Visitors are also able to meet up with one person from outside their home, as long as they stay at least two metres away from them. For more information about the latest guidance go to inderby.org.uk/parks.

Please help us keep our parks tidy by taking all your litter home with you. Thank you for your understanding and co-operation. By using our parks and open spaces with consideration we can enjoy the full benefits of being outdoors.

Wed 20 May Open Water Swimming

Open water swimming on any lakes and water courses on Derby’s parks and green spaces is not allowed.

Please stay safe! 

Wed 13 May New guidelines for enjoying parks

Following the Government’s change in guidance, visitors will be able to make more use of Derby’s parks and open spaces from Wednesday 13 May. The Derby Parks team are asking all park users to be considerate and continue to use social distancing to keep themselves and each other safe.

You can now spend time outdoors, for example sitting and enjoying the fresh air, picnicking or sunbathing, as well as using the parks for exercise as much as you wish. What else is new is that you can meet one other person from a different household in one of our parks or open spaces, as long as you keep at least two metres away from them.

To accommodate the new guidance, we are making the following changes from tomorrow:

  • Our outdoor sports courts and facilities such as tennis courts, multi-use games areas (for playing games such as basketball) and sports walls will be open. Please use them with members of your own household, or with one other person while staying two metres apart. More information about our tennis courts is in our advice about specific facilities below.
  • We are re-opening our car parks that were closed during lockdown, including Alvaston Park, Allestree Park, King George V Playing Fields, Markeaton Park, Osmaston Park, Pit Close Recreation Ground and Sinfin Moor Park LNR. All others remain open.
  • All angling on Derby’s parks is managed by the Earl of Harrington’s Fishing Club, who have put guidelines in place for it to resume.  The guidelines include the requirement for anglers, as is the case with all park users, to practise social distancing. www.theearlofharringtonsac.co.uk.

However the following restrictions will continue to apply until further notice to ensure that we all follow the measures needed to keep ourselves and each other safe:

  • No team sports, unless you are only playing with members of your own household. The Steve Bloomer Artificial Turf Pitch at The Racecourse remains closed.
  • Park toilets will remain closed.
  • Play areas and outdoor gyms will remain closed.
  • Skate parks and BMX tracks will remain closed.
  • Cafes, kiosks and ice cream vans are not currently serving refreshments but this is being reviewed in line with Government advice.

Please help us keep our parks tidy by taking all your litter home with you. Thank you for your understanding and co-operation. By using our parks and open spaces with consideration we can enjoy the full benefits of being outdoors.

Allestree Park Golf Course

Allestree Park Golf Course will re-open to players from Monday 25 May. While the course has been closed members of the golf maintenance team have been working in more critical roles for Derby City Council. Work can now start on getting the course ready for play again.

We will be taking bookings seven days in advance for bookings from 8am on Monday 18 May. Book online at Golf Now up to 7 days in advance.  Season ticket holders should call 01332 550616.

Unless they are from the same household, players will be required to remain at least two metres apart and measures will be put in place to help them do this. Players should arrive at the course no earlier than 15 minutes before their tee-off time and should use their own equipment. All tee-off times will be ten minutes apart and will be a maximum of two people. Full details will be provided at the time of booking.

The clubhouse and the toilets remain closed. Players are required to provide their own hand sanitiser.

All rounds of golf should be pre-booked and paid for in advance by calling the club directly. Tee times will be released seven days prior to playing the course, and will be split between season ticket holders/club members and Pay and Play customers.

Tennis courts

The Tennis courts are now open to book at Darley Park and Markeaton Parks.

This needs to be done through the clubspark system and the instructions are on the boards around the tennis courts. Charges apply.

You may play tennis with a member of your household or one other person from a different household.

Players must not share equipment, or have any physical contact throughout. Social distancing rules need to be followed at all times.

When your game is over you need to leave the courts immediately and make the courts available to the next people who have booked.

Tennis courts are free to use at Alvaston Park and King George V Playing Fields. No booking is required.

Government Guidelines are being followed and changes may occur as we follow advice.

Earlier updates

Sun 12 Apr 

Working with the Derbyshire Police and following a number of reports of people gathering at Osmaston Park and Sinfin Moor Park Local Nature Reserve, both the car parks to these two sites have now been closed.  The Parks remain open but please follow #SocialDistancing guidelines.

Thu 9 Apr

We have now been advised by Derbyshire Constabulary to close Allestree Park Woodlands Road car park due to reports of gatherings and taking advantage of the closed golf course. The park is still open but please follow #SocialDistancing guidelines.

The benches are taped off at Alvaston Park as well based on police advice.

Sat 4 Apr

‪We have now been advised by Derbyshire Constabulary to close off Markeaton Park car parks due to the high volume of cars witnessed today.‬

‪Markeaton Park is still open to serve the local community but please follow #SocialDistancing guidelines.

While the car parks are closed at Markeaton Park there is still disabled parking available off Markeaton Lane at the entrance on the corner by the Farm and Garden Centre. Anyone parking there will need to display their blue badge.

Wed 1 Apr

Derbyshire Police have advised Derby City Council to close the car parks at Pit Close Recreation Ground, Chellaston. The car park will be closed from 3pm today. 

Sat 28 Mar 2020

All still water lakes are closed to anglers so that includes the lakes at Allestree Park, Alvaston Park, Markeaton Park, Heatherton Pond and Mill Dam.  For further details, visithttp://www.theearlofharringtonsac.co.uk/

Wed 25 Mar 2020

Derbyshire Police have advised Derby City Council to close the car parks at Allestree Park, Alvaston Park and King George V Playing Fields (Littleover/Blagreaves). At this point in time, other car parks on Derby City Parks remain open but this will be continuously reviewed. Other closures may follow, please keep up to date by following (social media links).

Please use local parks for your daily dose of the outdoors and follow social distancing guidelines.  

Stay safe.

Tue 24 Mar 2020

Following the Governments recent advice, our playgrounds, sports courts and outdoor gyms are closed.

If you do choose to use a park, we ask that you follow the guidance given as follows:

  • Do not go to any crowed space.
  • Keep a safe distance of 2 meters apart and do not meet in groups, there should be no public gatherings of more than two people.
  • Follow guidance provided by NHS for Coronavirus and best practice for self-care techniques.

We also ask that you help us maintain our parks by taking litter home. 

Please stay at home

  • Only go outside for food, health reasons or essential work
  • Stay 2 metres (6ft) away from other people
  • Wash your hands as soon as you get home

Anyone can spread the virus.

Full guidance on staying at home and away from others

You can contact us by email at parksadmin@derby.gov.uk

Fri 20 Mar 2020

  • The cafe in Derby Arboretum Park will be closed from today. 
  • The Derby Walking festival, scheduled to be from Saturday 9 May to Sunday 17 May, is to be postponed. The date for the rearranged festival is yet to be confirmed and will be dependent on the situation over the next 12 weeks. We are anticipating that this will be in September however this will be determined by the above. Thank you to all the partners who have supported the Walking Festival. As and when we have any further updates, we will update this web page. 

Thu 19 Mar 2020

All the community centres leased from parks are closing down their general community use. Those with Early Years provision in them are still waiting for clarification from the DCC Early Years team as to whether they will be needed to remain open to provide childcare for essential workers.

Wed 18 Mar 2020

This is a difficult time for us all, but the welfare of our visitors and staff must always come first. Parks and Open Spaces are to remain open at this point in time because, as we all know, they are a valuable resource for people to gain exercise and benefits of being outside.

The cafés, public toilets, Park Managed buildings and ‘paid for activities’ at Mundy Play Centre, Markeaton Park are to close in response to the government’s latest advice concerning the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic from and including Thursday 19 March 2020, for at least 30 days.

This means that The Orangery at Markeaton Park, Waterside Café at Alvaston Park, Chaddesden Community Café, Markeaton Park Kiosk, mini golf, bouncy castles, children's cars, canoes, pitch and putt, disc golf, and footgolf will be closed from and including Thursday 19 March 2020, for at least 30 days. 

Darley Park Tea Rooms and Normanton Park Café are privately operated, and we will provide you with updates as we receive them.

We advise all customers to follow guidance provided by NHS for Coronavirus and best practice for self-care techniques.

Please keep checking our news page where we will be providing further information. We will also be updating information on our social media platforms.  If you require to contact us please email parks@derby.gov.uk or through the City Council’s website https://www.derby.gov.uk/report-it/ system

Please help us maintain parks at this difficult time and take your litter home. We would like to thank you all for your continued support,

Wishing you all the very best. Take care and stay safe!

Derby Parks Team

Updates on social media