How to locate fun things to do and great Derby sociables

For those Living or working in Derby and the surrounding areas there are plenty of places to visit and entertaining things to get up to in your spare time, but they aren’t always that easy to locate.

So what if you could find out about some brilliant local events, where you can meet up with a great group of fun, friendly locals who are also out to meet people and have a good time. Whatever kind of sociable meet ups you are interested in there is plenty out there in the area for you to choose from.

Daytime Derby sociables

If you are looking for something to get up to in the daytime then perhaps an afternoon tea sociable might be right up your street, meeting new friends whilst enjoying a delicious bite to eat in lovely surroundings. Or perhaps you might fancy a “ladies that lunch” themed sociable event, good food and good conversation are a great way to spend your time and maybe just your cup of tea!

For the more active Derby sociables

How about an event where you and your furry bestie can get to meet up with other new friends and their pups, meeting up with others for dog walking could be a fab way to meet new people and get out of the usual routine, whilst getting out there for some fresh air, fun and exercise.

For the more energetic folk how about something a bit more sporty, meet up with a group of people to get together and play a game of two of badminton or maybe a lively squash match. A great way to make new buddies whilst being active and having fun and hopefully have a few laughs along the way.

Relaxing, fun, Derby sociables

What about meeting a group of friendly, cool like-minded people whilst enjoying a local beer festival, cheers all around. Or maybe a lively evening whilst enjoying a good meal out, great food, good company who could ask for more.

Maybe you feel up to more of a mental challenge. How about meeting up with a great, fun crowd and join in with a sociable pub quiz for a lively evening out whilst exercising your brain cells and making new acquaintances.

Easy way to locate Derby sociables

If any of these ideas tickles your fancy and sounds interesting to you why not pop over to www.mixingout.com where you can find out how to locate a great Derby sociable event and get yourself out there.

Before you know it you will be having a great time making friends and having fun all with a group of friendly, cool, like-minded people who all just want to get out and about and have a great time just like you.

Whatever your age or tastes there are many things to do in Leeds with friends, so don’t stay at home – get out there, meet new friends and socialise.

Eating out with friends in Leeds city centre

Leeds is well known for its range of restaurants, catering for all budgets. For a fun night out with friends why not try the Roxy Ballroom where visitors can enjoy ping pong, pool and even a nine hole golf course on the top floor, as well as eating pizza and drinking craft beers or cocktails. Bowling is available from just £6 per person off peak and keen sports fans can hire a booth to watch live events. The Roxy provides a great start to the weekend.

Movie houses and comedy clubs

Prefer cultural things to do in Leeds? Film lovers are catered for by the local Everyman Cinema, part of a nationwide network of boutique movie houses. The cinema is located in Albion Street and is easily accessible by metro. A visit to the Everyman with friends is a great experience.

Close to the cinema you’ll find the well-known Jongleurs Comedy Club, for another great night out with friends. The two hour long show features four top class acts, priced at just £16.50 for a ticket. You’re sure to have fun at the ultimate party venue in Leeds.

Beer festival

Leeds Beer Festival is held every year in early September. A four day event, the festival offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy local brews, sample street food stalls and to listen to live music on two stages, with a great atmosphere.

Modern Art museum

Art lovers will enjoy the Tetley, previously the headquarters of the Tetley brewing company and since 2013 used as a contemporary art space. The Art Deco style building features high ceilings and light spaces, where local artists can exhibit their work. Whilst viewing the art on display visitors can take the opportunity to stop for a traditional cream tea.

Enjoying the great outdoors with friends

Looking for outdoor things to do in Leeds? Nearby Ilkley Lido is a unique place to visit with friends from May to September. The Lido features both indoor and outdoor pools, so you can visit whatever the weather. Why not take a picnic and enjoy the great outdoors? As well as swimming there are opportunities for putting and playing tennis, surrounded by views of Ilkley Moor.

Finally why not get out of doors with friends and enjoy exploring the delights of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, either on foot or by bike? The towpath is a great way to get some exercise and escape from the city, whilst watching wildlife. The canal is well maintained and provides an opportunity to get into the fresh air and enjoy the heritage of the waterways.

There are so many great reasons to get out and about to events in Derby and the surrounding area over the course of 2017. Whatever your tastes there is something for you. Check out the diary, and look forward to some exciting events in Derby.

Music and Comedy

Perhaps you want a good laugh, something to stimulate your funny bone? Acts coming to Derby Theatre in 2017 include: Ross Noble, Stewart Lee, Jasper Carrot and Tim Brooke-Taylor.

If that’s not enough, Derby has its own inaugural comedy festival coming up in May, with comedy legend Lee Hurst, the no nonsense comedian: one man and a mic, kicking it all off from the 5th at Derby Guildhall Theatre.

Then there is music. For one of the best annual festivals of music, not only in Derbyshire but nationally, you have to check out Bearded Theory’s Spring Gathering 2017. The headliners will be perennial favourites Madness, who will round out the celebrations at this tenth anniversary celebration. Thursday, May 25, to Sunday, May 28, 2017, at Catton Hall.

If a film is your idea of a good night out then don’t forget that the QUAD Summer Nights Outdoor Film Festival will return in 2017, bringing the best in contemporary and classic films in various beautiful heritage locations such as Kedleston Hall and Hardwich Hall.

Toast of the Year

If sampling the latest in boutique beer and real ale is your thing then be sure to check out the coming festivities. If you need to warm up in February then, from 15th – 18th, there is the Derby CAMRA Winter Ale Festival in the beautiful and historic surroundings of Derby Roundhouse, showcasing the best from the large variety of Derby micro-breweries. And then there is the summer Beer Festival from 5 – 9 July 2017, where there will be an impressive range of over 200 draught drinks: all the varieties you can think of, and them some. Enjoy the atmosphere and the live music too.

Refined Pursuits

There are other events in Derby if a more cerebral and laid back night out is called for don’t forget to book up for an audience with the supremely popular TV scientist Professor Brian Cox, in which the world’s foremost scientific communicator will take you on a trip through space and time.

And for the cultured theatre goers amongst us Derby Theatre has a fulsome year of engaging productions to stimulate and entice. From well know favourites such as Educating Rita in February and Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey in April to more challenging offerings such as Betrayal by Lekan Lawal in March.

This list just gives a flavour of what events in Derby to expect in 2017, which is shaping up to be a really packed year for those of us who want to get out and about and have a fun time in our wonderful and exciting city.

Trip Out

Despite Derby and the surrounding areas being a very cosy place with beautiful nature and long stretching hills, sometimes it is a good idea to change the scene a little bit. So why not organise a trip out to Alton Towers, as that is truly the place to be on a hot summers day with the Congo River Rapids perfect to get a dozen or so friends into a raft and get shoved around in a fast flowing stream with water splashing left and right for refreshment. However, for those that prefer something a bit more peaceful and quite, a walk up in the Lake District would seem like a good idea. Lake Windermere is a stunning sight in the summer.

Basic Outdoor Activities

As much as all of the above sounds incredibly fun it could be quite costly, logistically difficult and time consuming. Thus, for those who prefer to remain in the abode of Derbyshire more simple outdoor activities could be organised through MixingOut. This could be as simple as a barbecue as that would be very easy to organise, just set a the date and time and welcomingly invite people to your home and a fun afternoon is guaranteed. Furthermore, dog walks is a very popular way to make new friends and get out there in the sun, just make sure to wear sun cream! Since nearly 1.5 million people own a dog in the West Midlands, there will be little problem in finding a suitable partner for your walk.

Something More Active

Not that what we have been talking is in any way passive, as all outdoor things are active, yet if you really want to get out there on a hot day and lose a couple of kilos playing some sort of sport, then Derbyshire in the summer is the perfect location for that. There is plenty of space all around you and many people who want to get stuck into a game of footy in the park. It does not, of course have to be so conventional as to always being touch rugby or football – why not purchase a frisbee or a rounders set and get everyone down the park!?
At the end of the day it doesn’t really matter what you are up to, as long as you are outside enjoying the sunshine with your friends summer is going to be a cruise.

Find out what other MixingOut-ers have already put on in Derbyshire for this summer’s antics.

Come April, the weather could be better or could be worse but for those not going all the way to Bermuda for some fun and sun, Derby has quite a lot to offer! Let’s take a look at some fantastic upcoming events in Derby this April…

Rock’n Roll Back the Years

Kicking off the post Easter season is Dave Hamilton’s Rock’n Roll Back the Years at the Guildhall Theatre on the 1st of April. This retro show is fun and just a little bit different from the usual weekend do, a chance to let loose with some friends and enjoy the beat of olden times. There will be a live band – The Fugitives in addition to the spectacular singers, Ash Denver and the Tiffany Girls. David Hamilton will bring the audience a unique experience as of his association over the years with legendary artists such as Roy Orbison, Cliff Richard, The Beatles and many more.

Ladyboys of Bangkok

Alternatively, the Ladyboys of Bangkok, performing at Sabai Pavilion the same night, provide the kind of euphoric entertainment that makes a weekend to remember, with their electric musical tributes and dazzling costumes. With the tickets ranging from £16 to £36 this cabaret experience will involve the music of pop icons such as Rihanna, Shakira and One Direction. The show will astound the spectators with elegant, yet rigorous choreography and the flawlessly beautiful appearance of the dancers will make your jaws drop.

Kate Smurthwaite

On April 29th, feminist, atheist comedian Kate Smurthwaite is sharing her controversial and award winning humour with audiences at The Bean Cafe. Combine with good friends and even better wine and can’t beat it for a ladies night out. Tickets will start at around £8 yet this one is definitely not to miss as Kate is know for her unorthodox comic approach of getting straight to the point so beware of the full on rib-tickling galore.

The Print Project

How about a cultural? The Print Project at the Deda is exhibiting until April 30th. The Print Project Group began in 1999 by people who shared a passion for monochrome photographs, aiming to build a community around their interest. The event will showcase paintings by Wanda Brookes, revolving around her passion for the Derbyshire landscape, which is inspired by her childhood memories playing in the beautiful universe of the countryside.

2Q Festival

This is an exclusive opportunity for the music lovers as the new multi-venue festival has hit Derby with headlines such as Little Comets, We are the Ocean and James Walsh ranging from six different locations starting at the Guildhall Theatre and finishing at the Vines. This festival will see many up and coming artists who will set of the summer vibes with some exceptional live music. The event will happen on the 9th of April and if a success the 2Q festival will become an annual endeavour with more artists and more venues.

The January blues are over and the credit cards should be looking slightly better now. More good news is that March is only next week so bring on the spring! We’ve got a lot planned for March as the year starts to really hot up for things to do.

Meal at Le Bistrot Pierre

When: Saturday 5th March
Where: Derby

We’ve round up some of the best things to do in Derby this month, so you can go out and have some fun, even when it’s cold!

Christmas Lights Big Switch-On Derby Market Place

When: Saturday 14th November, from 4:30 pm

What is it: The annual turning on of the city’s Christmas lights is a massive tradition, and this year is no exception.

Celebrity Big Brother veteran Natasha Hamilton has the honour of flipping the switch, but not before taking to the stage to perform a few hits from her Atomic Kitten days. There will also be a parade of entertainers sweeping the Spot earlier in the afternoon, so plenty of opportunities to grab a hot chocolate and enjoy the festivities during your weekend Christmas shopping.

Derby Night Market Cathedral Quarter

When: Tuesday 19th November, from 5:00pm to 10:00pm

What is it: The bustling Derby Night Market is back for a third year running, trailing from the Cathedral Quarter area through streets, arcades, courtyards, market halls and the Old Bell Hotel Ballroom.

This year is set to boast 100 stalls, the perfect opportunity to get your hands on some lovely Christmas gifts, arts and crafts, and lots of other vintage goodies. There will also be street food and drink on sale (to get you in the mood) and live DJ sets to keep the festivities going into the night.

Crafternoon Tea Pickford House

When: Wednesday 20th November, 2:00pm to 4:30pm

What is it: If you and your friends fancy a chance of getting creative this Christmas, here’s your chance to craft some beautiful handmade wreaths to celebrate the season. Vintage tea and cake is served throughout the afternoon, included in the £18 per person admission fee, and a choice of fabrics and embellishments to make the ideal wreath for you, or as a gift for your family or friends.

Only Fools and 3 Courses Derby Roundhouse

When: Thursday 21st November, from 7:00pm

What is it: Only Fools and Horses is a national institution – even mote so during the festive season – and this 3 courses dinner event is the perfect way to enjoy and celebrate both.

Hosted by Marlene and Boycie, with guest appearances from Rodney, Uncle Albert, and Del Boy himself, it’s going to be a comedy experience unlike no other.

On the other hand, you might love everything about the changing colour of the leaves, the crisp autumnal air, and the way you look dressed as a sexy vampire…

Regardless of your seasonal preferences, we’ve found some really great things to do in Leeds over the next coming months.

MINT Festival

When: Sat 19th – Sun 20 September

What: A stella assembly of electronic music heavyweights, MINT Festival is two jam-packed days of quality live acts at Wetherby Racecourse, featuring the likes of Sub Focus, ShyFX and Cause & Affect.

On top of all that, legendary underground bass artist Zed Bias will be performing. The perfect event for all you guys who love it big and messy!

British Art Show 8

When: From Fri 9th October

What: Leeds Art Gallery will be exhibiting one of the country’s most ambitious and influential shows this Autumn (up until January 2016).

Taking place every five years, this is the first time the British Art Show has come to Leeds since 1990, so it’ll be a rare opportunity to glimpse some fascinating pieces by some of the UK’s leading artists – a real culture-fest!

Archie’s Bar & Kitchen

What: Situated riverside, in the city’s vibrant drinking and dining district, Archie’s Bar &Kitchen serves up delicious food and drinks in a stylish yet comfortable setting.

It only opened it’s doors to public earlier this month, so if you’re looking to visit someplace new with friends then this is the ideal venue!

So with much anticipation and a great deal of ‘geeking-out’, we run down the movies we’re most excited for…

The H8ful Eight

Tarantino’s latest offering closes his periodic trilogy (Inglorious Basterds, Django Unchained), taking place some time after the American Civil War and revolving around eight westerners who seek refuge in a stagecoach stopover on a mountain pass during a blizzard.

Among this odious octet are a ruthless hangman (Kurt Russell) and his psychopathic prisoner, a bounty hunter (Samuel.L Jackson), and a Confederate General, of which one is not who they claim to be.

Every Tarantino film that comes out is more than just another movie release, it’s an event, which is why we’re so excited for this one. Expect violence and blood by the bucketload, peppered with quick-fire dialogue and lashings of cinematic reference for good good measure.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Another monumental event, this one, something fans of the series have been waiting for since the release of the disappointing prequels more than decade ago. This time however, all will be redeemed as JJ Abrams – the creator of television’s Lost and the guy who spectacularly rebooted the Star Trek franchise – is at the creative helm.

Set 30 years after Return of the Jedi, in a galaxy far, far away… The Force Awakens is a continuation of the original trilogy and sees remnants of the fallen Galactic Empire disrupt the peace established at the end of the last movie.

Box Office projections for Star Wars are insane, predicted to top Avatar (currently the highest-grossing movie of all time) and smash all sorts of records. Movie-goers and longtime fans everywhere will be eager to see how events play out in one of cinema’s most beloved stories. But perhaps the biggest allure is the return of the original cast, including Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher.

007 James Bond: Spectre

Slated for an October release, the latest Bond movie – and likely the penultimate in Daniel Craig’s chronicling of the series – sees everything come full circle; with the secret agent on the cusp of retirement and the return of Casino Royale’s illusive Mr.White, as well as the first appearance of shadowy criminal organisation Spectre.

Other than the initial premise, not much else is known about this one. But with Christopher Waltz as the main protagonist and Sam Mendez returning to director’s chair after his success with SkyFall, there’s plenty to get excited about.

Call us immature but we’d much rather get stuck in to a game of bubble football than sit at a posh dinner table with real ‘grown ups’, talking about interest rates, wine and relationships – because the best relationships involve mucking about with your mates!

That’s why we’ve put together a list of fun, exciting and totally childish things we’d unashamedly love to do in Leeds.

Zorbing – Hazlewood Castle

As well as laser tag, Hazlewood Castle also offer body zorbing – probably the single-coolest thing anybody has thought of doing with plastic.

If you’re unfamiliar with the concept, it involves a group of friends – each contained within their own inflatable bubble – bouncing around an open field and crashing into each other.

Hitting the water – Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre

When the weather is warm and sunny as it has been recently, few things are more appealing than getting wet and wild in the surf.

Unfortunately, the coast is about 58 miles in every direction. Fortunately, Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre offers a whole host of exciting water activities including sailing, canoeing and power-boating.

Paintball – Delta Force

One of the most exciting activity centres in Leeds, Delta Force offers paintball matches with you and your friends across an assortment of zones; such as a Tomb Raider themed environment and an area that resembles a post-apocalyptic London. Let the games begin!