News 11 August 2026

All Aboard!

For two weekends during August, the first floor of Derby Market Hall will be transformed with railway-themed family fun.

The Market Express Rolls into Derby Market Hall This August

Looking for a fun and free family day out in Derby this summer? For two weekends during August, the first floor of Derby Market Hall will be transformed with railway-themed family fun, including a miniature ride-on railway, creative activities and free colouring sheets.

Best of all, it’s completely free and there’s no need to book.

The star attraction is The Market Express, an authentic 5-inch gauge miniature railway from Arthur’s Here and There Railway.

Children and families can climb aboard and enjoy a ride around the track inside the historic Market Hall. Whether your little ones are already fascinated by trains or simply fancy trying something different during the summer holidays, it promises to be a memorable addition to a day out in Derby.

The railway will be located on the first floor of Derby Market Hall, with free rides available throughout the event.

Get Creative with the Doodle Train

The fun doesn’t stop when you step off the railway.

Young visitors can also get involved with the Doodle Train, an interactive collaborative activity where children can use their imagination and add their own creative contribution.

There will also be free railway-themed activity and colouring sheets, including puzzles and games to keep younger visitors entertained.

Children can colour in a specially illustrated picture showing the railway inside Derby Market Hall and take their creation home as a souvenir of their visit.

A Free Summer Holiday Activity in Derby

Finding affordable activities to fill the school holidays isn’t always easy, which makes The Market Express an ideal option for families looking for free things to do in Derby this August.

There are no tickets to buy and no advance booking is required. Simply head to Derby Market Hall during the event, make your way to the first floor and join the fun.

While you’re there, you can also explore the restored Grade II-listed Market Hall, browse its independent traders and stop for something to eat or drink.

When is The Market Express at Derby Market Hall?

The Market Express will run across two weekends:

Friday 21 – Sunday 23 August 2026
Friday 28 – Sunday 30 August 2026

The railway will operate from 10am until 4pm each day.

Location: First Floor, Derby Market Hall, Derby
Price: Free
Booking: No booking required

So, if you have a young train enthusiast in the family – or you’re simply searching for something fun, different and budget-friendly to do during the summer holidays—make tracks for Derby Market Hall.

All aboard The Market Express!

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