If you are looking for a seamless way to escape the urban energy of the city centre for some of Derbyshire’s finest parkland, look no further than the allestree. Operated by the award-winning Trentbarton, this route isn’t just a commute; it’s a direct line between the historic streets of Derby and the leafy, tranquil suburbs that give the city its reputation as one of the UK’s greenest places to live.
Whether you are a student heading to lectures, a family planning a picnic, or a walker looking to explore rewilded landscapes, the allestree offers a reliable, comfortable, and frequent connection. It’s the perfect example of how a bus journey can transform a day out, taking you from high street shopping to ancient woodlands in under twenty minutes.
What makes this route special
Trentbarton is well known for doing things differently, and the allestree is no exception. The buses are distinctly branded—you won’t miss their bold red livery—and the service is designed with passenger comfort in mind. The drivers are famously friendly, and the interiors often feature plush seating and USB charging points, allowing you to relax or catch up on messages while the world goes by.
But the real magic lies in the transition of scenery. The route acts as a green corridor. You start in the heart of the city, but very quickly, the concrete gives way to the impressive architecture of the university district and then to the rolling green expanse of two of the region’s best parks. It is a route that showcases the very best of Derby (Derbyshire), blending urban convenience with rural tranquility.
A route breakdown of key locations
The journey begins in the hustle and bustle of Derby city centre. As you board at the bus station or The Spot, you are just moments away from the Cathedral Quarter and the Silk Mill. However, as the bus heads north-west, the landscape shifts.
The University district
Travelling up Kedleston Road, the bus serves the University of Derby. Dominating the skyline here are the distinctive copper-roofed towers of the Kedleston Road campus. It’s a hive of activity during term time, giving the route a vibrant, youthful energy.
Markeaton and the park
Continuing onwards, you reach Markeaton. This area is the gateway to the beloved Markeaton Park. This isn’t just a patch of grass; it is Derby’s most visited park for a reason. As the bus stops nearby, you are within striking distance of the Mundy Play Centre, the Craft Village, and the Orangery cafe. It’s a fantastic stop-off point if you have children in tow or want a gentle stroll around the duck ponds.
Allestree and the wilder side
The route terminates and loops around the suburb of Allestree. This is widely considered one of Derby’s most desirable residential areas, characterised by wide avenues and mature trees. However, the crown jewel here is Allestree Park. Once a municipal golf course, this vast space is currently undergoing a fascinating “rewilding” project. It feels much wilder and more remote than Markeaton, offering sweeping views over the Derwent Valley. Staying on the bus to this point rewards you with access to diverse habitats, historic woodland, and a peaceful escape that feels miles away from the city centre.
When does the route run
One of the greatest strengths of the allestree is its reliability. This is a seven-day-a-week service, ensuring that whether you are commuting on a Tuesday morning or seeking a Sunday afternoon stroll, the bus is there for you.
The service starts early in the morning—ideal for early risers and commuters—and runs until late at night. This late-night service is particularly useful for students or those enjoying an evening out in Derby who want a safe, cost-effective ride home.
Service frequency and connections
You rarely have to check the timetable for the allestree because of its “turn up and go” frequency.
- Mon-Fri: Buses run as frequently as every 7 to 10 minutes during the day.
- Saturdays: A high frequency is maintained, usually every 10 minutes.
- Sundays: The service remains consistent, typically running every 15 to 20 minutes.
Because it terminates in the city centre, it connects effortlessly with other Trentbarton services (like the red arrow to Nottingham or the swift to Ashbourne) and national rail services at Derby train station.
Value for money
Travelling on the allestree is generally cheaper than parking in the city centre or at the parks. Trentbarton offers several ways to pay that keep costs down:
- Mango: This is the operator’s own smart card and app. You scan on and off, and it automatically caps your spending. It usually offers the best value for regular travellers.
- Zigzag: If you are planning a full day out, a ‘zigzag’ ticket offers unlimited travel across the Trentbarton network after 9am (and all day weekends). This is perfect if you want to hop between Markeaton and Allestree.
- Contactless: You can simply tap your debit card or phone on the reader as you board.
Top tips for the journey
- Track your ride: Download the ‘trentbarton land’ app. It shows you exactly where your bus is in real-time, so you don’t have to wait in the rain.
- Pick your park: If you want ice creams, crazy golf, and paved paths, get off at Markeaton Park. If you want mud, quiet woodlands, and nature spotting, stay on until Allestree Park.
- Sit near the window: As you head up Kedleston Road, there are some lovely glimpses of the Derbyshire countryside on the horizon.
Planning a day out on this route
For a perfect Saturday, start your morning in Derby with breakfast at a cafe in the Cathedral Quarter. Walk to the bus station and hop on the allestree.
Alight at University of Derby if you want to admire the architecture, or stay on a few stops longer for Markeaton Park. Spend the morning exploring the Craft Village there—you might find some unique handmade gifts.
For lunch, hop back on the bus and head further north to Allestree. Grab a sandwich at the local shops at Park Farm (a short walk from the route loop) or enjoy a picnic in Allestree Park. Spend the afternoon hiking through the rewilding zones, spotting cattle and birds of prey.
As the sun sets, the frequent service means you can head back to the city for dinner without worrying about a designated driver or parking limits.
Year-round appeal
The allestree is not just a summer route. In autumn, the trees lining Kedleston Road and filling Allestree Park turn a spectacular gold and burnt orange. In winter, the parks offer crisp, frosty walks (and excellent sledging hills in Allestree Park if it snows!), with the warm bus waiting to thaw you out for the journey home. In spring, the manicured gardens of Markeaton come alive with blossoms. It truly is a route for all seasons.
