Darley Abbey village is a short distance from the busy A6 just north of Derby. It is a village of restored mill cottages, built in rows or around squares. It was originally an Augustinian priory, founded by Robert Ferrers, second Earl of Derby, around 1146. The Abbey became one of the most important in Derbyshire, but was surrendered as part of the Dissolution of Monastries, in 1538, and almost totally obliterated.

Medical: Park Farm Medical Centre, 3 Park Farm Centre, Darley Abbey, Tel: (01332 559402)

Schools Old Vicarage School, 01332 557130; Walter Evans C of E Primary School, 01332 557139; The Ecclesbourne School, 01332 840645

Public transport: There is no railway station in Darley Abbey, however there is a local bus service to Alvaston, Borrowash and Spondon.

Sports and leisure: There is no leisure centre in Darley Abby. The nearest is the Queen's Leisure Centre on Cathedral Road, Derby, which has three swimming pools, a creche and cafe, fitness classes, squash and racketball.