We have compiled a list of the 40 most popular surnames across Derbyshire, so you can see how many other people bearing your family name are spread across the county.
As well as this, we have provided details of the hidden meanings behind each surname – with some of these historical names descending from the Normans, Hebrews and Germanic tribes, among others.
All data relating to the popularity of surnames across Derbyshire was taken from Forebears, and information on the meaning of each surname was taken from Ancestry and FindMyPast.
37. Baker
Baker is the 37th most popular surname in Derbyshire, held by 2,222 people across the county. Baker is an occupational name, which comes from the Middle English word ‘bakere’, a derivative of ‘bacan’ or ‘to bake’. Photo: jason chadwick
38. Harris
Harris is the 38th most common surname in Derbyshire, held by a total of 2,215 residents. The surname Harris denotes a 'son of Harry/Henry', and originated mostly in the 1300s.Pictured here is Maria Harris from Tallbird Records. Photo: Brian Eyre
39. Edwards
Edwards is the 39th most popular surname in Derbyshire, with 2,205 people across the county holding this last name. It has a patronymic origin, referring to the 'son of Edward'. Shown here is a presentation to Board and Bean by Mayor Of Chesterfield Cllr Jenny Flood. Andrew Yates, Clinton Peters, John McAssey, Daniel Figueiras and Robyn Edwards are pictured. Photo: Brian Eyre
40. Spencer
Spencer is Derbyshire’s 40th most common surname, held by 2,194 residents. The Spencer surname is thought to be English, with origins going back to the Norman Conquest of 1066. It is believed to be Anglo-Norman, rooted in the word 'espenser' (steward) and the Middle English 'spenser' from the same source. The title would be given to chief tenants of particular areas of land, or stewards and butlers who were part of a noble household. Pictured here are Chris Spencer and Steve Nebolt at the Chesterfield CAMRA Winter Beer Festival 2025. Photo: Brian Eyre