In recognition of the importance of the industrial sites and settlements along the Derwent Valley, they were inscribed as a World Heritage Site in December 2001.
The area includes Sir Richard Arkwright’s magnificent Masson Mill at Matlock Bath which was in continuous use until 1991. The mills houses a remarkable working textile museum and an adjoining retail village.
A short distance south is Cromford Mill where building started in 1771 to establish the world’s first successful waster powered cotton spinning mills. You only need a brief diversion to find John Smedley’s Factory Shop at Lea Mills. At Belper, Strutt’s North Mill is the home of the Derwent Valley Visitor Centre. This ‘fire-proofed’ iron-framed building influenced the construction of skyscrapers throughout the world. Here you can learn how the Strutt family influenced the development of the town.
Adjacent to the mill complex at Belper are the River Gardens where well dressing, band concerts and outdoor theatre takes place in the summer months. The De Bradelei Mill Shop offers discount shopping with style and there is also the Home outlet with bargains from famous household names.
Continue down the river valley through Milford and Darley Abbey to Derby, where the Silk Mill houses a fine collection reflecting Derby’s industrial legacy.
For further information contact:
Derwent Valley Visitor Centre
Strutt’s North Mill
Bridgefoot
Belper
Tel: 01773 880474 or 841488
Email: touristinformation@ambervalley.gov.uk