Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site

Description

Discover the Place That Changed the World

What if you could walk in the footsteps of the people who helped create the modern world?

In the heart of Derbyshire lies the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site - the birthplace of the modern factory system and the only UNESCO-inscribed World Heritage Site in the East Midlands.

This is industrial heritage on a grand scale, but it’s also somewhere you can walk, explore, eat, create, relax and make a day of it.

Start at the Museum of Making at Derby’s historic Silk Mill, where more than 300 years of ingenuity, invention and craftsmanship come to life through fascinating collections and interactive experiences.

Then follow the River Derwent towards Darley Abbey.

Along the way, discover imposing historic mills, rushing river weirs and hidden stories from the people who helped transform manufacturing forever. What was once a pioneering industrial village is now a vibrant destination where heritage meets creativity, independent businesses and beautiful green spaces.

Take a stroll through Darley Park, find a peaceful spot beside the river, pack a picnic or simply enjoy the scenery. For a different perspective, climb aboard Derby Riverboat and cruise along the Derwent, surrounded by the landscape that powered an industrial revolution.

And when it’s time to eat, drink and unwind, there’s plenty to discover. Enjoy award-winning dining at The Brasserie at Darley’s, share tapas at Lorente’s Darley Abbey, linger over coffee and brunch at Lamp House, sample craft beers at Little Darley or explore the carefully curated selection at Darley Abbey Wines.

Feeling creative? Mosaic at the Mills offers workshops, activities and wellbeing experiences - giving you the chance to make something of your own in a place built on creativity and innovation.

Then keep following the river…

Head to Belper, another jewel in the Derwent Valley story and a key destination for the Belper250 celebrations.

Step inside Strutt's North Mill, one of the best-preserved examples of early factory design anywhere, and discover how Belper’s people, technology and ideas helped shape the modern industrial world.

Explore exhibitions, join a guided tour and uncover the human stories behind the machinery, mills and inventions. Here, history isn’t something you simply read about - you can see it, walk through it and experience it.

One valley. Centuries of innovation. Endless things to discover.

Whether you’re fascinated by history, looking for a great family day out, passionate about architecture and design, searching for somewhere beautiful to explore, or simply want to discover something different, the Derwent Valley has it all.

Come for the history. Stay for the scenery, food, creativity and stories.

Follow the river. Discover the mills. Experience the place that helped change the world.
The Derwent Valley isn’t just somewhere to visit - it’s a story you can step into.

Click here to find where to visit in the Derwent Valley