National Mills Weekend

The power of water in the Derwent Valley enabled industrial pioneers such as Richard Arkwright to mass-produce goods in factories for the first time. Find out more at these special activities for National Mills Weekend…

Saturday 11^th May: 11.30am Hydro Power at Masson Mills

The story of hydro power at Masson began when Richard Arkwright built his water powered cotton spinning mill in 1783. The mill’s first turbines were installed in 1928 and the current turbine installation continues to power the site today. Join Dean Needle, director of Derwent Hydroelectric Power, on a tour of the mill’s water power engineering and its modern day hydro turbine installation. Learn about Derwent Hydroelectric Power’s hydro schemes throughout the Derwent Valley and UK.

Start point: Masson Mills Visitor Centre

Accessibility: One set of four steps, lift and ramps available

Duration: Approximately 1 hour

Cost/Booking: £5 booking required by email to info@massonmills.co.uk or phone 01629 581001

Saturday 11^th May: 1.30pm Cromford’s Water Story Walk

A one way walk from Cromford Market Place, around the village and along the canal to High Peak Junction, Leawood Pumphouse and Aqueduct Cottage. Explore the relationship of this village with water and why it was so important to the village, mills, landscape and transport. At the end of the led walk, take some time to explore the High Peak Junction Railway workshops, visit Leawood Pumphouse or Aqueduct Cottage that will be open or walk back to Cromford.

Start point: Market Place, Cromford, DE3 3QE

Accessibility: Some uneven ground and limited views if seated on a mobility scooter/tramper.

Distance: 2.5 miles (4.3 miles total including return to Market Place) sorry no dogs.

Cost/Booking: Free. Booking essential by email to dvmwhs@Derbyshire.gov.uk give name and numbers.

Sunday 12^th May: 11am Hydro Power at Cromford Mills

Spend the day at Cromford and learn all about waterpower from 1750 to the present day. At 11am join us for a close look at the modern waterwheel generating up to 25% of our electricity needs. Meet some of the people who made this happen and find out how it works. Enjoy lunch in one of our cafes, including complementary tea and coffee, before a tour to learn about the history of waterpower on the site and hoe Richard Arkwright harnessed it to revolutionise manufacturing.

Start point: Cromford Mills

Cost/Booking: £20 and includes a voucher for a free tea or coffee. Book at: www.cromfordmills.org.uk/event/hydro-power-tour/

Why not travel by train or bus to get to your chosen event? Details available at: https://www.derwentvalleymills.org/getting-there/