Location
Welcome to Cromford
This historic village, in the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, has a fascinating past and exciting present.
Things to do in Cromford - Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
The charming Derbyshire village of Cromford, at the southern tip of the Peak District, is forever associated with Sir Richard Arkwright as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Arkwright built the world's first water-powered cotton mills here in 1771 and pioneered the factory system. Developed around the mills as a purpose built industrial community and visitors today can take fascinating tours at Arkwright's Mill and explore th visitor centre, shops and cafe.
Set in a valley, carved by the River Derwent, the village is a great base for exploring the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site and is surrounded by glorious wooded hills and dramatic cliffs.
A charismatic village, with a pretty village pond and surprises around every corner. Here you can discover some of the oldest purpose-built industrial housing in the world, as well as traditional shops and pubs and school, built by the Arkwright family, for the millworkers. Look out for the Old Lock Up which used to be the jailhouse, but is now a contemporary art gallery.
As you wander around the village, you will notice the most distinguished building in architectural style is The Greyhound Inn, now a hotel and restaurant. Built by Richard Arkwright in the 18th century, it provided luxury accommodation for his business associates and important visitors.
In the Market Place, to the side of The Greyhound hotel, you will see the authentic Georgian Shambles. They still contain small shop units for local independents which are well worth exploring.
Why not saunter up Scarthin, to the rear of The Shambles, for a wonderful view of the Greyhound pond? Whilst there, you can also drop into the famous Scarthin Bookshop to browse this treasure trove of books, old and new.
The village has a vibrant community and events diary too. With independent shops, art galleries, pubs and cafes, you’re sure to find something unique here.
There are some great walks starting in Cromford, especially along the canal from Cromford Wharf to High Peak Junction, where there is a Visitor Centre, Lea Wood Pumping Station and the start of the High Peak Trail. Black Rocks with its' picnic site and craggy tors are high up above the village.
Featured Businesses
Featured
Business
White Peak Distillery
Established in 2016, White Peak Distillery is the first full-scale, craft distillery in the Peak District region.
Business
Cromford Mills
In The Area
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Featured
Business
White Peak Distillery
Established in 2016, White Peak Distillery is the first full-scale, craft distillery in the Peak District region.
Business
Cromford Mills
Explore the history of Cromford Mills and discover the captivating story of how the Derwent Valley changed the world in the 18th Century with the…
Business
Oakhill Hotel
Oakhill is a 15-bedroom boutique hotel, with a stylish bar, lounge and restaurant, set in extensive landscaped gardens within the historic village…
Business
Cromford Wharf
The wharf is a haven for wildlife and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Little grebes and water voles can be seen throughout the year. In summer…
Business
Saints Meadow
A perfect escape: Luxury wooden retreat cabins in the rolling hills of the Derbyshire Dales.
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Crich Tramway Village
Take a tram ride through time at Crich Tramway Village, home of The National Tramway Museum - an ideal destination for all ages.
Cromford Canal
Now a picturesque and relaxing place to go for a countryside walk, Cromford Canal was once a buzzing hub of Derbyshire’s industry.
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Antiques and Vintage Fair at Cromford Mills
A marvellous Artisan Market showcasing local makers, artisans and producers. The market runs each third Sunday of the month in Arkwright’s historic…
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High Peak Junction Visitor Centre – Cromford Canal
Discover some of the oldest surviving railway workshops in the world, from the former Cromford and High Peak Railway and step back in time with the…
Our Great Itineraries
Car-free guide: 48 hours in the Derwent Valley
Connecting charming towns and villages with an amazing industrial past, the Derwent Valley Line runs from Derby to Matlock.
Events in Cromford
Events
Cromford Mills – Paranormal Investigation
Join Haunted Heritage at this incredible venue as we try to communicate with the ghostly residents
Events
Leawood Pump -Heritage Open Days
Take a tour of Leawood Pumphouse built in 1849 to pump water from the River Derwent into Cromford Canal.
Events
Cromford Mills – Paranormal Investigation
Join Haunted Heritage at this incredible venue as we try to communicate with the ghostly residents
Trails nearby
A Stroll along Cromford Canal
A walk along the old canal tow path on the five mile stretch through the Derwent Valley between Ambergate and Cromford passing through the village of…
The Pennine Bridleway
The Pennine Bridleway is a 205 miles (330 Km) long National Trail running through the Pennine hills from Derbyshire to Cumbria.
Cromford Mill & Village Walk
Explore the home of the Industrial Revolution and discover Derbyshire’s rich history on this 6 or 8 mile walk.
Walk through the Derwent Valley Mills World…
A delightful 6 mile or 8 mile walk through some of the key places within the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.
Places to Stay
Business
Lower Damgate Farm Cottages & Retreats
Welcome to Lower Damgate Farm holiday accommodation. When you stay you at the farm, will be a part of a big family, not only with us but our animals…
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The Old Cattle Barn
A beautifully renovated stone barn in the grounds of a Grade 2* listed farm dating back to 1640. Now a modern two-bed, two-bath cottage with idyllic…
Business
The Bulls Head, Old Glossop
The Bulls Head offers you a warm Derbyshire welcome, comfortable rooms, a wide selection of real ales and good quality, traditional pub food.
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