Cromford Mills
The world's first water-powered cotton mill, built by Arkwright in 1771, and the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.
Cromford Mills was built in 1771 by Richard Arkwright, the 'father of the factory system'. It was the world's first successful water-powered spinning mill and pioneered the model of the modern factory and workers' community. It is the core of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site and is managed by the Arkwright Society. Entry to the site is free. There is a visitor centre, exhibitions, a café and a small shop, and guided tours explain the early Industrial Revolution. Beside the mill, the Cromford Canal has a towpath and remains of the High Peak Railway. Arkwright's terraced workers' housing on North Street is well preserved. It is about 2 km from Matlock Bath.
Opening hours
About 09:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Matlock Bath
- Heights of Abraham
- National Tramway Museum (Crich Tramway Village)
- Haddon Hall
- Chatsworth House
- Bakewell
- Padley Gorge
- Eyam (Plague Village)