Visit Darley Abbey and Derby

To really appreciate all the contrasts of the Derwent Valley, you really should visit Darley Abbey and Derby.

Darley Abbey

The village contains the most complete 18th century mill complex in the world, built by the Evans family.  The mill complex has been sympathetically restored and now houses several businesses, including a spectacular wedding venue. Wander through the tranquil streets of former millworkers’ houses. However, please be respectful to the people who live there.

Stop for a while at St Matthew’s, built by the first Walter Evans in 1819 as a church for the Evans family and the villagers. Exploring the graveyard, you may notice slate tablets identifying past millworkers and their children, and some Evans family graves. Below the church is a crypt, the final resting place for nine members of the Evans family.

Take a stroll in Darley Park, which was once the parkland setting for the Evans family home. Now it’s home to the National Hydrangea Collection, as well as a Butterfly Garden, children’s playground and a terrace cafe.

Darley Abbey, as its name suggests, was once the location of a religious community, and you can find the one surviving building from that time in the centre of the old village. Find out more about The Abbey in Hidden Heritage.

Derby

The Silk Mill

Following the path through Darley Park, you will arrive at The Silk Mill, southern gateway to the World Heritage Site, located in the Cathedral Quarter of the City. It is now home to the Museum of Making, having undergone major redevelopment and will re-open in spring 2021.

The Joseph Wright Gallery in Derby Museum and Art Gallery

Along the historic streets of Iron Gate and Sadler Gate, you will find the Museum and Art Gallery, with its impressive Joseph Wright Gallery. This showcases portraits, landscapes and scenes of industry that will help you understand the stories of the Derwent Valley Mills. The Joseph Wright Study Centre holds drawings, prints, letters and other information relating to Wright’s life and work. Visit the Coffee House and treat yourself to drinks and snacks surrounded by Royal Crown Derby, Pinxton ceramics and Derby Porcelain.