Visits and Trips
Visits and Trips
The Derwent Valley was the place where a mechanically powered factory system was developed for the textile industry by Richard Arkwright and others in the eighteenth century. The Valley has been called ‘the cradle of the factory system’. The factory system that was developed here changed a whole way of life.
What to Study?
There are a whole host of opportunities for all ages and abilities. You could focus on History, Art and Design, Design Technology, STEM, Geography, Literacy, Numeracy, Science, Citizenship and Music. Many of the mill sites offer specific programmes of visits or are able to tailor make a visit to your pupil’s needs and requirements, see below for more details.
Why not visit by train?
It’s really easy to visit the sites by train including activities to do on the journey. School and College groups of 10 or more, travelling on the train service between Derby and Matlock can benefit from a 26% discount on standard rail fares. For group fares, child rate is 5 to 17 years old on local journeys. For details visit: Derwent Valley Line School Trips
Masson Mills Educational Visits
Clock in to a shift and step back in time as you enter Sir Richard Arkwright’s 1783 water powered cotton spinning mill. Explore a huge collection of working historic textile machinery and experience the sights, sounds and smells of what it was like to work in a textile mill during the Industrial Revolution.
Cromford Mills Educational Visits
Cromford Mills hosts schools, colleges and universities, supporting teaching, learning and research. They help people of all ages understand and learn from society-transforming heritage and inspire the innovators of the future.
BIRDSWOOD TRIP BOAT ON THE CROMFORD CANAL
Opportunity to charter an exclusive trip on Birdswood the Historic Canal Boat. Enjoy a peaceful journey along the Cromford Canal and get up close to the fabulous wildlife and take in the amazing scenery.
High Peak Junction Educational Visits
Have a go on the blacksmith forge or download and borrow free activity resources to explore High Peak Junction Railway Workshops, Leawood Pumphouse and the Cromford Canal.
Belper North Mill Trust Educational Visits
Strutt’s North Mill is the perfect place for an Education Day. Children can explore what life was like for a millworker and better understand the Industrial Revolution.
Derby Museums Educational Visits
Derby Museums offers a wealth of school sessions across their city centre sites: The Museum of Making, Pickford's House and Derby Museum and Art Gallery.
Residential Visits in the Derwent Valley Mills
Why not bring your group to stay in the Derwent Valley Mills? Mount Cook Adventure Centre, Willersley Castle and Lea Green all offer high quality residential experiences, activities and chance to explore the World Heritage Site.