Derwent Valley Mills, Britain

Belper East Mill
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:BelpermillEast.JPG
Author: Bigar


Derwent Valley Mills are 18th and 19th century cotton mills in Derbyshire, England, that are recognised as a World Heritage Site. The mills were the result of new technology developed in the 18th century that brought about an advancement in the field of cotton spinning. The technology enabled cotton to be produced continuously. The technology was developed by Richard Arkwright. It proved so successful that by 1788, over 200 Artwright-type mills were built throughout Britain.

For much of the 18th century, Derby was the center for the cotton industry using Arkwright's method. In neighboring Belper, Darley, Abbey and Milford, rival mills were also developed. They often make use of Arkwright's method but did not pay royalty to him. By the 19th century, the mills at Derwent Valley began its decline as production shifted to Lancashire, which has a superior position in terms of market and procurement of raw materials.

Derwent Valley Mills, Derbyshire, England
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Derby_cotton_mill_2006.jpg
Author: Unnamed Thompski


Derwent Valley Mills was inscribed as a World Heritage Site during the 26th session of the World Heritage Committee in Helsinki, Finland, on 11 - 16 December, 2001.

World Heritage Site Inscription Details

Location: N 53 1 44 W 1 29 17 in Derbyshire, England
Inscription Year: 2001
Type: Cultural
Inscription Criteria: II, IV