Belper, Derbyshire

Belper is a small but lively market town that has its origins as a former Georgian Mill Town. It lies in the Derwent Valley district of Derbyshire, eight miles north of Derby.

Around 1740, Belper had a population of only around 500. With the arrival of Jedediah Strutt and his famous cotton mills, the population increased to around 8000 by 1830. The cotton mills are the reason behind such a rapid growth.

Originally there were five water-powered cotton mills, of which now only one remains, the North Mill. This now houses the Derwent Valley Visitor Centre that exhibits the various developments of the Mills and the community that developed around them.

Also standing is the East Mill that was built in 1912, a huge seven storey building of red brick that looms over the town. This stands on the side of the River Derwent alongside a picturesque waterfall.

There are other numerous places of interest to visit in Belper including the George Brettle Warehouse from 1834 and the Herbett Strutt School built in 1909.

Belper’s River gardens are also well worth a visit to drift away from the busy town that houses a modern set of shops and amenities, including a great variety of pub and places to eat and stay.

Belper Accommodation

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