Masson Mills

As the northern gateway to the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, Masson Mills was sympathetically refurbished to continue life as a working textile museum. The River Derwent powered the mills, in the form of electricity generated by hydroelectric turbines. It is now also home to a visitor centre, offices and meeting and event spaces. 

What makes them special?

Sir Richard Arkwright’s Masson Mill was built in the 18th century on the banks of the River Derwent at Matlock Bath, and reflected the grandeur of its river gorge setting.

Masson Mill was the only Arkwright mill to use the Derwent, a power source ten times greater than his first mill at Cromford.