Research

Research has been central to the work of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site (DVMWHS) since the partners began the application for inscription on the World Heritage List. This process required a review of past research and new work to build a convincing case for presentation to UNESCO. Since achieving inscription, our commitment to research has continued to ensure there is a deep, accurate and developing understanding of the Outstanding Universal Value and stories relating to the DVMWHS.

Recent Research

The DVMWHS has a robust system in place for reviewing publications and interpretative texts to ensure accuracy. Its work is greatly aided by the DVMWH Educational Trust, which has supported the publication of existing and new research. You can see the publications produced by the Educational Trust in our Publications section. Please email DVMWHS.EducationTrust@gmail.com for details of how to purchase them. Their publications are also available at Cromford Mills and some of our local bookshops. Shorter publications written by other researchers are submitted and published here from time to time.

Research Framework

This document was produced in consultation with with our many partners, local researchers, and universities. We encourage you to use it as a guide for your studies of the World Heritage Site. More information below or you can access the interactive Research Framework ‘wiki’ here.

Workshops

Occasionally, we hold workshops for people interested in furthering their knowledge and skills, as well as sharing their work. Details of these workshops will be given here.

Sharing your research

We would love you to share your research, findings or collections that relate to the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site; its key sites, landscapes, people and places. If you would like to share what you have been working on please click this link and complete the form. Someone will be in touch with you to discuss further. Sharing research through talks, walks, exhibitions, events and projects is something we always want to explore