Britain's What's On Event Guide
Harnessing the power of the Derwent - Milford and Makeney
Explore the Hidden Power of the River Derwent!
Join Dr Ian Jackson on his first-ever guided walk with the Belper North Mill Trust, and uncover the fascinating history of Milford and Makeney’s waterways. Discover how the River Derwent powered countless watermills for centuries — long before the Strutts arrived in the 1780s — and see how they transformed the area with weirs, textile mills, bleaching and dyeworks, and even iron foundries.
Get to know about:
• Early hydroelectric turbines powering lighting and machinery around 1900
• Historic patent disputes from the 1500s
• Modern hydroelectric power still being generated today using a turbine installed in 2020
This largely flat, scenic walk along the river takes about 2 hours, offering incredible history, picturesque views, and stories you won’t find in any guidebook. Whether you’re a history buff, an engineering enthusiast, or just love a great walk with fascinating tales, this experience brings the past to life — and shows how the ingenuity of the past still powers our world today.
Moderate walk: mostly flat, easy pace, suitable for all ages.
Walk Leader: Dr Ian Jackson
Join Dr Ian Jackson on his first-ever guided walk with the Belper North Mill Trust, and uncover the fascinating history of Milford and Makeney’s waterways. Discover how the River Derwent powered countless watermills for centuries — long before the Strutts arrived in the 1780s — and see how they transformed the area with weirs, textile mills, bleaching and dyeworks, and even iron foundries.
Get to know about:
• Early hydroelectric turbines powering lighting and machinery around 1900
• Historic patent disputes from the 1500s
• Modern hydroelectric power still being generated today using a turbine installed in 2020
This largely flat, scenic walk along the river takes about 2 hours, offering incredible history, picturesque views, and stories you won’t find in any guidebook. Whether you’re a history buff, an engineering enthusiast, or just love a great walk with fascinating tales, this experience brings the past to life — and shows how the ingenuity of the past still powers our world today.
Moderate walk: mostly flat, easy pace, suitable for all ages.
Walk Leader: Dr Ian Jackson
Sunday 2 Aug 26
Wheel Pit behind the Elephant & Peacock, Derby Rd, Milford, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 0QW
10.30am-12.30pmTickets: Adults £7.50 (plus online booking fee) Under 16s go free
Places are limited – all walks must be pre-booked online at www.belpernorthmill.org.uk/calendar/
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