Built in 1721 Derby Silk Mill sits on the site of the world’s first factory and lies besides the river Derwent, on the north-eastern edge of the city centre.

The original main building was almost completely destroyed by fire in 1891, with only the foundations and gates surviving. Another fire badly damaged the building in 1910 after which the Mill was rebuilt as it can be seen today.

In December 2001, the Derwent Valley Mills in Derbyshire was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This international designation confirms the outstanding importance of the area as the birthplace of the factory system where in the 18th Century water power was successfully harnessed for textile production.

The Silk Mill today incorporates the “Museum of Making” which showcases the region’s history of making and celebrates Derby’s rich history of invention, and is active in introducing manufacturing once again to the site of the world’s first factory.