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Harnessing the power of the Derwent - Milford and Makeney

At Wheel Pit
On Sun 2nd August 2026
From 10.30am To 12.30am

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.
Wheel Pit
Behind The Elephant & Peacock
Derby Road
Milford
Belper
Derbyshire
DE56 0QW
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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

Start Point: Wheel Pit behind the Elephant & Peacock, Derby Rd, Milford, Belper DE56 0QW

Tickets: Adults £7.50 (plus online booking fee) Under 16s go free

Places are limited - all walks must be pre-booked online at https://www.belpernorthmill.org.uk/calendar/



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