Cromford 723202599
VPDD Location Cromford Canal
VPDD Location Cromford Mills
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    Welcome to Cromford

    This historic village, in the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, has a fascinating past and exciting present.

    Things to do in Cromford - Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

    The charming Derbyshire village of Cromford, at the southern tip of the Peak District, is forever associated with Sir Richard Arkwright as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Arkwright built the world's first water-powered cotton mills here in 1771 and pioneered the factory system. Developed around the mills as a purpose built industrial community and visitors today can take fascinating tours at Arkwright's Mill and explore th visitor centre, shops and cafe.

    Set in a valley, carved by the River Derwent, the village is a great base for exploring the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site and is surrounded by glorious wooded hills and dramatic cliffs.

    A charismatic village, with a pretty village pond and surprises around every corner. Here you can discover some of the oldest purpose-built industrial housing in the world, as well as traditional shops and pubs and school, built by the Arkwright family, for the millworkers. Look out for the Old Lock Up which used to be the jailhouse, but is now a contemporary art gallery.

    As you wander around the village, you will notice the most distinguished building in architectural style is The Greyhound Inn, now a hotel and restaurant. Built by Richard Arkwright in the 18th century, it provided luxury accommodation for his business associates and important visitors.

    In the Market Place, to the side of The Greyhound hotel, you will see the authentic Georgian Shambles. They still contain small shop units for local independents which are well worth exploring.

    Why not saunter up Scarthin, to the rear of The Shambles, for a wonderful view of the Greyhound pond? Whilst there, you can also drop into the famous Scarthin Bookshop to browse this treasure trove of books, old and new.

    The village has a vibrant community and events diary too. With independent shops, art galleries, pubs and cafes, you’re sure to find something unique here.

    There are some great walks starting in Cromford, especially along the canal from Cromford Wharf to High Peak Junction, where there is a Visitor Centre, Lea Wood Pumping Station and the start of the High Peak Trail. Black Rocks with its' picnic site and craggy tors are high up above the village.

    In The Area

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    Featured

    Business

    White Peak Distillery

    Established in 2016, White Peak Distillery is the first full-scale, craft distillery in the Peak District region.


    Business

    Cromford Mills

    Explore the history of Cromford Mills and discover the captivating story of how the Derwent Valley changed the world in the 18th Century with the…


    Business

    Cromford Wharf

    The wharf is a haven for wildlife and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Little grebes and water voles can be seen throughout the year. In summer…


    Business

    Oakhill Dining

    Come and enjoy a dining experience with us, amongst beautiful surroundings


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    Cromford Village Heritage Walk

    A great walk around the historic village of Cromford.


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    Oakhill Hotel

    Oakhill is a 15-bedroom boutique hotel, with a stylish bar, lounge and restaurant, set in extensive landscaped gardens within the historic village…


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    The Greyhound

    The Greyhound Hotel, Bar & Restaurant at Cromford is a unique historical building, with a pleasing ambiance, informal seating and high quality service


    Cromford Canal

    Now a picturesque and relaxing place to go for a countryside walk, Cromford Canal was once a buzzing hub of Derbyshire’s industry.


    Business

    Parkys

    At Parkys eatery you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, cream teas and lunch specials


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    Antiques and Vintage Fair at Cromford Mills

    A marvellous Artisan Market showcasing local makers, artisans and producers. The market runs each third Sunday of the month in Arkwright’s historic…


    Business

    High Peak Junction Visitor Centre – Cromford Canal

    Discover some of the oldest surviving railway workshops in the world, from the former Cromford and High Peak Railway and step back in time with the…


    Our Great Itineraries

    Car-free guide: 48 hours in the Derwent Valley

    Connecting charming towns and villages with an amazing industrial past, the Derwent Valley Line runs from Derby to Matlock.


    Events in Cromford

    Events

    Japan Fest Welcomes Asia at Cromford Mills

    Enter a celebration of Asian culture with “Japan Fast Welcomes Asia” Free Event


    Events

    Railway Workshops Forge Days at at High Peak…

    Have-a-go at being a blacksmith on the historic forge!


    Events

    Cromford Steam Rally

    Derbyshire’s premier steam heritage and vintage rally, showcasing the very best in steam, transport and leisure industries 5-6th August


    Trails nearby

    A Stroll along Cromford Canal

    A walk along the old canal tow path on the five mile stretch through the Derwent Valley between Ambergate and Cromford passing through the village of…


    The Pennine Bridleway

    The Pennine Bridleway is a 205 miles (330 Km) long National Trail running through the Pennine hills from Derbyshire to Cumbria.


    Cromford Mill & Village Walk

    Explore the home of the Industrial Revolution and discover Derbyshire’s rich history on this 6 or 8 mile walk.


    Walk through the Derwent Valley Mills World…

    A delightful 6 mile or 8 mile walk through some of the key places within the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.


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