We took the "Strutt around the Mill" guided tour on a Saturday in October. Sadly there were only two of us but our two guides who were excellent in their knowledge of the mill, and its local history and impact. We were able to get a glimpse inside the "fireproof" factory and its method of construction, and the site of the breastshot water wheel that provided the motive power. The tour largely takes you round the outside explaining the use of the various water courses to power the original four mills. Sadly the Museum’s Trust has decided that it “is not able to run the museum on a financially viable basis”. A £47,600 grant from Amber Valley Borough Council ended in September 2022 and the museum’s Landlord now plans to let the museum space at commercial levels from October 2022. The Trust was informed in August last year that the Leader of AVBC made an Executive Decision to end the funding after more than 25 years of association with the Trust in supporting the operation of the museum and visitor centre, as continuing to operate it “would be incurring annual losses of circa £70,000, which is clearly not sustainable.” I imagine that the landlord is looking to redevelop the space, but whilst there are volunteers willing to impart their knowledge of the historic town of Belper and cotton spinner Jedediah Strutt. I would encourage anyone with an interest in Indistrial Heritage to take a tour. Currently only available two days per week, so do check availability on line.

We took in the Strutt's North Mill tour with Trevor our guide. It was really enjoyable and informative and would recommend it. Incredibly the whole mill complex was run by 11 water wheels. The newest North Mill was built over a 10 metre wide water wheel that ran 5 floors of machinery. The building itself was the first to use cast iron pillars and joists, the first fireproof mill and the forerunner to all the skyscrapers in the world. Even today one section is providing electricity, enough for 500 houses.

Wandered upon this tour by chance, and me and my mate who I was with decided to give it a go. The tour was brilliant, and the tour guide who's was named Tony, was brilliant. Very knowledgeable and helpful. Well worth it and you won't be disappointed

Ian was an extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide. He took us through the development of water power in the town for the last few centuries and tied it in well to what you can see as you walk around the site. Thoroughly recommended.

Booked the Strutts North Mill tour last week for my sister and I. Val was our guide and her depth of knowledge and enthusiasm was superb. I had driven past the mill on so many occasions and always intended to take the opportunity to learn its history. I would advise anyone to do the same. Fascinating and has encouraged us to return to other heritage walks in Belper. Many thanks to all the staff and volunteers.

We had a talk and tour round the mill area with a very knowledgeable guide. The history of the mills, including their construction, and the cotton industry both locally and further afield was fascinating. There were only two of us on the tour which meant we could ask questions and discuss which was great. Note that these tours only take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays. We also enjoyed following a leafleted walking route to see the workers' housing and visiting the riverside gardens where there is a cafe and small play area.

Live in Belper but never really visited the Mills apart from walk by. What a great tour both inside and out. Really enjoyed it. Please book your tour and let’s keep history alive!

This is part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour is enjoyable and informative. Our guide Trevor was very knowledgeable explaining the history of both the mill, the town of Belper and their part in the industrial revolution. A morning well spent. Highly recommended.