Belper

The market town of Belper lies within the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. The historically significant town is famous for it's nail making, dating back to Roman times and its silk stocking manufacturing in the 18th Century. The industrialisation of manufacturing processes has much to thank the Derwent Valley for, without which Britain would undoubtedly have been poorer and less powerful throughout the world.

This Trail takes you through the historic sites and streets of Belper, but it also shows you a creative side to this hard working town. Some of this Trail uses the poems displayed on the Poetry Trail inspired by Beth Fender a local lady who set up two poetry societies in Belper. There is a free poetry trail leaflet available from the library and the tourist information centre at The Mill (or you can download it from bethspoetrytrail.co.uk). Local beauty spots such as the Memorial Gardens and Riverside Gardens are also included within this Trail - perfect for that short refreshment break.

This Trail is fully accessible by wheelchairs and pushchairs, although there is a section along cobbled streets which might prove bumpy to some. Most of the route is away from traffic, although there are a couple of short sections alongside quite busy roads. However, there are safe crossing areas throughout, usually utilising pedestrian crossings - please use them where provided. The Trail will take you approximately 2 hours to complete the 2 mile route.