DISCOVER

DERBY

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DERBY HERITAGE WALK 1

IV.   Go over the pedestrian crossing and turn right down Full Street, crossing the road by the side of the Old Silk Mill Public House and then walking down to Derby’s Museum of History and Industry.

10. THE SILK MILL

In 1702, the engineer, John Sorocold, built the first Silk Mill on an island site in the River Derwent but it was not a success. The problem was that the silk produced could not rival the fine silk imported from Italy, the manufacture of which was a closely guarded secret. John Lombe travelled to Piedmont in Italy, in order to study the skills and technology involved, secretly making drawings which he managed to smuggle out of the country. Then together with his step-brother, he arranged for Sorocold to build an impressive five storey factory powered by water from the Derwent. It was the first factory in England where all the processes were carried out under one roof and utilising one source of power. It employed about 300 people and established Derby as the first industrial town in the country. Disaster struck in 1910, when the factory was largely burnt down, but it was rebuilt and today serves as Derby’s Museum of Industry and History.

11. BONNIE PRINCE CHARLIE STATUE

The 250th Anniversary of the ‘45’ was celebrated by the erection of a bronze equestrian statue on the site where the Power Station once stood, before demolition in 1971. This act recognised the part played by Derby at a defining moment in British History. The statue was presented as a gift to the city by Lionel Pickering, a local benefactor, and was the first equestrian statue to be created anywhere in Britain since the war.

V.   Go round the back of the museum and along the footpath by the road, which takes you under the Inner Ring Road; turn right on to St Mary’s Bridge.

12. ST MARY’S BRIDGE

An impressive structure of neo-classical design built by Thomas Harrison, between 1789-1794. The original bridge pier can be seen under the foundations of the chapel and other remnants of the medieval bridge are to be seen in the river. It is remembered as the place where the Padley martyrs remains were hung on the bridge outside the chapel, which at that time was serving as a gaol. They had been hung drawn and quartered for after being convicted of Treason for their religious beliefs.

 13. ST MARY’S BRIDGE CHAPEL

Standing on the western side of St Mary’s Bridge, is one of only six bridge chapels remaining in England. It gave spiritual reassurance to travellers often about to set off on dangerous journeys. It also acted as a Toll House, where a resident hermit collected tolls from people entering Derby. It is still used for worship.

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PLACES TO VISIT ON THIS WALK

 Derby Cathedral (01332 341201) dominates the skyline with its impressive Perpendicular Tower, the second highest in England to the Boston Stump. Light and spacious inside, the iron screen by Robert Bakewell is an inspirational masterpiece in this proud and beautiful building. Concerts and special events take place throughout the year. Open daily.

The Silk Mill – Derby’s Museum of Industry and History (01332 255308) was the first factory in England where all the processes were carried out under one roof and utilising one source of power and is now a World Heritage site. It has now been converted into a museum where you can discover the facts about Rolls-Royce aero-engines, the history of railways and coal mines and much more. Open daily apart from during the Christmas and New Year Break.

 Pickford’s House Museum (01332 255363) housed in a handsome Grade I listed building, built in 1769 by Derby architect, Joseph Pickford for his own occupation. It was opened as a museum in 1988 and delightfully recreates a scene of Georgian domestic life with splendidly furnished rooms and fine costume displays. Open daily apart from during the Christmas and New Year break.

REFRESHMENTS

Derby Cathedral Coffee Shop, (tel. 01332 381685) located opposite the Cathedral Centre, offers an award winning cafe  and Gift Shop, selling local produce, a display of the Treasures of the Cathedral, a Biblical Garden and an Education Centre. The Coffee Shop serves light lunches, sandwiches, cakes and a wide range of teas and coffees. Open Monday to Saturday 9.30-4.30pm.

**The Coffee Shop, won Best Tea/Coffee Shop  in the 2004 Derbyshire Food and Drinks Awards.

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