Discovery Days 2016

There’s so much to see and enjoy during the Discovery Days Festival between 22nd and 30th October.

Experience a charming blend of breathtaking natural scenery, fascinating industrial heritage and pure spectacle and fun in the Derwent Valley. Designated a World Heritage Site in 2001, the Derwent Valley Mills have been described as the birthplace of the Industrial
Revolution. It was here in the Derwent Valley that the essential ingredients of factory production were successfully combined. Water power was applied and successfully used for the first time on a relatively large scale. Not only was textile production
revolutionised with dramatic consequences for the British economy, but the Arkwright model informed and inspired other industries. Each mill has its own story to tell; stories of pioneering engineers and entrepreneurs who put Britain on the map and set off a chain
of events that changed how we live and work forever. The mills and the industrial settlements around them, the churches, millponds, weirs and watercourses provide the perfect backdrop for a week
full of discovery.

Booking:
To ensure a place at events please pre-book on 01629 536831 - 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday or email: gwen.wilson@derbyshire.gov.uk (unless stated otherwise).

Some activities within this booklet need to be booked directly with the organisers and the booking information is given with that specific listing. It is not essential to book for all events, but if they are fully booked, the organisers reserve the right to turn away those
people who didn’t pre-book. No charge is made for booking. During Discovery Days, the booking line may not always be answered, as the World Heritage Site Team will be out and about so please look out for us in our Hi-Viz vests if you have any queries. In
emergencies only during the Festival, please contact 07771 565687. Most events are free, but donations would be welcomed so that we can keep putting on this fantastic festival. Donation buckets will be around during the Festival!

For more details see http://www.derwentvalleymills.org/discovery-days/