
Masson Mills
A 1783 cotton mill by Richard Arkwright, now a working textile museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

Masson Mills
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1783 cotton mill by Richard Arkwright, now a working textile museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
"Brilliant place! Absolutely amazing to see the scale of all the original machinery and hear some of it working still."

⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2 hours to fully explore the museum and its exhibits.
📱 Use QR codes for info
Scan QR codes for detailed histories and videos about the machinery.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Working Textile Machinery
Main Mill Floor
Witness power looms, carding machines, and spinning machines in action, showcasing the heart of industrial textile production.

Historic Steam Engine
Engine House
Marvel at the impressive 600hp cross-compound steam engine, a testament to the power that drove the industrial revolution.

Jacquard Looms
Machinery Hall
See intricate Jacquard looms, a precursor to modern computing, demonstrating complex pattern weaving.

Bobbins and Reels Collection
Display Areas
Explore a vast collection of bobbins and reels of all sizes, highlighting the sheer scale of textile manufacturing.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating the Historic Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2 hours to fully explore the museum and its exhibits.
📱 Use QR codes for info
Scan QR codes for detailed histories and videos about the machinery.
👟 Comfortable footwear needed
Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot to see and some large steps.
☕ Enjoy the on-site cafe
The cafe offers good, inexpensive food and drink.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2 hours to fully explore the museum and its exhibits.
📱 Use QR codes for info
Scan QR codes for detailed histories and videos about the machinery.
👟 Comfortable footwear needed
Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot to see and some large steps.
☕ Enjoy the on-site cafe
The cafe offers good, inexpensive food and drink.
🎨 Check for art events
Masson Mills hosts art and craft events, check their schedule!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Masson Mills for its impressive scale of original, working machinery and the fascinating insights into industrial history. The steam engine and the vast collection of bobbins are highlights, with the on-site cafe offering good value. Some note that more could be shown about historical working conditions, and the large steps may pose mobility challenges.
"Brilliant place ! Absolutely amazing to see the scale of all the original machinery _and hear some of it working still. And millions of bobbins and reels of all types and sizes ...Still using the hydro electric power from tge river. Well worth a visit and supporting this amazing Museum"
S
"I knew of this place only from it's previous incarceration as a shopping centre. It's new incarnation took a while to penetrate. We got the X17 from home in Chesterfield, it stopped outside Masson Mill. Once we ignored the empty bit we entered via the gift shop cum factory leftovers cum café. Nice food. A single person ran the café, sold tickets and showed where to go next. Food and drink was most acceptable .No guided tours on Easter Monday so it was a care of figuring it out for oneself. The barcode links were useful on my smartphone and give specific histories and showed videos. A curator, dressed in mill -made peasant cloth ran several lots of machines. She chatted when not involved in nursing the machines into life. It helps if you know about the history of power weaving and spinning. The Jacquard looms were great as I remembered those cards as the input methods of early main frame computers. The stairs were difficult for myself as my mobility is not so good. Very large steps.
More staff needed as and when finances improve. We recommend this to anyone interested in our industrial history ."
John Tait
"The birth of the factory and industrial revolution happened here, this a UNESCO world heritage site.
The museum shows some insight into the working conditions of the early industrial age. So much more could be shown regarding working conditions and exploitation of those times."
James Sainsbury
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Masson Mills is accessible via public transport. The X17 bus route stops directly outside the mill. It's also a pleasant 20-minute walk or a short 5-minute drive from Oakhill Hotel.
Information regarding specific parking availability is not widely detailed, but it's recommended to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date parking information.
Yes, Masson Mills is part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its significant industrial heritage.
The X17 bus is a convenient option for traveling from Chesterfield to Masson Mills, as it stops directly outside the mill.
Absolutely! Masson Mills makes for an excellent day trip, offering a deep dive into industrial history with working machinery and informative displays.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, especially on public holidays. It's best to check the official Masson Mills website or their social media for the most current operating times before your visit.
Entry fees are generally considered inexpensive. The cafe staff often handle ticket sales, and the cost is well worth the experience.
Advance booking is usually not required for general visits, but it's always a good idea to check their website, especially if you plan to visit during a special event or festival.
Guided tours may not be available every day, particularly on public holidays. However, a curator often demonstrates the machines, and QR codes provide additional historical context.
The focus of Masson Mills is its historic textile museum. While there might be shops on-site, the museum entry typically has a fee, but it's considered good value.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see and hear working textile machinery like power looms and spinning machines, explore a historic steam engine, and view a vast collection of bobbins. QR codes offer extra historical details.
Visitors have noted that the stairs at Masson Mills can be quite large and may present challenges for those with mobility issues.
Photography is generally permitted, and many visitors share their experiences and photos on platforms like Instagram. Drone footage has also been captured around the mill.
Masson Mills was established by Richard Arkwright in 1783 and is a significant site in the birth of the factory system and the Industrial Revolution.
Yes, Masson Mills frequently hosts various events, including art festivals, craft fairs, and antique valuation mornings, making it a vibrant community hub.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site that offers good and inexpensive food and drinks, perfect for a break during your visit.
The cafe typically offers acceptable food and drink options, suitable for a casual meal or snack while exploring the museum.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume your own food in designated picnic areas if available, or to purchase from the on-site cafe to support the venue.
📸 📸 Photography
The working machinery, the historic steam engine, and the vast collections of bobbins offer excellent photographic opportunities. The exterior of the mill also provides a striking industrial backdrop.
Drone footage has been captured around Masson Mills, suggesting it might be possible, but always check for local regulations and any specific site restrictions before flying.
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always wise to be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography, especially near operating machinery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Industrial Heritage Enthusiasts
🎨 Art & Craft Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Industrial Revolution Hub
The museum provides insight into the working conditions of the early industrial age, though some visitors feel more could be shown regarding the exploitation of workers during that era. Nevertheless, the experience of seeing the machinery in operation, powered by the river's hydroelectricity, offers a powerful glimpse into the past. The sheer scale of the operation, with its millions of bobbins and reels, is a testament to the immense output of these historic factories.
Machinery in Motion
A curator, often dressed in period attire, plays a crucial role in demonstrating these machines, sharing their knowledge and bringing the history to life. This hands-on approach, combined with the sounds and sights of the operational equipment, creates an immersive and educational experience. The Jacquard looms, with their complex card systems, are particularly fascinating, drawing parallels to early computing inputs.
Community and Craft at Masson Mills
Workshops, such as travel sewing box classes, are also held here, fostering creativity and skill-sharing. The presence of local artists and artisans, like stained glass makers, adds another layer to the visitor experience, offering the chance to discover unique, locally made items. The Masson Mills Brass Band has even performed festive songs at the site, further highlighting its role as a community gathering place.
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