The Doubling Room
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Masson Mills

4.1
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

CrowdLow
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The Doubling Room

Masson Mills

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.1
(2k reviews)

"Brilliant place! Absolutely amazing to see the scale of all the original machinery and hear some of it working still."

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Working Textile Machinery

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

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

Jacquard Looms

Machinery Hall

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

Bobbins and Reels Collection

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

Masson Mills is a working textile museum, so check their operating hours before you go. Weekends can get busy with events and visitors, so weekdays might offer a more relaxed exploration of the industrial heritage. Consider visiting during a special event for a more dynamic experience.

Navigating the Historic Site

While Masson Mills offers a fascinating glimpse into industrial history, some visitors note large steps on staircases, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues. QR codes provide additional historical context and videos, so ensure your smartphone is charged.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Crowd
Low
When
During Special Events
Why
Dynamic demonstrations & atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mason County’s Fire District 12 can no longer respond to emergencies. The agency which serves communities in and around Matlock has lost its insurance coverage. The announcement of the impending loss of coverage was made in a special community meeting. It’s been a long road for Fire District 12, who have been wading deep through controversies that have led to this point. In the meeting, it was sta...
@komo4seattle
1.8K likes • 110.5K views

⏳ Allow ample time

Plan for at least 2 hours to fully explore the museum and its exhibits. Reddit

📱 Use QR codes for info

Scan QR codes for detailed histories and videos about the machinery. Reddit

Amazing to see the equipment, including power looms and carding machines in full use at Masson Mills, Matlock Bath in Derbyshire! A great museum that has literally tens of thousands of parts and bits of equipment just lying around! #history #heritage #weaving #cloth #cotton #museum #livinghistory #derwent #derwentvalley #derbyshire #derbyshiredales
jimmywim
7 likes • 191 views
W & J Yates of Blackburn 600hp cross compound steam engine was built in 1884. Originally working at Jubilee Mill Padiham, it’s now at Masson Mills as a close surviving copy of the original engine that was once housed there. The flywheel weighs approximately 25 tons. The engine runs at about 26 revs per minute, which is half its speed when it was running commercially. Now driven from an electric mo...
steam_workshop_uk
22.2K likes • 830K views

👟 Comfortable footwear needed

Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot to see and some large steps. Reddit

☕ Enjoy the on-site cafe

The cafe offers good, inexpensive food and drink. Reddit

NEW VENUE - MASSON MILLS, MATLOCK We're delighted to have been invited by the wonderful @massonmills1783 in Matlock to host one of our free jewellery and antiques valuation mornings at their incredible venue. Join us on Tuesday 25th March from 11am - 1pm! Bring along your items, whether they be jewellery or antiques, and we can advise of their value and the best way of selling! We also buy on t...
isabelmurtoughandco
44 likes • 7.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Allow ample time

Plan for at least 2 hours to fully explore the museum and its exhibits. Reddit

📱 Use QR codes for info

Scan QR codes for detailed histories and videos about the machinery. Reddit

👟 Comfortable footwear needed

Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot to see and some large steps. Reddit

☕ Enjoy the on-site cafe

The cafe offers good, inexpensive food and drink. Reddit

🎨 Check for art events

Masson Mills hosts art and craft events, check their schedule! Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.1
(2k reviews)

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

Working machinery demonstrations
Historic steam engine
Vast bobbins collection

What People Dislike

Large stair steps
Limited info on worker exploitation

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

Yes, Masson Mills is part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its significant industrial heritage. Reddit

The X17 bus is a convenient option for traveling from Chesterfield to Masson Mills, as it stops directly outside the mill. Reddit

Absolutely! Masson Mills makes for an excellent day trip, offering a deep dive into industrial history with working machinery and informative displays. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

Entry fees are generally considered inexpensive. The cafe staff often handle ticket sales, and the cost is well worth the experience. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. InstagramReddit+1

Visitors have noted that the stairs at Masson Mills can be quite large and may present challenges for those with mobility issues. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Yes, Masson Mills frequently hosts various events, including art festivals, craft fairs, and antique valuation mornings, making it a vibrant community hub. Instagram+2

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on-site that offers good and inexpensive food and drinks, perfect for a break during your visit. InstagramReddit

The cafe typically offers acceptable food and drink options, suitable for a casual meal or snack while exploring the museum. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Masson Mills offers an engaging experience for families interested in history and how things are made. Seeing the large, working machinery in action can be fascinating for children, providing a hands-on visual lesson in the Industrial Revolution. The steam engine is particularly impressive. While the site has historical significance, be mindful of the large steps on staircases, which might require extra supervision for younger children. The on-site cafe provides a convenient spot for a family break. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Industrial Heritage Enthusiasts

For those passionate about industrial history, Masson Mills is a must-visit. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers an unparalleled look into the birth of the factory system and the Industrial Revolution. You can explore original machinery, understand the hydroelectric power system, and learn about the life of mill workers. The detailed information provided via QR codes and the live demonstrations by curators enrich the historical narrative. InstagramReddit

🎨 Art & Craft Lovers

Masson Mills is more than just a museum; it's a thriving center for arts and crafts. Keep an eye out for their special events, which often include art festivals, craft fairs, and antique valuation mornings. These events are perfect for discovering unique, handmade items and supporting local artists and artisans. The venue itself provides a stunning backdrop for creative exhibitions. Instagram+2

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Industrial Revolution Hub

Masson Mills stands as a significant monument to the Industrial Revolution, established by Richard Arkwright in 1783. It's a key component of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its pivotal role in transforming manufacturing processes. The mill showcases the birth of the factory system, offering a tangible connection to a period that reshaped the world.

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. InstagramReddit

Machinery in Motion

One of the most captivating aspects of Masson Mills is its working textile machinery. Visitors can witness power looms, carding machines, and spinning machines brought to life, demonstrating the intricate processes that produced textiles on an industrial scale. The museum also houses an impressive 600hp cross-compound steam engine, built in 1884, which serves as a powerful reminder of the transition from water power to steam. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

Community and Craft at Masson Mills

Beyond its industrial heritage, Masson Mills has evolved into a vibrant hub for arts, crafts, and community events. The venue frequently hosts jewellery and antique valuation mornings, art festivals, and craft fairs, showcasing local talent and providing unique shopping opportunities. These events bring a lively atmosphere to the historic site, attracting a diverse range of visitors. Instagram+2

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. Instagram+2

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