The Museum of Making
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Museum of Making Derby Silk Mill

4.6
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore 300 years of innovation at the Museum of Making, housed in Derby's historic Silk Mill. Discover engineering marvels and hands-on exhibits.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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The Museum of Making

Museum of Making Derby Silk Mill

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore 300 years of innovation at the Museum of Making, housed in Derby's historic Silk Mill. Discover engineering marvels and hands-on exhibits.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Absolutely fascinating place to visit with lots to see, the cafe has a good menu and the food and staff are awesome."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Entry & Donations Welcome

Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to support the museum's collections and operations.

Family-Friendly Fun

Interactive displays and activities, like the Lego Lake District, make it a hit with kids.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Trent Engine

The Trent Engine

Main Hall

Marvel at the colossal Trent engine suspended from the ceiling, a testament to Derby's engineering prowess.

Reddit
Lego Lake District Model

Lego Lake District Model

Interactive Zone

A surprisingly detailed Lego model of the Lake District, offering a fun, interactive experience for all ages.

Instagram
300 Years of Making

300 Years of Making

All Floors

Explore thousands of artifacts showcasing Derby's rich manufacturing history, from silk to Rolls-Royce.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Special Events

While general entry is often free, popular events like 'Assemble: Derby's Making Festival' can book up quickly. Check the museum's website and book tickets in advance, especially for family-friendly activities. Instagram+1

Embrace the Industrial Heritage

The Museum of Making is housed in the historic Derby Silk Mill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Understand its industrial past to fully appreciate the exhibits and the building itself. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Engaging activities for all
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Reply to @dan.k29 Did you spot any caches hidden near you? Download the Geocaching map and see for yourself, adventure is right around the corner! #Geocache #Geocaching #London #Leeds #Liverpool #Derby #Hull #KingstonOverHull #Birmingham #England #UK #UnitedKingdom
@hullsome
143.4K likes • 2M views

Free Entry & Donations Welcome

Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to support the museum's collections and operations. Reddit

Family-Friendly Fun

Interactive displays and activities, like the Lego Lake District, make it a hit with kids. Instagram+1

📍Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill Come with us and explore the newly refurbished Derby Silk Mill! 🏭 It’s obvious how much care and thought has been put into this refurbishment, there is so much to explore! I’d recommend to everyone, regardless of age but especially to families with children. Despite its age, the Silk Mill has been made really accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs and the a...
explorederbyshire
47 likes • 890 views
What if we told you... ... it's our biggest event of the year next Saturday! 🔨 Assemble: Derby's Making Festival 📅 Saturday 26 October, 11am-4pm 📍Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill Visit derbymuseums.org to secure your tickets (free for under 16s) Assemble is generously supported by @vaillant.uk 🤲 #AssembleDerby #AssembleDerby24 #Assemble24 #DerbyMuseums #MuseumOfMaking #VisitDerby #WhatsOn...
derbymuseums
200 likes • 6.1K views

Accessible for All

Spacious lift and ample seating available for visitors with mobility needs. Reddit

Cafe Delights

Enjoy tasty food and great coffee at the onsite cafe, praised for its friendly staff. Reddit

Looking for ideas for the Easter holidays? At the Museum of Making you can explore 300 years of manufacturing history. From stories of the Silk Mill, to tales of technology giant Rolls-Royce, there's over 30,000 artifacts to explore. You can even discover the huge influence Derby had on railways across the globe 🚂🌍 Book your train in advance for huge savings, plus under 5s travel FREE! Tap the L...
eastmidsrailway
20 likes • 993 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Entry & Donations Welcome

Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to support the museum's collections and operations. Reddit

Family-Friendly Fun

Interactive displays and activities, like the Lego Lake District, make it a hit with kids. Instagram+1

Accessible for All

Spacious lift and ample seating available for visitors with mobility needs. Reddit

Cafe Delights

Enjoy tasty food and great coffee at the onsite cafe, praised for its friendly staff. Reddit

Check for Markets

The Silk Mill often hosts artisan markets, offering unique local crafts and gifts. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Making for its engaging exhibits, friendly and helpful staff, and the stunning industrial setting of the historic Silk Mill. The free entry is a significant draw, with many recommending donations to support the enriching experience. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some minor points about cryptic clues in hunts or specific exhibit navigation have been mentioned.

"Derby Museum is an amazing place to visit! The staff are very friendly and take the time to explain everything in detail. The collection of paintings, antiques, and many other fascinating exhibits make it a truly enriching experience. A must-visit spot for anyone interested in art, history, and culture"

AMIT D J

"We visited today and 10/10 for the wonderful staff, both in the museum and the cafe. Everyone was super-friendly and helpful and made us very welcome. We visited the Earthbound exhibition on the top floor (on until January 2026) and it was fascinating, hugely varied and easily the same level as London exhibits in, say, The Science Museum or Tate Modern.

I have mobility issues so I was chuffed to see loads of seats to have small rests on and a spacious lift to all floors.

We also had tasty food in the cafe and flat white that hit the spot.

If you haven't been, go. If you have, go again! 🥳"

Jyoti Mishra

"We have just celebrated our 5 year anniversary at the Italian Mill (Museum of Making) and cannot fault a thing! From start to finish the staff at the venue were amazing, so helpful and accommodating in the arranging process but also on the night, the staff were so so friendly and guests even commented on this. The venue is absolutely stunning and our event decorator (Silhouette Events) brought our ideas to life in the most wonderful way. It’s such a gorgeous space and perfect central location when you have people travelling from different places which we did.

We had plenty of space for our DJ, Dancefloor, Photo Booth, soft play and snack table. We had 110 guests and the space was perfect. The price for hire is so reasonable which was also a major factor for us as some similar event spaces in and around Derbyshire with this same industrial style were just way out of budget.

Please consider this location for your event! We and the guests were blown away at how gorgeous it looked on the day and when the lights go down for the evening, it’s magical! Absolute 10/10!!"

Rianne H

What People Like

Friendly and helpful staff
Engaging, diverse exhibits
Historic Silk Mill setting

What People Dislike

Cryptic clues in hunts

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Museum of Making is centrally located in Derby. It's easily accessible by public transport, with train services to Derby station. Many visitors arrive by train and then take a short walk or local bus. InstagramReddit

While there isn't dedicated parking at the museum itself, several public car parks are located within a short walking distance in Derby city centre. Consider using the nearby Market Hall or Riverlights car parks. Reddit

Yes, the museum is well-served by public transport. Derby train station is a short walk away, and numerous bus routes stop in the city centre, making it convenient for visitors. Instagram

Derby has cycle paths, and you can often find cycle racks in the city centre. It's a good option if you're arriving from nearby areas. Reddit

From Derby train station, it's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk to the Museum of Making. Follow signs towards the city centre and the river. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the Museum of Making is free! However, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain the collections and exhibits. Reddit

For general visits, booking is not usually required as entry is free. However, for special events like 'Assemble: Derby's Making Festival,' advance booking is highly recommended as they can sell out. Instagram+1

Opening times can vary, so it's always best to check the official Museum of Making website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and any potential closures. Reddit

While general entry is free, some special events may have ticket prices. Children under 16 often get free entry to these events. Check event details for specific concession information. Instagram

Yes, groups are welcome. It's advisable to contact the museum in advance to arrange your visit, especially if you require any specific facilities or information. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum spans three floors showcasing 300 years of Derby's manufacturing history, from silk production to Rolls-Royce. Highlights include the Trent engine, interactive displays, and often temporary exhibitions. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! The museum is very family-friendly, with interactive exhibits like the Lego Lake District model and mini-figure hunts that children love. Instagram+1

Yes, the museum features numerous interactive displays designed to engage visitors of all ages, making learning about manufacturing history fun and hands-on. Instagram

Yes, there is a cafe on-site offering tasty food and drinks. It's a great spot to relax and refuel during your visit. InstagramReddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or during special events. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum has a cafe that serves a good menu, including tasty food and coffee. It's a convenient option for visitors. Reddit

Yes, the museum is in Derby city centre, which offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs catering to different tastes and budgets. Reddit

While there's a cafe, it's generally best to consume outside food in designated areas or outside the museum premises. Check with the museum directly for their specific policy. Reddit

Cafes in popular attractions often cater to various dietary needs. It's recommended to check the cafe's menu or inquire directly about vegetarian and vegan choices. Reddit

Reviews suggest the cafe offers good value, with reasonable prices for food and drinks, comparable to other city centre cafes. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The suspended Trent engine is a dramatic centerpiece. The industrial architecture of the Silk Mill itself, along with the Lego Lake District and unique exhibits, offer great shots. Reddit

For personal photography, tripods are usually permitted, but for professional shoots or commercial use, you'll likely need to seek permission from the museum in advance. Instagram

While general photography is usually fine, some temporary exhibitions might have specific 'no photography' signs. Always be mindful of other visitors. Instagram

Daytime visits will benefit from natural light filtering through the historic building's windows. Weekday mornings can offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Reddit

The sheer scale of the Trent engine, the intricate details of the Lego Lake District, and the diverse range of historical artifacts all provide excellent photographic subjects. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum of Making is a fantastic destination for families. Its free entry makes it an accessible outing, and the interactive displays are a huge hit with children. The Lego Lake District model is a particular favorite, offering hours of imaginative play. Don't miss the mini-figure hunt for an added element of fun, though some clues can be a bit cryptic! Instagram+1

With plenty of space to explore and engaging exhibits that cover 300 years of making, kids can learn about everything from silk to engineering in a fun, hands-on way. The museum is also well-equipped with a spacious lift and seating, making it comfortable for families with strollers or for little ones who need a rest. Reddit

🎨 Art and History Enthusiasts

For those with a passion for art, history, and industrial heritage, the Museum of Making is a must-visit. The vast collection of over 30,000 artifacts offers a deep dive into Derby's manufacturing past, from the early days of the Industrial Revolution to modern engineering marvels. The Trent engine is a breathtaking centerpiece, symbolizing the city's engineering prowess. InstagramReddit

The museum's setting within the historic Derby Silk Mill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adds another layer of historical significance. The Earthbound exhibition has been noted as being on par with London's major museums, showcasing the quality and depth of the exhibits. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to provide insights, enriching the experience for curious minds. Reddit

🛍️ Shoppers and Market Goers

If you love discovering unique, locally-made treasures, keep an eye out for the artisan markets frequently held at the Museum of Making. These markets, like the Derbyshire Artisans Market and The Craft & Flea, bring together talented local makers selling everything from homewares and jewelry to art and lighting. Instagram+2

It's a wonderful opportunity to support local creatives and find one-of-a-kind gifts. Even outside of market days, the museum shop often features beautiful local art and crafts, making it a great place to browse for souvenirs. Plus, the cafe is a perfect spot to relax after a successful shopping spree. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Derby Silk Mill

The Museum of Making is housed within the iconic Derby Silk Mill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a pivotal location in the Industrial Revolution. Originally built in the 1720s, it was one of the world's first factories. Its industrial heritage is deeply woven into the fabric of the museum, with the building itself serving as a testament to centuries of innovation and making. Visitors can feel the history in the air as they explore the multi-story structure, appreciating how it has been repurposed to celebrate Derby's ongoing legacy of creativity. Instagram+1

Walking through the museum, you'll notice how the exhibits are thoughtfully integrated within the original mill architecture. The sheer scale of the building, with its high ceilings and industrial features, provides a unique backdrop for the diverse collections. This symbiotic relationship between the building and its contents enhances the visitor experience, offering a tangible connection to the past. It’s not just a museum in a historic building; it’s a museum that is the historic building, celebrating its ongoing story of making. InstagramReddit

Derby's Manufacturing Legacy

Derby has a long and proud history of manufacturing and innovation, and the Museum of Making is a vibrant celebration of this legacy. The museum's collections span over 300 years, showcasing Derby's significant contributions to industries like silk production, railways, and aerospace, notably with Rolls-Royce. You'll encounter a vast array of artifacts, from intricate machinery to everyday objects, each telling a story of ingenuity and craftsmanship. Instagram+1

The museum goes beyond just displaying objects; it aims to inspire future makers. Through interactive exhibits and workshops, it encourages visitors to engage with the principles of making and design. This focus on hands-on learning and creativity is a key aspect of the museum's mission, ensuring that Derby's spirit of innovation continues to thrive. The 'Assemble: Derby's Making Festival' is a prime example of this, bringing together creators and enthusiasts to share their passion. Instagram+2

Events and Community Engagement

The Museum of Making is more than just a static exhibition space; it's a dynamic hub for community events and activities. Throughout the year, it hosts a variety of special events, workshops, and markets, often in collaboration with local artists and organizations. These events, such as the Derbyshire Artisans Market or the Assemble: Derby's Making Festival, transform the museum into a lively gathering place, showcasing local talent and offering unique shopping opportunities. Instagram+3

These events are a fantastic way to experience the museum in a different light and connect with the local creative community. They often feature hands-on activities, live demonstrations, and opportunities to purchase unique, handcrafted items. The museum's commitment to community engagement makes it a valuable cultural asset, fostering a sense of belonging and shared creativity among residents and visitors alike. Instagram+1

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