Museum of Making

Derby Silk Mill is widely regarded as the site of the world’s first modern factory, built in the valley that changed the world. Industry brought prosperity to some and poverty and wage slavery to others. Yet it shaped Derby as a city of making and creativity. Industrial society led to the creation of civic institutions and stimulated a civil society in which people campaigned for social and political rights.

Celebrating the area’s rich history of innovation, the Museum of Making in the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site is a contemporary space telling Derby’s 300-year history of making to inspire new creativity. Designed and made by the people and industries of Derby with exhibits, workshops, activities and events, there’s something here for everyone including a new café, shop and venue hire space.

Opening in 2021, the Museum of Making has been developed through major grant funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership. Significant support was also provided by Derby City Council, Rolls-Royce and a range of charitable trusts and foundations.