Belper

Settlement in Derbyshire Amber Valley

England

Belper

Belper is a town located in the county of Derbyshire, England. Situated on the River Derwent, it lies about 8 miles north of Derby and has a population of approximately 21,000 people. The town is known for its rich industrial heritage, particularly in the cotton industry.

Belper's history dates back to the 13th century when it was mentioned in the Domesday Book. However, it was during the Industrial Revolution that Belper flourished. In the late 18th century, the town became a thriving center for cotton mills and was at the forefront of the industrial boom. Many of the historic mills and factory buildings still stand today, contributing to Belper's unique character.

The town's architecture is a blend of traditional and industrial styles. The North Mill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a prominent landmark and serves as a reminder of Belper's industrial past. The town center features a mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, creating a vibrant and bustling atmosphere.

Belper is also known for its natural beauty, with the nearby Peak District National Park providing stunning landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. The River Gardens, located along the River Derwent, offer a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors alike.

The community in Belper is active and close-knit, with various local events and festivals throughout the year. The Belper Arts Festival, held annually, showcases local talent in music, art, and theater. The town also has a strong sense of environmental responsibility, with several initiatives promoting sustainability and a greener lifestyle.

Overall, Belper is a charming town with a rich history, picturesque surroundings, and a vibrant community spirit.

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Belper Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.023275/-1.4812936 or Grid Reference SK3447. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

New houses, Cowhill

Belper is expanding, some new houses on Cowhill, to the southeast of the town.

Richard Webb

Bargate Rd, Belper

This is looking North West along Bargate Rd with the edge of Parks Estate to the right (an ancient deer park). A few hundred metres down the hill you can see over the township of Belper. This was the home of the Strutt family dynasty and their cotton mills.

Ian Tilley

Belper North Mill & River Gardens

Mills in Belper were constructed by Jedediah Strutt from 1776. The original North Mill was built in 1786 but the building was destroyed by fire in 1803. Now part of Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, the new mill built in 1804 is a forerunner of the modern skyscraper. Another member of the Strutt family, George Herbert created the gardens in 1905.

Garth Newton

Wyver Lane Nature Reserve

Important wetland reserve in landlocked Derbyshire. Link

A misty October day but hopefully gives a feel of the bird life here

dave challender

Fungi near Wyver Lane footpath

Earth Star (Geastrum triplex). The reserve is not just about birds.

dave challender

Hank winder in Belper North Mill Museum

I was expecting someone to have posted "main" pics for here and this to be a supplemental - I suppose I had better take a shot of the building proper later this week! Anyway still adding associated interiors of museum.

dave challender

Hosiery knitting exhibit in the museum

dave challender

Hosiery exhibits in North Mill Museum

Brettles hosiery on display - a local Belper company

dave challender

Kilburn Road, Openwoodgate

From this point the A609 descends into the Derwent Valley at Belper. The pub is the Seven Stars.

Stephen McKay

East Mill, Belper

Built 1912 but with a magnificent chimney from 1854. This was demolished in 1990 after suffering damage in a gale. The base is just visible. The engine house contained a turbine and is much smaller than you would expect. The site still uses water turbines on the Derwent to produce power for the grid.

Chris Allen

Belper Fire Station

Belper Fire Station, Matlock Road, Belper, Derbyshire.

Kevin Hale

Wall on Chevin Ridge

This wall is next to the track that leads over the Chevin ridge just north of Duffield. The wall is a very substantial construction but stands isolated and serves no obvious purpose. It has been suggested that it was once part of a firing range and the location at the end of a long narrow field seems to support this.

Mike Bardill