Masson Mills

The old mill complex at Masson rises up from the Derwent Valley like something from a Victorian novel, all red brick and industrial purpose. It's a working textile mill that's been operating since 1783, which is the sort of thing that makes you pause and think about the sheer relentlessness of the Industrial Revolution. You can walk through the actual production floors, see the looms and machinery in action, and get a proper sense of what it meant to work in these places - the noise must have been deafening.

Historians and anyone interested in how Britain actually built itself will spend a solid two hours here. Families with older children do well too, though young kids might struggle with the noise and the repetitive nature of the displays. The site includes shops selling textiles and gifts, which is fairly standard fare but the quality's decent.

Matlock's just down the road, which means you can couple this with a walk along the riverbanks or a visit to Matlock Bath if you fancy something livelier. The nearby caravan parks - Packhorse Farm, Barn Farm, and Darwin Forest are all within 5 miles - make for a decent base if you're spending a few days in the area. The Peak District proper is on your doorstep, so you won't be short of walking routes once you've had your fill of industrial heritage. Check ahead for admission fees and opening times, as these can shift seasonally.