About this town
Visit the charming market town of Belper to discover the rich industrial heritage at the centre of the Valley that Changed the World. Belper is the only market town located at the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.
The town offers a true high street experience, discover why this market town was acclaimed as the Winner of the 2019 Great British High Street Awards with some retail therapy. Browse from friendly independent local shops to Artisan bakeries, delicious delis, and unique stores. Find foods sourced straight from the producer at the farmer’s markets held on the 2nd Sunday of the month and food fairs held twice a year, in summer and December. The markets are placed on Belper’s 200-year-old marketplace surrounded by historic buildings and structures.
Take a walk down King Street and you will discover lots of quality shops that will make your trip worthwhile, from hand-crafted jewellery to beautiful leather products there is something for everybody.
The town has a vibrant Belper Food & Real Ale Festival each summer, a Farmers' Market, and the second Saturday of each month.
History
Belper was once a remote Anglo-Saxon settlement. It's mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1087 as 'Bradelei'. The Normans renamed it 'Beaureparie' meaning beautiful retreat. The introduction of cotton mills by Jedediah Strutt, at the beginning of the 19th century, was to change Belper's landscape, turning this small village into a thriving market town.
At the top of the town, you will find St Johns Chapel Heritage Centre. The chapel dates back to about 1250 and contains an interesting collection of old photographs of Belper and memorabilia, it's open weekdays from 9.00-12.30 and the last Saturday of every month.
Places of interest
- Belper River Gardens Picturesque riverside gardens offering peace and tranquillity. Features a children's playground and rowing boats that may be hired throughout the summer months.
- Belper North Mill Visit the visitors centre that opens a window into the secrets of the Valley that changed the world.
- True High Street Experience Ranging from fashion, jewellery, furnishings, gifts, butchers, and bakers.
- Vibrant Belper Food & Real Ale Festival Hosted July.
- Discovery Day Festival Celebrate the World Heritage Site, October
- Belper Farmers Market Second Saturday of each month
Food and drink
From stylish restaurants and bars, to trendy coffee shops, traditional tea rooms and gastro pubs, you're spoilt for choice! Uncover several award-winning cafes, restaurants and delis which provide a wide range of eateries and speciality foods to tempt your taste buds. For evening entertainment, the town offers a relaxed atmosphere with restaurants, cocktail bars, micropubs, and an award-winning independent art deco cinema.
If you’re visiting in July or December don’t miss the Summer/Winter food festivals which fills the streets with delicious sights, smells and tastes.
Parking
You can see all car parks and charges on our council website at www.ambervalley.gov.uk/roads-and-parking/parking/car-park-locations
