Masson Mill

Masson Mill is a cotton manufacturing building dating to the 18th century that spans five stories in red brick on the western bank of the River Derwent. The structure displays typical features of an early factory, with large windows for natural light and a design built around water power machinery.

Richard Arkwright founded the mill in 1783 using innovative water frame technology to spin cotton thread. This development helped establish modern factory production methods that spread across Britain.

The building drew workers from across the region and became central to how the community viewed itself during industrial times. It shaped local identity as a place where modern manufacturing methods were first tested at scale.

The site is easy to reach with parking available at the building and good public transport connections nearby. Inside you can walk through shops and a textile museum without needing special access arrangements.

The mill has an unusual curved weir built across the river specifically designed to guide water with maximum efficiency toward the machinery. This technical detail shows how carefully early factory owners engineered their water power systems.