Derby Silk Mill - Museum of Making

Derby has a rich industrial history that is internationally significant, with the Silk Mill standing on the site of the world’s first factory. The Grade II listed building is part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site and is currently being transformed into the new Museum of Making.

The £16.4m project is being led by Derby Museums, supported by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England, D2N2 and a range of trusts and foundations.

Derby people are helping to make the new Museum of Making, and the project has been co-produced with the local community, designers and makers. Co-production volunteers are gaining valuable skills and experience working with architects, makers-in-residence and an in-house team to design and build the new Museum.

When the Silk Mill re-opens as the Museum of Making in September 2020, it will exhibit important items from Derby’s proud manufacturing history and celebrate the people who made the City a world leader.

The Museum of Making will also showcase new local innovation and provide a space to inspire makers of the future with learning programmes and activities focussed on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and maths).

When completed, the Museum of Making will give public access to some parts of the building for the very first time and will use modern technologies to ensure it is as environmentally efficient as possible.

The Museum of Making is expected to attract around 140,000 visitors per year, bringing an extra £4m to the local economy.

To find out more about the Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill, please visit the website: www.derbymuseums.org/locations/museum-of-making. You can keep up with developments at: www.derbysilkmill.tumblr.com or follow us on Twitter @MuseumOfMaking.