Belper

Belper is a town in the Amber Valley of Derbyshire, 7 miles north of Derby, with a population in 2011 of 21,823. It's been industrial since medieval times, thanks to nearby deposits of ironstone, made into nails and other ironware. It also became a textile town and its mills are part of the UNESCO Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. It's by no means picturesque but it's close to attractive countryside in the Peak District west and north.

By train
Belper is on the mainline between Derby and Chesterfield/Sheffield, although it is only served by one main line train per weekday. It is also served by the Derwent Valley line between Nottingham, Derby and Matlock. Trains run roughly every hour - see www.thetrainline.com for timetable details. The station is unmanned but you must buy tickets from the machine on the Derby bound platform to any destination. (If you join at a station like Derby with a booking office you must buy your ticket beforehand.)

By bus
There are regular bus services to Derby, Nottingham, Manchester (a long but beautiful journey on TransPeak) and other local towns. For Ashbourne, change at Derby or take the less frequent direct service; for Nottingham, change at Derby.

By car or cycle
Belper is on the A6 and close to the A38. Major roads lead to Chesterfield, Nottingham, Derby, Matlock and Ashbourne.

Get around
Shanksie's pony is fine for the main part of town, but pack an extra bottle of pop if you're pushing a buggy or wheelchair from the river to St John's Chapel (especially if you go up Long Row - it's steep and cobbled). Park in the Derwent Street or Coppice car parks (free), Bridge Street, Field Lane and the River Gardens (all pay and display). Some on-street parking is also available.

See

 * A number of other walks also exist around the town.
 * A number of other walks also exist around the town.
 * A number of other walks also exist around the town.

Eat
There are Iceland, Morrisons and Co-op grocery shops within walking distance of town, and several sandwich and cake shops for a quick snack.

Drink
Belper is home to over 30 pubs.
 * White Peak Distillery makes whisky and gin, and offers tours. It's at Ambergate 3 miles north of Belper.
 * White Peak Distillery makes whisky and gin, and offers tours. It's at Ambergate 3 miles north of Belper.

Sleep

 * Lots of self-catering holiday cottages in and around town.
 * Lots of self-catering holiday cottages in and around town.
 * Lots of self-catering holiday cottages in and around town.
 * Lots of self-catering holiday cottages in and around town.

Connect
As of March 2024, Belper and its approach roads have 4G from all UK carriers. 5G has not yet reached town.

Go next

 * Cromford
 * Ripley
 * Derby