National Lottery Open Week at Cromford Mills
We’re delighted to be taking part in National Lottery Open Week, running from 7–15 March 2026.
Thank you to all National Lottery players – your support helps raise an incredible £32 million for good causes every week across the UK. At Cromford Mills, support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund over many years, has helped us transform our historic buildings and strengthen our resilience as a charity.
To show our appreciation, we’re offering FREE Arkwright Experience tours to visitors who present a valid National Lottery ticket (digital or physical) on arrival during the Open Week dates.
Most recently, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, alongside other funders, awarded us £1.369 million in Development Phase funding to help transform one of our key mill buildings and develop a new skills and learning programme. This project is now underway. Over the next year we will work with stakeholders and communities to develop the plans and secure further funding to deliver the scheme from 2028. This support has been invaluable in helping us sustain Cromford Mills and continue our work with local communities.
This is a fantastic opportunity to explore the birthplace of the modern factory system and discover the story of Sir Richard Arkwright’s pioneering cotton mill. Step inside our historic buildings, uncover over 250 years of industrial heritage, and learn how this remarkable site shaped the world we live in today.
Whether you’re local to the Derwent Valley or visiting from further afield, National Lottery Open Week is the perfect time to experience one of Derbyshire’s most important heritage landmarks – on us.
How to take part:
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Visit between 7–15 March 2026
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Bring a valid National Lottery ticket
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Present it on arrival to receive your free Arkwright Experience tour
How to book:
Please note: To book, please contact us directly or pop into the Mill Yard Shop.
Tours at 12pm and 2pm daily.
Tel: 01629 823256
Email: info@arkwrightsociety.org.uk
