DerbyDerbyshire

The Derby Silk Mill (the world's first factory, 1721), Rolls-Royce (engines for 90% of the world's aircraft are made here), the Cathedral, the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution

Derby's Silk Mill on the Derwent — built in 1721 by Thomas Lombe — was the world's first factory in the modern sense, using water power to automate silk throwing. This makes Derby the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Rolls-Royce, founded in Derby in 1906, now makes jet engines for 90% of the world's commercial aircraft.

The Derby Silk Mill — now the Museum of Making — is genuinely extraordinary. The Cathedral Quarter for independent food and culture. The Derwent Valley Mills heritage trail. The Pride Park for Derby County football.