Beautiful Retreat…
Belper takes its name from the old French “Beaurepaire”, meaning “beautiful retreat”. The name was first given in the 13th century , when Edmund Crouchback, son of King Henry III, built a hunting lodge here. Centuries later, that beautiful retreat grew into a thriving market town, one that would play a vital role in the Industrial Revolution.
Today, Belper is recognised as part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its historic mills, striking architecture and strong sense of community.
But Belper is more than just its past. the town has grown into a bustling hub of shops, cosy cafes, award winning restaurants and creative businesses that give the high street its unique charm. Surrounded by rolling hills and the stunning Derbyshire countryside just a stones throw from the picturesque Peak District, Belper offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, heritage and modern living.
Fun Facts
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Belper is part of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site- a birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.
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Belper’s Ritz Cinema, opened in 1882 and converted in the 1920’s, is one of the UK’s oldest cinemas still in use.
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Belper was once world famous for its nail-making industry, so much so that the locals (and now its football team) were known as the “Nailers”.
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Belper has scooped multiple Britain in Bloom awards, thanks to its floral displays and green spaces.
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Belpers High Street, filled with independent shops, cafes and restaurants, has won Best High Street of the Year Award…twice!
Community Spirit in Action
Speaking of community spirit, we’d like to give a special thank you to Jim Bell, whose stunning photography of Belper has brought this town, and our website, to life. His images capture the beauty, history and warmth of Belper, and we’re proud to share them here as part of celebrating the town.
You can view more of his stunning photography on his Facebook page here