The famous mills complex, the world’s first water-powered mill which was built by Sir Richard Arkwright in the Derwent Valley, formed the backdrop for the event.
Thirty-minute back to back taster sessions, 10 paddlers at at time, were given free of charge to young people over the bank holiday, giving them the chance to experience kayaking on the Cromford Canal.
On Saturday, Team GB canoe slalom members Chris Bowers and Olympian Adam Burgess, just back from Tokyo 2020, showed onlookers the ins and outs, and ups and downs of canoe slalom.
Event organiser and Paddle Peak founder Peter Astles said: “What an amazing weekend. We filled every come and try it session back to back and gave more than 250 youngsters the chance to experience kayaking on the beautiful Cromford Canal.
"The kids also got the chance to see our amazing paddlesport ambassadors on the water and meet them, share their stories and even hold their Olympic medals.”
5. Kayaking event at Cromford Mills
The famous mills complex, the world’s first water-powered mill, is turning 250. Photo: Paddle Peak
6. Kayaking event at Cromford Mills
Youngsters learnt how to attempt the slalom kayak event on Cromford Canal. Members of the Team GB squad came along to show them how it was done. Photo: Paddle Peak
7. Kayaking event at Cromford Mills
Viking Canoe Polo Team, from Belper, put on an 'awesome' display of action and impressed everyone with their ball and paddle skills. Photo: Paddle Peak
8. Kayaking event at Cromford Mills
Other events also took place in the mill yard and on the canal throughout the weekend including open canoe and canal boat trips, rock climbing and orienteering. Photo: Paddle Peak