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.”
1. paddlepeakcromfordweb-17.jpg
Youngsters take to the water to try their hand at kayaking as part of events to mark the 250th anniversary of the historic Cromford Mills. Photo: Paddle Peak
2. Kayaking event at Cromford Mills
Children enjoyed 30-minute taster sessions, ten paddlers at at time, giving them the chance to experience kayaking in the wonderful outdoor space Derbyshire has to offer. Photo: Paddle Peak
3. Kayaking event at Cromford Mills
Event organiser and Paddle Peak founder Peter Astles said: "What a weekend! We hope to soon get some regular sessions going for the kids around the Cromford and Matlock Bath area. Keep an eye on our website and Facebook pages for more details." Photo: Paddle Peak
4. Kayaking event at Cromford Mills
Plenty of fun was had out on the water. Organisers thanked the 'amazing athletes that gave their time to inspire our future champions', Adam Burgess, Chris Bowers, Viking Canoe Polo Team, Liam Heath, James Bebbington, Gav Barker and Rob Crowe. Photo: Paddle Peak