Five Places To Find A Good Windmill

And we are not talking of those modern wind turbines here, but one of those good old fashioned machines straight out of  “Camberwick Green”. Introduced as they used the power of the wind prior to Industrial Revolution days, their purpose initially was to grind the grain for food production. As time passed, their use expanded to include early industrial needs and water extraction.

Many have now disappeared, but those that remain have often been lovingly restored and often provide a dramatic picture on stark flat landscapes where wind conditions can be favourable.
Those that have been turned into private residences obviously cannot be visited, but we can offer details of five scattered around the countryside where you can have a good old nose round.

Bembridge, Isle of Wight

Bembridge Windmill

The only remaining windmill on the island. Now in the care of the National Trust you can link their web page about Bembridge Mill to find out more.
If you are thinking of visiting the Isle of Wight for a holiday, Brit Breaks can recommend Stonewind Farm at Totland as a delightful place to stay

White Mill, Sandwich, Kent

This windmill stopped its working life only about sixty years ago, dating from about 1760. It has the advantage of being open all year round, and learn more about it on this helpful web page. For something different consider staying at The Old Post Office at Ruckinge for a great holiday break.

Alford Windmill, Lincolnshire

A five sailed windmill ( that means that it has five blades). Constructed in about 1837, it is still in working use now. Check further details and opening times on this page which gives full details

Little Walk Cottage at Thorganby Hall offers super accommodation in Lincolnshire if you think you could spend some time in this lovely county.

Skidby Windmill, Yorkshire

Built in 1832, and now the last remaining working mill in Yorkshire. At one time the sails were disconnected and electric machinery installed, but in 1974 it was reconverted to wind power. There is some great information, including opening times on the Skidby Windmill web site.

There is plenty of choice on The Brit Breaks site if you want to spend some time in Yorkshire. We particularly recommend The Bosun's Cottage at Whitby which sleeps eight people and is ideal for larger groups.

Stow Windmill, Paston, Norfolk

A tower mill built between 1825 & 1827 and last worked around 1930, when all machinery was removed except the brakewheel. Some restoration work has been undertaken, including new sails, fantail & stage in 2003. Log on to this interesting site for more information
Norfolk is choc full of wonderful holiday properties, search the properties on our web site for some of the best.

If you catch the windmill bug, look out for National Mills Weekend, the 10th and 11th May 2014. Check this fascinating site for full details.