Public given run of the mills in weekend event
Nearly 30 mills in Herefordshire, Shropshire, Powys, and Worcestershire – both working and ancient mill sites – are being showcased to the public in a National Mills Weekend in May.
And a number of the working mills will be in action, with waterwheels turning, or grinding corn.
The event is on the weekend of May 11 and 12.
In Shropshire area, the early 18th century Charlcotte iron furnace near Neenton, which was originally powered by waterwheel and is described as "an amazing survival" by event organiser Alan Stoyel, will be open on the Saturday only from 11am to 4pm.
Open throughout the weekend, from 10am to 4pm, is Rockhill Mill, Greete, described by Mr Stoyel as a restoration challenge of an empty mill building being brought back to full working condition with a secondhand waterwheel and machinery.
"The waterwheel and machinery will be turning, possibly even grinding corn."
Another is The Mill on the Green, Ludlow, by Dinham Bridge, open 10am to 4pm. He says this is a new building incorporating a cafe on the site of a former mill, with a modern waterwheel generating electricity.
Daniel's Mill, near Bridgnorth, for which there is a small admission charge, is open 11am to 4pm, has three sets of millstones, and is powered by a large waterwheel in a dramatic setting.
Open on the Sunday only, from 2pm to 4.30pm, is Clun Youth Hostel.
"Formerly a corn mill, it retains its machinery. There are three sets of millstones, a drying kiln and a rare and early turbine in a deep pit."
Among other mills featured are Arrow Mill, near Kingsland, Staunton Mill, Staunton on Arrow, and Court of Noke Mill, near Staunton on Arrow.
