Britain's What's On Event Guide
Discover the restored watermill now generating hydro-electricity.
Heritage Open Day: Howsham Mill on the River Derwent is an 18th century watermill that ground corn for local farmers until it fell into disrepair. Today it generates hydro-electricity. The mill was built in 1755 by the new heir to the Howsham Estate as a folly or eye-catcher, but also to grind corn for local farmers. It replaced a previous mill, which is mentioned in the Domesday Book. It was abandoned in 1947 when such mills became redundant as farmers got electricity and could process their own grain. Restoration by the Renewable Heritage Trust started in 2004 and today it is fully restored. It has a new purpose fit for the 21st century of generating hydro-electricity via two Archimedes Screw turbines and the restored waterwheel. The mill is an education centre for primary school children and other educational purposes, welcoming around 1000 visitors a year.
Sunday 20 September
Howsham Mill, Howsham Hall Road, Howsham, York, North Yorkshire YO60 7PA
Sun 20 Sep:10.30am to 5pm; Free Entry.
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