Grinding History-Heron Corn Mill
This historic gem is situated on the banks of the River Bela in Beetham near Milnthorpe.
There has been milling on or near the site of Heron Corn Mill for almost a thousand years.
The mill takes its name from the heronry which once existed on this site.
Heron Corn Mill ceased trading in 1955 but is now a working museum.
The corn mill has been skilfully restored with its machinery in full working order.
The mill is open to visitors and there are regular opportunities to see flour being milled and to purchase it.
Additionally, Heron Corn Mill demonstrates water-powered industry through the ages.
Historically, the mill was in the historic County of Westmorland, now Cumbria.
The natural limestone weir here provided an ideal site for water-powered industries.
Once inside the mill you can inspect the water-wheel and the apparatus of milling the corn.
The building is a Grade II listed 18th-century mill on the banks of the River Bela near Milnthorpe.
Additionally, in 1220 the Lord of the Manor gave the monks of St Marie’s York the right to grind their own corn.
Opposite the mill, a paper mill was established in 1788 along with a flax mill erected beside it in 1791.
Consequently, only the paper mill continues to be productive to this day.
Interestingly, a watermill existed here before 1096.
Herons are regular features of this landscape, and the corn mill is so named because of the heronry north of the mill which ceased to exist in 1726.
Beyond the mill’s historical significance, Heron Corn Mill offers a tranquil escape into nature.
The mill’s grounds provide a haven for wildlife, with herons gracefully gliding along the river and wildflowers adorning the meadows.
Visitors can stroll along the riverside paths, soak in the peaceful ambiance, and enjoy a picnic in the mill’s picturesque setting.
The mill is open Wednesday to Sunday 11:00am – 4:00pm.
If you are looking for a holiday cottage near Heron Corn Mill at Beetham near Milnthorpe enquire here.
