Aberfeldy Watermill facts for kids
The mill in 2006
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 Location in Perth and Kinross
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| Current status | Book shop, gallery, café |
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| Coordinates | 56°37′10″N 3°52′02″W / 56.619429°N 3.86721°W |
Quick facts for kids Construction |
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| Completed | 1826 |
| Water Power | |
| Diameter / width of water wheel | 15 feet (4.6 m) / |
The Aberfeldy Watermill is a historic building in Aberfeldy, a town in Perth and Kinross, Scotland. It was built in 1826 and is now a special type of protected building called a Category A listed building. This means it's very important to Scotland's history.
The mill has a huge water wheel that is 15 feet (4.6 m) (about 4.5 meters) across. This wheel used to be powered by water from the lower Urlar Burn. Today, the old mill has been given a new life. It is now a popular book shop, an art gallery, and a cozy café.
About the Aberfeldy Watermill
The Aberfeldy Watermill is a great example of how old buildings can be reused. It shows how important water power was in the past. Mills like this one were vital for grinding grain into flour. This flour was then used to make bread and other foods.
History and Restoration
The mill first opened in 1826. For many years, it helped the local community by grinding grain. Over time, as technology changed, the mill stopped working as it once did.
In the 1980s, a miller from Cupar in Fife helped to restore the mill. This was an important step in saving the building. It brought some of its original charm back.
Later, in 2004, the mill went through another big renovation. It was updated to become the place it is today. In 2005, the famous traveler and TV presenter Michael Palin officially opened it in its new form.
What it is Today
The Aberfeldy Watermill is now a popular spot for both locals and visitors. It has won several awards for its new role. In 2009, it was named the UK Independent Bookshop of the Year. This was a big achievement for a small bookshop.
In 2016, a well-known magazine called The New Yorker included it on its list of the "75 Greatest Bookstores in the World." This shows how special and unique the Aberfeldy Watermill has become. It's a place where you can explore books, enjoy art, and relax with a drink.
