Bunbury Mill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bunbury Mill |
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Bunbury Mill from the southwest
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| OS grid reference | SJ 573 581 |
| Built | 1844 |
| Governing body | Bunbury Watermill Trust |
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Listed Building – Grade II
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| Designated | 15 February 1982 |
| Reference no. | 1138624 |
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Bunbury Mill is an old watermill found just east of Bunbury village in Cheshire, England. For many years, it helped grind corn and make animal feed. After almost being torn down, it was saved and now works as a museum. It's a special building, protected as a Grade II listed building by Historic England. This means it's an important historical site.
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What is Bunbury Mill's History?
There has been a mill on this spot for a very long time. Records show a corn mill here as far back as 1290. The building you see today was built around 1844. It replaced an older mill that was destroyed by fire.
How the Mill Changed Over Time
During the 1900s, Bunbury Mill mostly made food for animals. It also still produced some flour for people.
In 1960, the mill was damaged by a flood. It cost too much to fix, and fewer people needed its products. So, the mill had to close down. The land was then bought by the local council. They planned to use it for a water treatment plant.
How Bunbury Mill Was Saved
By 1966, there were plans to knock down the mill building. But local people really wanted to save it. They started a campaign to have the mill repaired. They suggested it could be part of a project to create jobs.
Their efforts worked! The mill was fixed up and working again by 1977. A water company then took over the mill. They reopened it as a working museum for everyone to visit.
In 1999, a classroom and new toilets were added. This made it even better for school groups and visitors interested in history.
The Mill Today: A Community Effort
In 2010, the water company closed the mill again due to money problems. But volunteers stepped in to look after the grounds and machinery.
A group called the Bunbury Watermill Trust was formed. In April 2012, the mill was given to this Trust. They reopened it to visitors, making sure its history could still be shared. Another group, "Friends of Bunbury Mill," helps support the Trust's work.
What Does Bunbury Mill Look Like?
The mill is built on a sloped piece of land. From the road, you only see one floor. But at the back, there are two floors. It is made from red bricks and has a roof covered in slate.
Key Features of the Building
On the side facing the road (the south side), there is a raised door. This door was used to bring goods into the mill. It sits under a small pointed roof section called a gable.
The sides of the mill (west and east) also have gables. The west side has three windows. On the north side, you'll find an entrance door and other openings.
The mill pond is located to the south of the building. The mill stream, which powered the mill, flows to the east.
Visiting Bunbury Mill: Access and Facilities
Bunbury Mill welcomes visitors at certain times. You can check their advertised hours to plan your trip.
What Can You Do at the Mill?
- Take a tour of the working mill to see how it operates.
- Explore the mill pond and a special wildlife pool.
- Enjoy the 2 acres of grounds around the mill.
Available Facilities
- There is a picnic area where you can enjoy your lunch.
- A visitor centre offers a café for refreshments.
- Public toilets are also available on site.
See also
- Listed buildings in Bunbury, Cheshire
- List of museums in Cheshire
