National Mills Weekend in Kent

National Mills Weekend starts tomorrow and that means we’ve got something to celebrate!

Taking place on the 8^th and 9^th of May, National Mills Weekend is the perfect time to celebrate our milling heritage and appreciate what a fantastic part of our history they are!

With the weather looking dry and bright this weekend, it seems like the ideal time to get out and explore the local area, get some fresh air and soak up all of that history!

Have a gander below at just 5 of our favourite mills’ in Kent below!

 

Davison’s Mill, Stelling Minnis

Davison’s Mill dates back to 1866 and is the perfect start to our marvellous mills’ article!

Set in the beautiful village of Stelling Minnis, with a museum and even a cream tea service to enjoy when you visit.

This Grade One listed wooded smock mill is the most picturesque location for a relaxing day out.

 

Chillenden Windmill, Dover

Built in 1868, Chillenden Windmill is the last of its kind in Kent!

The open trestles are a unique feature and the building itself has been Grade II listed since 1958.

Unfortunately, due to essential works the mill is currently closed to the public and is not expected to open this year.

It’s definitely one to put on the future to-do list though!

 

Drapers Mill, Margate

Following the trend of mills built in the 1800s, this local treasure was born in 1845. That makes it the oldest so far!

Drapers Mill was originally one of three on-site and was worked solely by wind right up until 1916 when a gas engine was then installed.

The Mill is typically open from June – September on Sunday afternoons.

 

Herne Windmill, Herne Bay

Grade II listed and cared for by the wonderful Friends of Herne Bay, this mill is one in a long line of mills believed to have been built on site.

However, it looks like Drapers Mill might have some competition because this particular building dates back to 1789!

This traditional Kentish smock mill has a broad history with some mystery around who its founder actually was.

Now, windmills may not feel like the inspiration for a scandalous news story, but I’ll take my excitement where I can get it!

 

Stocks Mills, Tenterden

We’re ending this article with a bit of appreciation for Kent’s tallest post mill!

But, not only is it the tallest, it’s also the oldest of our chosen bunch, originating in 1781!

With a small museum that is run by an amazing team of volunteers, the mill is free to enter and open right up until September!

 

I think it can be easy to take certain aspects of our local area for granted, and that is exactly why raising awareness for things such as National Mills Weekend is so important!

Our history and heritage are a valued part of the community, I hope you’ll spend at least part of this weekend exploring. I know I will.

 

Don’t forget to tag us in your images if you do!

 

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