Eskdale Mill

About

Eskdale Mill is a rare survival of a traditional watermill and drying kiln. It is the last remaining working water-powered corn mill in the Lake District National Park.

The mill is at the centre of a huddle of buildings at the north end of Boot village on the north side of the fast-flowing Whillan Beck, which flows from the moorland on Scafell. The buildings and their setting create an authentic historic atmosphere. Many original features and working parts survive. Alterations and improvements in technology over time are reflected in how the Mill developed.

The Mill is Grade II* listed. The stables and stone packhorse bridge over the Whillan Beck are both separately Grade II-listed. Other buildings also covered by listing include the 18th-century miller’s cottage, on the other side of the track onto the fells.

The best way to visit the mill is to use the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. The mill is a short (10 minute) walk from the station – just follow the signs.

If you choose to use a car, please plan your route carefully using a road map. Don’t rely on your SatNav directions which will suggest routes over the Wrynose and Hardknott Passes from Ambleside. These are very difficult even in good conditions. Equally scenic – but less terrifying routes – can be found via Ulpha and Seathwaite (from the South) or Egremont (from the North). Roads over the fells may be closed too, so please make sure you check local travel updates.

If you are using a car, there are a limited number of pay and display parking spaces at Dalegarth Station on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. There is also a free car park at Trough House Bridge to the south of Boot, a 20 minute walk away.

To find us from the Trough House Bridge car park retrace your steps north along the road. Cross over the River Esk bridge and turn right at the T-junction. Follow the road east past Dalegarth Station on your left. Follow the signs to the mill and after 500m turn left at the Brook House Inn.