England's Oldest Working Windmill

Outwood Mill is the oldest working windmill in the country. It is still used to grind flour, though only on a small scale on special open days.

A post mill built in 1665, it has obviously been renovated and repaired over the years but is essentially true to the original design. Built on a round brick base, the rest of the structure is timber, about 40’ high with sails 60’ across.

I have toured round the mill many times and always find it moving and fascinating to see it working and hear the miller describe the process in loving detail.

I believe the mill is currently not open to the public while the owners look for someone to rent it and the adjoining house. It is worth checking the website as it has been through a few changes of ownership in recent years, with changes to the opening hours.

I really hope the owners find someone to care for it as well as it has been cared for in the last 300+ years. If not, I think that English Heritage should take it over, as it’s such an important landmark and monument.

The mill is surrounded by common land and woodland, and close to Outwood cricket club and several pubs, so it makes a good focal point for a walk or bike ride.