Wilton Windmill

Location

About

Wilton Windmill, located in the village of Wilton in Wiltshire, England, is a fascinating tourist attraction for those interested in the history of agriculture and the Industrial Revolution. It is one of the few working windmills in the country and has been preserved as a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the millers who once worked there.

The mill itself dates back to 1821 and is a five-story structure made of brick and timber. It was built to take advantage of the strong winds that blow across the hills of Wiltshire and was used to grind corn into flour for the local community. Over the years, the mill fell into disuse and disrepair until a group of volunteers began the long process of restoring it to its former glory.

Today, visitors to Wilton Windmill can take a guided tour of the mill and see how it works. The tour starts in the base of the mill, where the miller would have kept his flour sacks and tools. Visitors can then climb up to the next four floors, each of which has a different purpose in the milling process. The guide will explain how the mill works, from the mechanism that turns the sails to the grinding stones that produce the flour.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the tour is seeing the windmill in action. If the winds are strong enough, the miller will open up the sails and start the milling process. Visitors can watch as the sails turn and the grinding stones spin, producing a fine white flour that is used to make bread and other baked goods.

In addition to the windmill itself, there is a small museum on site that explains the history of milling in Wiltshire and the wider area. There are also displays of the tools and equipment used by the millers, as well as photographs and other artifacts from the mill's past.

For those looking for a more hands-on experience, Wilton Windmill also offers bread-making workshops where visitors can learn how to make their own bread using flour produced by the mill. These workshops are a great way to get a feel for the history of the mill and to take a little piece of it home with you.

Overall, Wilton Windmill is a wonderful tourist attraction that offers a unique insight into the history of agriculture and the Industrial Revolution. It is a great destination for families, history buffs, and anyone interested in seeing a working windmill up close. With its friendly staff, informative tours, and beautiful setting, it is definitely worth a visit.

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Things to do nearby

Wilton Windmill is a historical landmark located in the picturesque county of Wiltshire, England. This beautifully restored windmill is a popular tourist attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. While Wilton Windmill is certainly a must-see destination, there are plenty of other exciting places to explore in the area. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best places and things to do nearby Wilton Windmill.

1. Crofton Beam Engines

If you are interested in steam power, then Crofton Beam Engines is a must-visit attraction. Located just a short drive from Wilton Windmill, this historic site is home to two of the world's oldest working steam engines. You can take a guided tour of the engines and learn about their fascinating history.

2. Avebury Stone Circle

Just a 30-minute drive from Wilton Windmill is Avebury Stone Circle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This prehistoric stone circle is one of the largest and best-preserved in the world. You can take a guided tour or explore the site on your own, taking in the incredible atmosphere and sense of history.

3. Salisbury Cathedral

Salisbury Cathedral is a stunning medieval building located just 20 minutes from Wilton Windmill. This impressive cathedral is home to one of the world's oldest working clocks and is also the site of one of only four surviving copies of the Magna Carta. You can take a tour of the cathedral and admire the stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.

4. Stonehenge

No visit to Wiltshire would be complete without a trip to Stonehenge, one of the world's most famous ancient sites. Located just 45 minutes from Wilton Windmill, Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see attraction. You can take a guided tour of the site or explore on your own, marveling at the incredible stone monoliths and pondering their mysterious origins.

5. Longleat Safari Park

For something a bit more modern, why not head to Longleat Safari Park? Located just a 40-minute drive from Wilton Windmill, this wildlife park is home to a wide range of animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and monkeys. You can take a safari tour of the park or explore on foot, enjoying close encounters with some of the world's most fascinating creatures.

6. Stourhead

If you are a fan of gardens and stately homes, then Stourhead is the perfect destination for you. Located just 30 minutes from Wilton Windmill, this stunning National Trust property features beautiful gardens, a lake, and a magnificent Palladian mansion. You can take a guided tour of the house or explore the gardens on your own, enjoying the beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere.

In conclusion, Wilton Windmill is just one of many exciting destinations in the beautiful county of Wiltshire. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or wildlife, there is something for everyone in this wonderful part of England. So why not plan your trip today and discover all that Wiltshire has to offer?