Newmills Corn & Flax Mills: A Step Back in Time
Explore Donegal's industrial past at Newmills Corn and Flax Mills, a beautifully preserved heritage site with a working waterwheel.
Newmills Corn and Flax Mills, located just outside Letterkenny, offers a captivating glimpse into Donegal's industrial past. This well-preserved complex showcases the workings of both a corn mill and a flax mill, industries that were once the backbone of Ulster's rural economy. Established in the early 19th century, Newmills expanded over time to include a public house, a forge, and a scutcher's cottage, creating a self-sufficient community. The oldest building on the site dates back 400 years. The corn mill, powered by one of the largest working waterwheels in Ireland, ground oats, barley, and imported maize. The flax mill processed flax into linen, a crucial product for the Ulster economy. In the early 1900s, Newmills even exported butter, bacon, and eggs to supply Sir Thomas Lipton's grocery empire. Visitors can witness the impressive waterwheel in action and tour the mill buildings to learn about the milling processes. The site also hosts exhibits and offers guided tours, providing insight into the lives of the workers and the importance of these industries to the region. Newmills is recognized as one of the best-preserved mill complexes in County Donegal and a unique monument to industrial archaeology.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing some walking around the mill complex.
- Check the opening times before you go, as they vary depending on the season.
- Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and workings of the mills.
- Download the social guide to prepare for your visit, especially useful for families and visitors with developmental and learning disabilities.
A brief summary to Newmills Corn & Flax Mill
- Churchill Road, Letterkenny, Milltown, Co. Donegal, IE
- +353749125115
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Driving
From Letterkenny town center, take the N56 road towards Derry. After approximately 2 km, exit onto the R250 towards Churchill Road. Follow the signs for Newmills Corn & Flax Mill. The mill is located on Churchill Road, about 1 km from the R250 junction. There is free parking available on-site.
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Public Transport
Take a Bus Eireann service from Letterkenny Bus Station towards Derry. Ask the driver to be dropped off at the nearest stop for Churchill Road. From there, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to Newmills Corn & Flax Mill. Check the current bus schedule for times.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Letterkenny. A taxi from Letterkenny town center to Newmills takes approximately 6 minutes and costs between €12-€16.
