Barry Mill: Scotland’s Historic Water-Powered Corn Mill
Explore one of Scotland’s last working watermills, where history, nature, and traditional milling come alive in a tranquil valley near Carnoustie.
Barry Mill, located in Barry Village near Carnoustie, is one of Scotland’s last operational watermills, showcasing traditional 19th-century milling powered by a 15-foot waterwheel. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, it offers guided tours, milling demonstrations, and peaceful woodland walks along the Barry Burn, making it a captivating heritage and nature destination.
A brief summary to Barry Mill
- Mill Rd, Carnoustie, Barry Village, DD7 7RJ, GB
- +441241856761
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Friday during the open season for a full milling demonstration led by a real miller.
- Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy the woodland walks along the Barry Burn and mill lade.
- Members of the National Trust for Scotland get free admission and parking.
- The mill’s ground floor is wheelchair accessible via a ramp, but upper floors require stairs.
- Plan your visit between September and October when the mill is open; grounds are accessible all year.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Carnoustie, the mill is approximately a 10-minute drive west via local roads. Free parking is available on-site for visitors, with a £5 fee for non-members. Note that road signs are recommended over sat-nav for accurate directions.
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Bus
Strathtay Buses route 73 serves Barry Village, about a half-mile walk from the mill. The bus connects Carnoustie, Dundee, and Arbroath with regular daily services. Check the Stagecoach website for current timetables and fares.
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Train
Carnoustie railway station is about 2 miles from Barry Mill, served by limited stops on the Dundee–Aberdeen route. From the station, a taxi or local bus can complete the journey. Train tickets vary but typically range from £5 to £15 depending on origin.
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Cycling
Cyclists can access Barry Mill via a 1-mile route from National Cycle Network Route 1. Bike racks are available on-site. The terrain is mostly flat, making it a pleasant ride through scenic countryside.
Barry Mill location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Barry Mill
A Living Testament to Scotland’s Industrial Heritage
Barry Mill stands as a remarkable example of Scotland’s rural industrial past. Rebuilt after a fire around 1814, this water-powered corn mill is probably the largest and finest of its kind still in operation. For nearly 800 years, the mill was central to the local community, producing oatmeal and animal feed, and providing employment until its closure in 1982. Today, it remains one of only a handful of mills still powered by water, preserving the ingenuity of traditional milling engineering.Experience the Milling Process Across Three Floors
Visitors can explore the mill’s three floors, each dedicated to different stages of the milling process. The meal floor, milling floor, and top floor reveal the physical demands of the miller’s work—from sacking and hoisting grain to grinding it between a pair of French burr millstones dating from 1880. The 15-foot waterwheel, visible and audible when in operation, powers the entire mechanism, offering a sensory glimpse into 19th-century technology and craftsmanship.Guided Tours and Demonstrations Bring History to Life
During the open season, especially on Fridays, special milling tours are conducted by knowledgeable millers who demonstrate the full milling process. These tours, lasting about an hour, provide engaging stories about the mill’s history, the evolution of trade from barter to monetary exchange, and even the origins of common phrases linked to milling. Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the mill’s role in Scotland’s agricultural and industrial development.Tranquil Natural Surroundings and Wildlife Haven
Set in a peaceful valley, Barry Mill is surrounded by beautiful woodland and waterside walks along the Barry Burn and mill lade. These grounds, open year-round from dawn until dusk, offer ideal spots for picnicking and wildlife watching. Bird species such as dippers, kingfishers, herons, tawny owls, and pipistrelle bats inhabit the area, enhancing the serene atmosphere and connecting visitors with Scotland’s natural heritage.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
The mill provides amenities including an accessible toilet, bike racks, and a shop selling teas, coffees, snacks, and gifts. Parking is free for National Trust members or £5 for others. Wheelchair access is available to the ground and lower floors via a ramp, though the first floor requires stairs. Dogs are welcome if kept under control, and the grounds feature grass paths suitable for gentle walks.Seasonal Opening and Entry Information
Barry Mill is open to visitors from September to late October, Thursday through Sunday, between 10:30 AM and 4:00 PM. Outside this period, the mill itself is closed, but the grounds remain accessible year-round. Admission prices are £9.50 for adults, £8.50 for concessions, with family and one-adult family tickets available. National Trust members enjoy free entry. The mill participates in ScotRail’s 2-for-1 initiative, allowing two adults entry for the price of one with a valid rail ticket and voucher.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Barnhill Rock Garden
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Broughty Ferry Nature Reserve
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Broughty Castle Museum
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The Fort
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The Ship Inn & Waterfront Restaurant
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Asda Arbroath Supermarket
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly