Houghton Mill & Waterclose Meadows
Working 18th-century watermill where traditional machinery still produces flour on the River Great Ouse.
A working 18th-century watermill on the River Great Ouse near Huntingdon, where traditional milling machinery still operates and produces flour. The site combines heritage preservation with outdoor recreation, featuring a riverside campsite, guided mill tours, a tea-room, and extensive walking and cycling trails through the Cambridgeshire countryside. Free entry for National Trust members; ideal for a day trip or longer stay exploring fenland landscapes and rural village life.
A brief summary to National Trust - Houghton Mill & Waterclose Meadows
- Mill St, Huntingdon, Houghton, PE28 2AZ, GB
- +441480301494
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Pre-book guided tours at least a few days in advance, especially for weekend visits. Tours run Wednesday to Saturday mornings and provide the most comprehensive understanding of the mill's machinery and history.
- Combine your mill visit with water activities by hiring a canoe or paddleboard from Houghton Boats to explore the River Great Ouse at a leisurely pace through meadows and villages.
- National Trust members receive free entry; non-members should check current admission fees. Consider purchasing a day pass or annual membership if visiting multiple National Trust properties in the region.
- Visit during the mill's operating season from March to October for the full experience of seeing the machinery in action and attending demonstrations.
- Allow at least 2–3 hours for a thorough visit including the mill tour and riverside walks. Longer stays enable exploration of the eight-mile Ouse Valley trail and nearby villages.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
From Huntingdon town centre, take the A1123 north toward St Ives for approximately 3 miles. Follow signs for Houghton village and Mill Street. The site has a main car park with 2 designated accessible spaces and visitor drop-off areas. Parking is included with entry. Journey time from Huntingdon is approximately 10–15 minutes. From Cambridge, take the A14 northwest toward Huntingdon, then follow the same route; total journey time is approximately 30–40 minutes.
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Public Transport
Local buses serve Houghton village, with connections to Huntingdon, St Ives, and Cambridge. Journey times vary by route; from Cambridge expect 45–60 minutes via Huntingdon. Check local timetables for current schedules, as service frequency varies seasonally. The village stop is within walking distance of the mill.
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Cycling
The site is accessible via the Ouse Valley Way and local cycling routes. From Huntingdon, the ride to Houghton is approximately 5–7 miles on quiet country roads and dedicated paths, taking 20–30 minutes depending on fitness level. Bike parking is available at the site. This is an excellent option for exploring the wider trail network from the mill.
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Walking
From Huntingdon town centre, a scenic riverside walk of approximately 5 miles follows the Great Ouse to Houghton, taking 90–120 minutes. The path is mostly level and passes through meadows and villages. This option is ideal for those wanting to experience the fenland landscape and arrive at the mill via the same route visitors have used for centuries.
National Trust - Houghton Mill & Waterclose Meadows location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about National Trust - Houghton Mill & Waterclose Meadows
A Living Monument to Milling Heritage
Houghton Mill stands as a remarkable testament to centuries of milling tradition on the River Great Ouse. Built in the 18th century, this three-storey working watermill represents over 1,000 years of continuous milling on this site. The mill's machinery remains fully functional, and visitors can observe the intricate system of gears, wheels, and mechanisms that transform grain into flour using water power. During the Victorian era, the mill became a regional industrial powerhouse, producing flour on a significant scale. Today, the National Trust maintains the mill in working order, and it continues to produce flour from wheat grown on the nearby Wimpole Estate, bridging past and present in a tangible way.Guided Tours and Interactive Experiences
The mill offers both guided and self-led visits, allowing flexibility for different visitor preferences. Guided tours, available Wednesday through Saturday mornings, are led by knowledgeable volunteers who share detailed insights into the milling process, the machinery's operation, and the site's fascinating history. Tours typically last around 90 minutes and include demonstrations of how grain is cleaned and processed. Self-led visits are available Wednesday through Saturday afternoons and all day Sunday, allowing visitors to explore the three floors at their own pace with information boards providing context. The ground floor is accessible, though the full tour experience involves some stairs. Pre-booking is recommended for guided tours, though drop-in visits are possible on less busy days.Riverside Setting and Water-Based Activities
The mill's location on the River Great Ouse creates a picturesque setting ideal for water enthusiasts. Visitors can bring their own paddleboards or boats, or hire canoes, rowing boats, and punts from Houghton Boats to explore the river's gentle waters. The waterway passes through meadows and charming villages, offering a peaceful perspective on the fenland landscape. Fishing is permitted with appropriate licenses. The riverside meadows surrounding the mill provide level, grassy terrain perfect for picnicking, relaxing, and observing wildlife, including nesting swans and waterfowl.Walking and Cycling Networks
Extensive trail networks radiate from the mill, catering to all fitness levels. A circular route connects Houghton Mill to Houghton Meadows, while an ambitious eight-mile trail winds through the Ouse Valley in search of lost mills, revealing the region's industrial heritage. Shorter, family-friendly routes are available, some suitable for balance bikes and scooters. Walking paths follow the riverbank or venture through woods and meadows, connecting to nearby villages including St Ives, Huntingdon, and Godmanchester. These trails showcase the distinctive fenland landscape with its open horizons and pastoral character.Facilities and Visitor Amenities
A riverside tea-room operates daily, serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals in a relaxed setting overlooking the water. The village of Houghton offers additional facilities, including pubs, cafes, and a community-run shop selling local produce. Accessible toilets are available in both the tea-room and mill. The site includes mobility parking and accessible routes, with a ramped entrance to the tea-room. Local bus services connect the village to St Ives, Huntingdon, and Cambridge, making the site accessible without a car.Gateway to National Trust Properties
Houghton Mill serves as an excellent base for exploring Cambridgeshire's National Trust estate. Free entry to all National Trust properties is included during stays at the adjacent Waterclose Meadows Campsite. Nearby attractions within 45 minutes by car include Wimpole Home Farm, Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, and Anglesey Abbey. Lyveden is reachable within an hour, and Woolsthorpe Manor, the home of Isaac Newton, lies slightly further afield. This concentration of heritage sites makes the location ideal for multi-day visits.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The George
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The Warren House
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English Heritage - Bushmead Priory
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Castle Park
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Westminster College
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Castle Mound: site of medieval Cambridge Castle
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Magdalene Bridge
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Jesus Lock
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Bridge of Sighs
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Newton's Apple Tree
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Rose Quarter Cambridge
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The Old Schools
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King's College Chapel
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Senate House Hill
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Map of Cambridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Manor, Hemingford Grey
1.5 km
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Hartford Mill Wacky Warehouse
1.6 km
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Godmanchester Nature Reserve
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King of the Belgians
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The Riverside Park
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Coneygear Park
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Riverside Park Old Bridge Viewpoint
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Huntingdon Castle Hills
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Chequers Shopping Centre
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Cambs Lock Antiques & Collectables
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Grosik
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Farm Hall
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Cromwell Museum
4.3 km
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The Duchess
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JOHNSONS OF OLD HURST | JOHNSONS ZOO
5.7 km
Discover a charming family farm and zoo with exotic animals, sustainable farming, and delicious local food near Huntingdon.
Essential places to dine
The Three Jolly Butchers
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Hartford Mill - Pub & Carvery
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The Cock
1.7 km
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The Barley Mow
2.7 km
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The White Hart
3.6 km
A beloved gastropub in Godmanchester offering hearty meals, generous portions, and a warm, lively atmosphere with excellent value.
The Grand Piano Cafe
3.7 km
Cozy breakfasts and warm hospitality blend perfectly at The Grand Piano Cafe in Godmanchester’s charming heart.
The Exhibition
3.8 km
Award-winning gastropub blending local ingredients, expert cooking, and genuine hospitality in charming Godmanchester.
Black Bull Godmanchester
3.9 km
Historic pub and vibrant event venue in Godmanchester, renowned for great food, live music, and welcoming atmosphere.
Samuel Pepys
4.0 km
A traditional Huntingdon pub serving hearty British classics, local ales, and a warm welcome on the High Street.
Local Cafe
4.1 km
Cozy and clean cafe in Huntingdon serving hearty breakfasts, quality coffee, and classic comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.
Olmo Lounge
4.2 km
A vibrant, inclusive dining spot on Huntingdon’s High Street offering diverse British and vegan-friendly cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Hill Ephesus Restaurant
4.4 km
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Bella Italia - Huntingdon
4.6 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm service combine in a family-friendly setting at Bella Italia Huntingdon.
Chi Huntingdon
4.6 km
Experience vibrant South East Asian flavors in a modern, elegant setting at Chi Huntingdon, a culinary highlight in Cambridgeshire’s Sapley area.
The Steak House
5.7 km
A classic British steakhouse in Old Hurst serving expertly cooked steaks in a warm, welcoming village setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Muse
3.2 km
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King James Retail Centre
3.6 km
Discover shopping bliss at King James Retail Centre, where a diverse range of stores awaits in the heart of Huntingdon.
Niche Comics Bookshop
4.0 km
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TK Maxx
4.1 km
Designer bargains and branded treasures await at TK Maxx Huntingdon—up to 60% off premium fashion, homeware, and gifts.
Next
4.1 km
Stylish fashion and homeware for the whole family in Huntingdon’s vibrant Chequers Court shopping hub.
Robert Goddard
4.2 km
A century-old fashion destination in Huntingdon, offering premium designer clothing and tailored pieces in a classic department-store setting.
Bonmarché
4.2 km
Affordable and stylish ladies' fashion at Bonmarché Huntingdon on High Street, offering comfort and variety for every occasion.
Cards Direct
4.2 km
Huntingdon’s go-to shop for quality British-made greeting cards, gifts, and party supplies at direct-from-factory prices.
Peacocks
4.2 km
Affordable fashion for men, women, and children at Peacocks Huntingdon, your go-to clothing store in St Germain Walk.
Skyes retro and gifts
4.2 km
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CeX
4.2 km
Affordable secondhand electronics and gaming essentials in the heart of Huntingdon's Chequers Court.
The Works
4.2 km
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St Benedicts Court
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A practical local shopping centre in Huntingdon offering essential retail and services with room to grow specialty offerings.
Scenic Skate Shop
4.3 km
Huntingdon’s friendly and expert skate shop offering quality gear, apparel, and a vibrant skateboarding community hub.
Bumbles Little Gifts
4.3 km
Discover unique, charming gifts in a cozy boutique nestled in the historic heart of Huntingdon’s St Mary’s Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Three Horseshoes
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The Taproom
3.2 km
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Oliver Cromwell
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Lord Protector
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The Old Bridge Hotel
4.0 km
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The Golden Knight
4.0 km
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Three Tuns
4.1 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Huntingdon’s High Street, offering lively atmosphere, classic charm, and a true taste of English pub culture.
Market Inn, Huntingdon
4.3 km
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The Falcon Tavern
4.4 km
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The Mad Cat Inn
7.7 km
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The Poacher
9.0 km
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The Cross Keys
11.0 km
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The White Lion
12.1 km
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The Fox Bar Hill
12.8 km
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The Jolly Sailor Ramsey
13.3 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Lounge
3.1 km
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Montagu Club
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MASH
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Vinyl Cambridge
21.5 km
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High Five
21.5 km
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Cambridge Lola Lo
21.6 km
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Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club
21.7 km
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Bar -OH
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Revolution Cambridge
21.8 km
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EBC Shop
21.9 km
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The Free Press
22.1 km
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Tall Trees
22.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Tall Trees, a cocktail bar and live music venue in Cambridge, perfect for unforgettable nights out.
The Tram Depot
22.2 km
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Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
22.2 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Rustic Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
