Eskdale Mill: A Living Heritage of Lakeland Water Power
Step back in time at Eskdale Mill, the Lake District’s last working water-powered corn mill with historic machinery and scenic riverside charm.
Eskdale Mill, located in the village of Boot near Holmrook, is a Grade II* listed watermill dating back to the 1500s. It is the last working water-powered corn mill in the Lake District National Park, featuring original double overshot waterwheels, historic milling machinery, and a modern hydro-electric wheel. The mill offers interactive exhibits, historic gardens, and a tranquil setting by Whillan Beck, providing a unique glimpse into traditional Lakeland rural life and water-powered industry.
A brief summary to Eskdale Mill
- Boot Mill, Holmrook, Boot, CA19 1TG, GB
- +441946723335
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays from Sunday to Thursday for a quieter experience and interactive guided tours.
- Combine your visit with a ride on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway for a scenic and historic journey.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the mill’s historic gardens alongside the tranquil Whillan Beck.
- Check the official website for seasonal opening hours and book tickets online to secure your visit.
- Don’t miss the modern hydro-electric wheel demonstrating sustainable energy alongside traditional milling.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Take the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway to Boot station, then enjoy a scenic 10-minute walk along well-marked paths to Eskdale Mill. The train ride offers picturesque views and is a popular, eco-friendly way to reach the mill.
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Car
Drive to Boot Mill via the A595 from Holmrook, allowing approximately 20-30 minutes from nearby towns. Be aware that local roads can be narrow and winding; parking is limited near the mill, so plan accordingly.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Holmrook and surrounding villages with Boot, with walking required from the nearest stop to Eskdale Mill. Service frequency varies seasonally, so check current timetables in advance.
Eskdale Mill location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Eskdale Mill
Historic Roots and Architectural Significance
Eskdale Mill traces its origins to at least 1547, with title deeds from 1737 confirming its long-standing presence in the Lake District. This Grade II* listed building is a rare survivor of traditional watermills, retaining much of its original structure and machinery. The mill complex includes two overshot waterwheels, a drying kiln, and a hydro-electric wheel that continues the legacy of harnessing water power. Surrounding the mill are historic stables, a stone packhorse bridge, and an 18th-century miller’s cottage, all contributing to the authentic historic atmosphere of the site.Working Machinery and Water Power Heritage
Eskdale Mill is remarkable for its operational original milling machinery, powered by two overshot waterwheels that demonstrate the ingenuity of pre-industrial engineering. The mill was last commercially active in the 1930s, producing animal feed for local farmers. Today, it serves as a living museum where visitors can witness the mechanics of corn milling and the evolution of water power technology, including a modern hydro-electric wheel that supplies electricity to the National Grid. This blend of historic and contemporary technology highlights the mill’s ongoing relationship with natural energy sources.Visitor Experience and Interactive Exhibitions
The mill offers a multi-sensory experience designed to engage visitors of all ages. Award-winning interactive exhibitions explain the milling process and the millers’ role in the local community, making it an educational destination for families and enthusiasts alike. The site’s commitment to accessibility and inclusiveness is reflected in its adherence to the 'Kids in Museums' manifesto, ensuring a welcoming environment for children and families. The historic gardens and grounds alongside the beck provide peaceful picnic spots and areas for reflection amidst the natural beauty of the Lake District.Setting and Natural Environment
Nestled beside the fast-flowing Whillan Beck at the edge of Boot village, Eskdale Mill is surrounded by the scenic landscapes of the Lake District. The mill’s location at the foot of moorland and near the Scafell range creates a dramatic backdrop, enhancing the visitor experience with panoramic views and the soothing sounds of flowing water. The natural setting is integral to the mill’s character, offering a tranquil retreat where history and nature intertwine.Preservation and Community Role
Managed by the Eskdale Mill & Heritage Trust, the mill is a testament to community effort in preserving Lakeland’s industrial heritage. Restoration projects, including a £1 million refurbishment, have ensured the mill’s machinery and buildings remain in excellent condition. The trust also supports volunteer programs and educational initiatives, fostering local engagement and sustaining the mill as a cultural landmark. The site’s dog-friendly policy and family-oriented facilities underline its role as a community hub.Seasonal Access and Practical Information
Eskdale Mill operates seasonally, primarily open from Sunday to Thursday, 10:30 am to 4:30 pm during the visitor season, with limited winter openings during holiday periods. Visitors are encouraged to book online for guaranteed entry, though ad-hoc visits may be possible in quieter times. The best access is via the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, with a short ten-minute walk from the station. Car visitors should plan carefully due to challenging local roads. The mill’s facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, and information boards to enhance the visitor experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
National Trust - Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore
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Lake District
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Friars Crag
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Queen Adelaide's Hill
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National Trust - Townend
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Windermere and Troutbeck
23.1 km
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Blackwell
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Holehird Gardens
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Stott Park Bobbin Mill
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Orrest Head Viewpoint
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Keswick Methodist Church
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Keswick War Memorial
24.1 km
A solemn Grade II listed monument honoring Keswick’s fallen heroes, set against the tranquil beauty of the Lake District.
National Trust - Fell Foot
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Discover the natural beauty of Fell Foot Park, where serene gardens meet breathtaking views of Lake Windermere, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Sir John Barrow Monument
25.0 km
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Start Of Cumbria Way
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Unmissable attractions to see
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
1.6 km
Discover Stanley Ghyll Waterfall’s breathtaking 60-foot cascade nestled in Eskdale’s lush, fern-filled ravine, a Lake District natural gem.
Eskdale
2.0 km
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Bird How
2.9 km
A remote, rustic Lake District cottage offering peaceful off-grid retreat and prime access to challenging hiking routes in Eskdale Valley.
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
4.2 km
Explore one of Britain’s most remote Roman forts perched high in the Lake District with stunning valley views and evocative ruins.
Scafell Pike
7.2 km
Explore Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, offering breathtaking views and thrilling hiking opportunities in the heart of the Lake District.
Wasdale Head
7.7 km
Explore England’s highest peaks and deepest lake from the tranquil, rugged heart of Wasdale Head in the Lake District.
Ritson's Force
8.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Ritson's Force, a charming waterfall nestled among England’s highest peaks in the Lake District.
Ravenglass Roman Bath House
10.2 km
Explore towering Roman ruins and ancient bathing culture at one of northern Britain’s best-preserved Roman sites in scenic Ravenglass.
Blea Tarn, Lake District National Park
11.8 km
A serene mountain tarn nestled between Langdale valleys, offering iconic views of the Langdale Pikes and tranquil natural beauty.
Honister Slate Mine
13.3 km
Explore England’s last working slate mine with thrilling adventures and rich heritage amid stunning Lake District landscapes.
Lake District National Park
13.6 km
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National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
13.8 km
Step aboard the restored Victorian Steam Yacht Gondola for a scenic and historic cruise on Coniston Water in England’s Lake District.
National Trust - Tarn Hows
15.2 km
Discover Tarn Hows, a serene National Trust tarn with accessible woodland walks and panoramic Lakeland views in the heart of the Lake District.
Colwith Force
15.3 km
Discover the serene multi-tiered waterfall of Colwith Force, a tranquil natural gem nestled in Ambleside’s lush woodland.
Galleny Force Waterfall
15.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
12.0 km
A welcoming climbers’ inn with traditional charm, hearty fare, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Great Langdale.
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
13.0 km
Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
15.4 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
The Jumble Room
17.1 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
17.4 km
A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.
Lucy's on a plate
20.2 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dodds Restaurant
20.2 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
20.2 km
Historic charm meets hearty British cuisine in the heart of Ambleside, with locally sourced dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
20.2 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
Lake Road Kitchen
20.2 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
The Samling Hotel
20.7 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Blue Smoke on the Bay
20.9 km
Experience exquisite wood-fired cuisine with stunning Lake Windermere views at Blue Smoke on the Bay, Low Wood Bay's stylish lakeside restaurant.
Windermere Restaurant (The W)
20.9 km
Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.
The Gaddum
21.2 km
Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.
Boardwalk Bar and Grill
22.6 km
Relax by Lake Windermere with delicious grilled dishes and panoramic views at Boardwalk Bar and Grill, Bowness-on-Windermere’s lakeside favorite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tesco Express
23.0 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Mountain Warehouse
23.0 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Love the Lakes Bowness
23.0 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
23.1 km
Discover gifts and memorabilia inspired by Beatrix Potter's beloved characters in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
23.1 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Lonsdale Galleries
23.1 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Original Man Shop
23.1 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
23.1 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Pretty Things
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Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Forget Me Not
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Booths, Windermere
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CONQUER Trading Post
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Love the Lakes Keswick
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Alternative
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Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
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Wainwrights' Inn
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The Talbot Bar
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The Lily Bar
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Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
The Vault
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Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
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Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
Boaters Bar
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Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
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The Lake View Bowness
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The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
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The Easy Breeze
22.9 km
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Hole in t' Wall
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Village Inn Bowness-On-Windermere
23.0 km
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Lago
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The Albert
23.0 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Wheelhouse Nightclub
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Windermere Social Club
23.6 km
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The Lounge C9
31.8 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
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Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
31.9 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The loose moose
44.5 km
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secret bridge
56.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
Secret Carlisle
58.9 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
59.1 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
59.2 km
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Black Box Music Institute
59.3 km
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The Moorcock Inn
62.5 km
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Peek A Booze
65.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.
Funny Girls
65.8 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
Sanuk Nightclub
65.8 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife at Sanuk Nightclub, a premier venue with six rooms and a lively house music scene on the iconic promenade.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Educational
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
