Stott Park Bobbin Mill: The Last Working Lakeland Bobbin Mill
Explore the last working bobbin mill in the Lake District, where steam power and craftsmanship bring industrial history to life.
Stott Park Bobbin Mill, located in Lakeside near Ulverston, Cumbria, is the last surviving working bobbin mill in the Lake District. Dating back to 1835, it played a vital role in producing wooden bobbins essential for the Lancashire cotton industry during the Industrial Revolution. Today, it operates as a heritage site offering guided tours where visitors can witness traditional steam-powered machinery and learn about the mill’s industrial and social history.
A brief summary to Stott Park Bobbin Mill
- Colton Hill, Ulverston, Lakeside, LA12 8AX, GB
- +441539531087
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your guided tour in advance as the mill is open only on selected days and tours are limited.
- Wear sturdy footwear due to cobbled and uneven floors inside the mill.
- Be prepared for some stairs on the tour; staff can provide explanations if you cannot access the upper floor.
- Visit between April and October when the mill is open for guided tours.
- Combine your visit with exploring the scenic Lake District surroundings for a full day out.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus service from Ulverston town center to Lakeside, which takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run several times daily but check the schedule in advance. The stop is a short walk from the mill. Tickets cost around £3-£5 one way.
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Car
Driving from Ulverston town center to Stott Park Bobbin Mill takes about 10 minutes. Parking is available on site, including disabled parking in the lower car park. Note that the mill is open limited days, so verify opening times before your visit. Parking is free.
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Walking
For the adventurous, a scenic 45-minute walk from Ulverston town center to the mill follows quiet country lanes and footpaths. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some uneven surfaces near the mill.
Stott Park Bobbin 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 Stott Park Bobbin Mill
A Living Relic of Industrial Heritage
Stott Park Bobbin Mill stands as a remarkable testament to the Industrial Revolution’s impact on rural England. Established in 1835, it specialized in manufacturing wooden bobbins, which were crucial for the booming cotton spinning mills in Lancashire. The mill’s location in the Lake District, an area better known for its natural beauty than heavy industry, makes it a unique surviving example of industrial heritage in this region. It operated continuously until the mid-1970s, making it one of the last bobbin mills to close in England.Steam Power and Traditional Craftsmanship
The mill is powered by a fully operational steam engine, which drives the lathes and other machinery used to turn wood into bobbins. Visitors on guided tours can see these machines in action, providing a rare glimpse into the working conditions and technologies of the 19th and early 20th centuries. The steam-powered equipment and the skilled craftsmanship required to produce bobbins highlight the blend of industrial innovation and artisanal skill that defined the mill’s operation.Social History and Worker Stories
Beyond its mechanical marvels, Stott Park Bobbin Mill offers insights into the lives of the workers who kept the mill running. The tours often include stories about the mill’s workforce, which included men, women, and children, reflecting the social fabric of the era. The mill’s cobbled floors and uneven surfaces, along with the presence of stairs, evoke the physical environment of a working industrial site from the past.Preservation and Visitor Experience
Now managed by English Heritage, the mill is open by guided tour only on selected days from April to October. The site is well preserved, with many original features intact, allowing visitors to experience an authentic industrial setting. Disabled parking is available, though some areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues due to the building’s historic structure. Booking in advance is essential, as opening days are limited.Location and Surroundings
Situated in the peaceful Lakeside area near Ulverston, the mill is surrounded by the scenic landscapes of the Lake District. This juxtaposition of industrial heritage and natural beauty enriches the visitor experience, offering a quiet, contemplative atmosphere after exploring the bustling machinery and history inside the mill.Educational and Cultural Significance
Stott Park Bobbin Mill serves as an educational resource, illustrating the importance of the wooden bobbin industry to the wider textile economy of northern England. It also highlights the technological advancements of the Industrial Revolution and their effects on rural communities. The mill’s preservation helps keep alive the stories and skills of a bygone era, making it a valuable cultural landmark.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
12.7 km
Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
Rydal Cave
17.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and rich history of Rydal Cave, a hidden gem in the Lake District perfect for hiking and exploration.
Blea Tarn, Lake District National Park
18.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Blea Tarn in the Lake District, a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts amidst stunning landscapes.
Rydal Mount and Gardens
18.2 km
Visit Rydal Mount and Gardens, the historic home of poet William Wordsworth, and explore its stunning gardens and rich literary heritage.
Leighton Hall Estate
18.4 km
Discover the charm and history of Leighton Hall Estate, a captivating destination in Carnforth featuring stunning gardens and rich heritage.
Wordsworth Grasmere
19.1 km
Explore the enchanting world of William Wordsworth at Wordsworth Grasmere, a museum nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District.
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
19.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich literary history of Allan Bank and Grasmere, a must-visit destination in the heart of the Lake District.
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
20.3 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae, a remarkable fortress in the heart of the Lake District.
Lake District National Park
21.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning landscapes, charming villages, and endless outdoor adventures.
Furness Abbey
22.5 km
Discover Furness Abbey, a historical landmark in Barrow-in-Furness showcasing stunning monastic architecture and rich heritage amidst beautiful landscapes.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
22.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
Eskdale Mill
23.4 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
Stone Jetty
24.3 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Stone Jetty in Morecambe, a coastal gem perfect for relaxation and exploration.
The Clock Tower
24.4 km
Historic Elizabethan-style Clock Tower standing proudly on Morecambe’s seafront, symbolizing the town’s Victorian heritage and timeless charm.
Eric Morecambe Statue
24.5 km
Discover the charming Eric Morecambe Statue, a landmark celebrating British comedy and offering stunning views of Morecambe Bay.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lakes Aquarium
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant aquatic and terrestrial wildlife of the Lake District at Lakes Aquarium, nestled on the scenic shores of Windermere.
National Trust - Fell Foot
1.5 km
Discover lakeside calm, family fun, and historic charm at Fell Foot, Windermere’s welcoming National Trust park.
Windermere
3.5 km
Explore Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, where stunning landscapes, vibrant villages, and rich heritage create an unforgettable Lake District experience.
Grizedale
6.9 km
Explore Grizedale Forest’s blend of stunning Lake District scenery, captivating outdoor art, and thrilling outdoor adventures for all ages.
Go Ape Grizedale
6.9 km
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and soaring zip lines in the heart of Grizedale Forest, Lake District’s premier outdoor activity hub.
Blackwell
7.0 km
Explore Blackwell, a stunning Arts & Crafts house near Windermere, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship, historic charm, and breathtaking Lake District views.
National Trust - Hill Top
7.4 km
Beatrix Potter's beloved farmhouse, frozen in time and filled with the inspiration for her timeless children's tales.
National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House
7.4 km
Step into Beatrix Potter’s enchanting Lake District home, where her stories and inspirations come vividly to life in a timeless 17th-century farmhouse and garden.
National Trust - Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore
7.5 km
Discover panoramic Victorian views of Windermere from a charming lakeside folly with historic coloured glass and a welcoming café.
Lake District
8.9 km
Experience England’s largest lake with vibrant watersports, cultural treasures, and scenic beauty in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Hampsfell Hospice
9.2 km
Historic stone shelter atop Hampsfell with stunning 360° views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District fells.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
9.4 km
Step into the enchanting world of Beatrix Potter’s timeless tales in the heart of the Lake District with immersive exhibits and a charming garden.
The Wild Boar | Bar, Restaurant & Hotel
9.6 km
A luxurious Lake District inn blending rustic charm, gourmet dining, and tranquil woodland escapes near Kendal.
Cartmel
9.6 km
A tranquil Victorian seaside town by Morecambe Bay, blending coastal charm, historic elegance, and access to Cumbria’s natural beauty.
National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
10.8 km
Step aboard the restored Victorian Steam Yacht Gondola for a scenic and historic cruise on Coniston Water in England’s Lake District.
Essential places to dine
The Brown Horse Inn
7.0 km
A cozy and charming inn near Windermere offering hearty food, comfortable rooms, and a warm Lake District welcome.
The Ryebeck Hotel
7.7 km
Charming lakeside hotel with quirky style, fine dining, and stunning views over Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite
7.9 km
Historic country inn in Lyth Valley offering acclaimed local cuisine, cozy boutique rooms, and timeless Lake District charm.
Henrock
8.2 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern cuisine with tranquil garden views at Henrock, nestled in the luxurious Linthwaite House Hotel near Lake Windermere.
Boardwalk Bar and Grill
8.8 km
Relax by Lake Windermere with delicious grilled dishes and panoramic views at Boardwalk Bar and Grill, Bowness-on-Windermere’s lakeside favorite.
Lake View Garden Bar - Pub | Food | Live Music
9.1 km
Discover Lake View Garden Bar: A scenic pub offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music by beautiful Windermere.
The Lakeview Restaurant at Macdonald Old England Hotel
9.2 km
Modern British fine dining with stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells in a refined lakeside setting.
Porto Restaurant
9.3 km
Experience modern British cuisine with locally sourced flavors in a warm, inviting setting just steps from Lake Windermere.
BAHA Bowness - Bar | Restaurant | Live Music
9.3 km
Experience vibrant Asian BBQ, live music, and nightlife across three lively floors in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Magic Roundabout
9.3 km
A vibrant café and bar in Bowness-on-Windermere offering diverse British cuisine, inclusive menus, and a lively atmosphere from morning to late night.
L'Enclume
9.3 km
Experience Simon Rogan’s three Michelin-starred farm-to-table masterpiece in Cartmel, where seasonal British ingredients shine in innovative tasting menus.
The Flying Pig Pub
9.4 km
Experience hearty Lakeland hospitality and classic English fare in the welcoming atmosphere of The Flying Pig Pub, Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Westmorland Inn
9.6 km
Rustic charm and hearty dining just steps from Lake Windermere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Black Labrador
10.3 km
A cozy, dog-friendly country pub near Kendal serving exceptional local dishes in a warm, welcoming Lake District setting.
Hooked Seafood
10.9 km
Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Love the Lakes Bowness
9.2 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
Mountain Warehouse
9.3 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Tesco Express
9.3 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Lonsdale Galleries
9.3 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
9.4 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Herdy Bowness
9.4 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Pretty Things
9.5 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Original Man Shop
9.5 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Forget Me Not
10.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
Booths, Windermere
11.2 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Squirrel A store of buried treasure
13.0 km
Discover unique gifts and artisanal treasures in a charming converted pub at the heart of Ulverston’s Market Street.
Muse Boutique
13.0 km
Unique and affordable ladies' fashion boutique in the heart of Ulverston’s historic Market Street.
Pretty Things Boutique
13.1 km
Discover unique ladies’ fashion and personalized styling at Ulverston’s charming Pretty Things Boutique on King Street.
Elephant Yard Shopping
14.9 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Waterstones
15.0 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
8.2 km
Stylish gastropub at Windermere Marina Village with scenic lake views, fresh seasonal menus, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
Boaters Bar
8.7 km
Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
8.8 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Lake View Bowness
9.0 km
A welcoming lakeside pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering stunning views, hearty fare, and classic English charm.
The Arts Bar
9.2 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Village Inn Bowness-On-Windermere
9.2 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty British fare, live sports, and a spacious beer garden.
The Easy Breeze
9.2 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Lago
9.3 km
Lago is a lively bar in Bowness-on-Windermere known for its quality cocktails, sharing platters, and welcoming atmosphere near the heart of the Lake District.
The Fizzy Tarté
9.3 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
Hole in t' Wall
9.3 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Albert
9.3 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Wheatsheaf Inn, Brigsteer
10.9 km
A charming countryside pub and boutique inn in Brigsteer offering rustic comfort, excellent food, and warm hospitality near Kendal.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
11.1 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
11.1 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
11.1 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Wheelhouse Nightclub
8.8 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Windermere Social Club
10.6 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Lounge C9
25.6 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
25.6 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
25.6 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
44.3 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
secret bridge
51.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
Funny Girls
51.9 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
Sanuk Nightclub
52.0 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.
Club underground
52.1 km
Experience Blackpool’s authentic old-school basement club with vibrant music, friendly crowds, and late-night energy on Talbot Road.
Soul Suite
52.1 km
Experience the soulful heartbeat of Blackpool with classic tunes, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Soul Suite.
Popworld - Blackpool
52.2 km
Experience retro pop hits and vibrant party vibes at Popworld Blackpool, the iconic two-floor nightclub on the Promenade.
Trilogy Nightclub
52.2 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife across three floors of music, lights, and energy at Trilogy Nightclub.
The Tache Rock Club
52.3 km
Blackpool’s spirited rock nightclub offering authentic music, friendly vibes, and late-night energy in a casual setting.
Hush Nightclub
52.3 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant RnB and Afrobeats nightlife at Hush Nightclub, where music, cocktails, and atmosphere come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
