Denver Windmill: Norfolk’s Historic Tower Mill and Community Hub
Historic 1835 Norfolk tower mill restored to life, blending heritage tours with vibrant craft fairs and local hospitality.
Denver Windmill, a Grade II*-listed tower mill built in 1835 near Downham Market, Norfolk, is a remarkable example of traditional English milling. Struck by lightning in 1941, it has since been lovingly restored and now serves as a vibrant community venue featuring craft fairs, a tea room, and a pub. Visitors can explore its rich history, admire the impressive machinery, and enjoy local artisan markets in a charming rural setting.
A brief summary to Denver Windmill
- Denver Windmill, Sluice Rd, Downham Market, PE38 0EG, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Friday 10 am-10 pm
- Saturday 10 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekends or Sundays to join guided tours and explore the mill’s interior machinery.
- Check the schedule for craft fairs to browse unique handmade goods and local produce.
- Enjoy a refreshment break at the Blackstone Engine Bar or Violets Tea Room on site.
- Combine your visit with a walk to nearby Denver Sluice to learn about historic water management.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Car
Driving to Denver Windmill from Downham Market takes about 10–15 minutes via local roads. Ample parking is available on site free of charge, making it convenient for visitors. Note that rural roads may be narrow and less illuminated at night.
-
Bus
Local bus services connect Downham Market to nearby villages; however, direct public transport to Denver Windmill is limited. From Downham Market bus stops, a taxi or a 3 km walk on country lanes is needed. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £5.
-
Walking
For walkers, the windmill is an enjoyable 45-minute walk from Downham Market town center along quiet country lanes and footpaths. Terrain is mostly flat but may be muddy in wet weather, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Denver Windmill location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Denver Windmill
A Testament to Norfolk’s Milling Heritage
Denver Windmill stands as a proud emblem of Norfolk’s agricultural past. Constructed in 1835 to replace a storm-damaged post mill, this tower mill was designed to harness wind power to grind corn, a vital local industry for over a century. Its robust brick tower, crowned by a rotating cap weighing 10 tonnes, houses intricate cast iron machinery that once drove the grinding stones. The mill ceased operation in 1941 after a lightning strike damaged its sails, marking the end of its traditional milling era.Restoration and Revival
Thanks to a major Heritage Lottery Fund grant, Denver Windmill has been restored to working order, reviving its historic function of producing stone-ground flour. Visitors can embark on guided tours ascending through the mill’s floors—from the Sack Floor to the Dust Floor—witnessing the engineering marvels that controlled the mill’s operation. The visitor center enriches the experience with exhibits on windmills, corn milling, and the lives of mill workers, preserving the legacy of this demanding trade.A Vibrant Community Destination
Beyond its historic significance, Denver Windmill has evolved into a lively hub for local culture and commerce. The site hosts regular craft fairs showcasing handmade goods and local produce, fostering community spirit and supporting artisans. The Blackstone Engine Bar offers a cozy setting to enjoy craft ales and ciders, while Violets Tea Room delights guests with homemade treats including renowned sausage rolls. This blend of heritage and hospitality makes the windmill a favored stop for walkers and visitors exploring the Norfolk countryside.Surrounding Natural and Engineering Wonders
Just a mile from the mill lies Denver Sluice, a key civil engineering feat managing the drainage of the Great Ouse River. Interpretation boards detail its construction by engineer Sir John Rennie and its ongoing role in the landscape. The windmill’s rural setting offers scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat combined with cultural enrichment.Architectural and Historical Significance
Denver Windmill’s Grade II* listing reflects its architectural and historical importance. Its sturdy tower and traditional features exemplify 19th-century milling technology. The mill’s survival through storms, lightning, and decades of disuse speaks to its resilience and the community’s dedication to preserving Norfolk’s heritage. It remains one of the finest examples of a working English tower mill.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Visitors can explore the mill on guided tours available mainly on weekends and Sundays, with opening hours typically from 10am to 10pm during event days. The site includes amenities such as a shop selling fresh bread made from stone-ground flour, restrooms, and seating areas. Ample parking is available, making it accessible for day trips. The combination of history, artisan markets, and welcoming hospitality ensures a memorable visit for all ages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Customs House
18.9 km
Explore Customs House in King's Lynn, a historical gem revealing the rich maritime heritage and stunning architecture of this charming coastal town.
Sandringham Estate
28.9 km
Explore Sandringham Estate, a historical landmark in Norfolk, featuring exquisite gardens and rich royal history, perfect for all visitors.
Houghton Hall & Gardens Norfolk
33.2 km
Experience the beauty and history of Houghton Hall & Gardens in Norfolk, where stunning architecture meets exquisite gardens and delightful café experiences.
Trinity Bridge
37.5 km
A unique 14th-century three-way stone bridge in the heart of Crowland, once spanning two rivers, now a striking medieval monument in the town centre.
Visit The Broads
42.4 km
Your gateway to exploring the enchanting waterways, wildlife, and heritage of the Norfolk Broads National Park.
Coldham's Common
44.4 km
Explore the serene landscapes of Coldham's Common, a picturesque park in Cambridge, perfect for relaxation, outdoor activities, and wildlife observation.
The Centre for Computing History
44.5 km
Explore the evolution of technology and gaming at The Centre for Computing History, a must-see museum in Cambridge, offering hands-on exhibits and educational events.
Newnham Open Air Boat Club
44.6 km
Experience the charm of Cambridge's rowing culture at Newnham Open Air Boat Club, where scenic views and community spirit unite.
Jesus Lock
44.6 km
Historic Jesus Lock on the River Cam offers serene riverside charm and a unique glimpse into Cambridge's aquatic heritage.
Dinky door: Ride and Park
44.7 km
Discover the enchanting Dinky Doors at Jesus Green Lock House, a charming cultural landmark in the heart of Cambridge, blending history and whimsy.
Midsummer Common
44.7 km
Discover the tranquility of Midsummer Common, a stunning park in Cambridge, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and scenic riverside walks.
Jesus Green
44.8 km
Explore the beauty of Jesus Green in Cambridge, a lush park perfect for picnics, strolls, and family fun amidst picturesque riverside views.
Castle Park
44.8 km
Historic green space featuring the Norman Cambridge Castle Mound with panoramic city views and tranquil parkland near the city centre.
Lets Go Punting Cambridge
44.8 km
Experience the charm of Cambridge from the water with Lets Go Punting, offering serene boat tours past historic landmarks and lush landscapes.
Castle Mound
44.9 km
Experience the stunning views and rich history at Castle Mound, a must-visit historic site in the heart of Cambridge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oxburgh Estate
13.7 km
Discover Oxburgh Estate, a moated medieval manor where Catholic history, royal legacy, and Gothic revival architecture intertwine in tranquil Norfolk parkland.
National Trust - Peckover House and Garden
16.9 km
Discover the elegant Georgian home and serene Victorian gardens of the Quaker Peckover family in the heart of Wisbech.
RSPB Ouse Washes
20.3 km
Explore the UK’s largest washland sanctuary, a Fenland haven for thousands of wintering waterfowl and breeding waders amid tranquil floodplain landscapes.
Ely Museum
21.7 km
Step into Ely’s past in a historic gaol: explore the Fens’ story from prehistoric seas to prison cells and a dazzling Bronze Age gold torc.
Ely Cathedral
21.9 km
Discover Ely Cathedral’s stunning medieval architecture and iconic octagonal lantern tower, a masterpiece of English heritage and spiritual beauty.
The Stained Glass Museum
21.9 km
Discover the UK’s only museum dedicated to stained glass art, nestled within the historic Ely Cathedral’s breathtaking triforium.
Oliver Cromwell's House
22.0 km
Step into the historic home of Oliver Cromwell and experience the English Civil War era through immersive exhibits and interactive tours in Ely.
Waterside Antiques Centre
22.0 km
Explore East Anglia’s largest antiques centre set by Ely’s scenic riverside, boasting three floors of vintage treasures and timeless curiosities.
The Maltings
22.1 km
A historic riverside events venue in Ely, perfect for weddings, conferences, and live entertainment with views of the cathedral and River Great Ouse.
Jubilee Gardens
22.2 km
A peaceful riverside park in Ely featuring a bandstand, playground, and vibrant community events year-round.
Ely Castle Mound
22.2 km
Explore Ely Castle Mound’s ancient Norman earthworks, panoramic cathedral views, and peaceful parkland in the heart of historic Cambridgeshire.
Shabbytatt
22.7 km
Discover unique antiques and army surplus treasures in a warm, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of Swaffham.
Castle Rising
24.1 km
Explore one of England’s finest Norman castles, a royal residence and hunting lodge steeped in medieval history and surrounded by majestic earthworks.
Castle Acre Priory
24.9 km
Explore the majestic ruins of Castle Acre Priory, a tranquil and well-preserved medieval monastery nestled in the Norfolk countryside.
Castle Acre
25.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle and medieval village nestled in tranquil Norfolk countryside.
Essential places to dine
The Prince Albert
22.1 km
A charming traditional pub in Ely offering expertly crafted ales, fresh local food, and a welcoming atmosphere with a lively social calendar.
The Samphire Kitchen
24.1 km
Refined modern British dining with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a stylish Norfolk manor setting.
The Mulberry
32.2 km
Savor a refined blend of British and Italian cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere at The Mulberry, Thetford’s acclaimed dining gem.
The Old Bank
33.9 km
An intimate former bank turned acclaimed bistro, offering expertly crafted tasting menus and warm hospitality in Snettisham.
The Windmill
34.6 km
A welcoming traditional English pub in Somersham offering excellent food, attentive service, and a relaxed countryside atmosphere.
The Steak House
38.6 km
A classic British steakhouse in Old Hurst serving expertly cooked steaks in a warm, welcoming village setting.
The Crown Inn
39.9 km
Historic British gastropub in Broughton offering traditional classics and a warm, authentic country pub atmosphere.
The Hole In The Wall
43.1 km
Historic gastropub and cozy B&B in Little Wilbraham, blending rustic charm with exceptional British cuisine and warm hospitality.
Herbie's American Diner
43.2 km
Experience classic American diner charm and hearty comfort food in a lively, family-friendly setting just outside Cambridge.
Carriages of Cambridge
43.3 km
Step aboard Carriages of Cambridge for a charming vintage afternoon tea journey in beautifully restored railway carriages near Cambridge.
The Three Jolly Butchers
43.4 km
A welcoming village pub in Wyton offering classic British fare, real ales, and a spacious beer garden with rustic charm.
The Cock
43.6 km
A charming gastropub in Hemingford Grey offering modern British cuisine with a cosy atmosphere and family-friendly dining.
The Elm
43.8 km
A charming gastro pub in Abbots Ripton offering quality British cuisine in a historic, welcoming setting.
Pea Porridge
44.1 km
Discover Suffolk’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, Pea Porridge, serving hearty Moorish-inspired cuisine in a warm, intimate setting.
Hartford Mill - Pub & Carvery
44.1 km
A friendly marina-side pub serving fresh carvery and classic dishes daily in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Norfolk Boutique
17.7 km
Discover elegant ladies' fashion and personalized service in the charming village setting of Norfolk Boutique, East Winch.
The Vintage Peacock
33.6 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired gifts and stylish apparel in a cozy, artisan-focused boutique in the heart of Somersham.
Unique Gifts & Interiors
40.3 km
Boutique gift and interiors shop in Hunstanton offering luxury home styling, bespoke furniture, and expert design services.
La Muse
41.7 km
Chic independent boutique in St. Ives offering globally sourced ladies' fashions with a cool, stylish vibe.
Flints Finds
43.7 km
Discover authentic, sustainably sourced vintage clothing at Flints Finds, Hunstanton's premier destination for timeless style and eco-conscious fashion.
Cream Rose
43.7 km
Elegant ladies’ boutique in Fenstanton offering designer dresses and personalized service for special occasions in a relaxed atmosphere.
Romsey Barbers Ltd Cambridge
43.9 km
Classic cuts in Cambridge's Romsey: friendly barber shop delivering sharp fades and shaves with neighborhood warmth.
Victoria Store
44.5 km
Experience the convenience of Victoria Store in Cambridge, your one-stop shop for snacks, essentials, and local goods.
Bohemia Vintage & Lifestyle
44.5 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, retro homewares, and quirky collectibles at Bohemia Vintage & Lifestyle in the heart of Bury St Edmunds.
Beehive Centre
44.9 km
A dynamic shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse stores, dining, and free parking for a convenient retail experience.
The Grafton
44.9 km
Explore The Grafton, Cambridge's vibrant shopping center, featuring a diverse range of stores, dining options, and entertainment for every visitor.
Sense
45.0 km
Affordable finds in central Cambridge, supporting a national disability charity with every purchase.
The Works
45.0 km
Bargain-packed paradise of books, crafts, toys, and gifts on Cambridge's Fitzroy Street—creative treasures at unbeatable prices.
Jemporium Vintage
45.0 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage treasures from the 50s to the 90s in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant fashion scene.
Fridge
45.0 km
Discover timeless designer vintage fashion and expert service at Fridge, Magdalene Street’s iconic boutique in Cambridge.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The New Crown
33.5 km
A welcoming pub in Whittlesey offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Peterborough’s historic market town.
The Rose & Crown
34.0 km
A quintessential Norfolk village inn blending historic charm with modern dining, cozy rooms, and a welcoming pub atmosphere.
The Jolly Sailor Ramsey
35.5 km
Historic 400-year-old pub in Ramsey offering traditional British fare, quality ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Mad Cat Inn
35.8 km
A cozy traditional village pub in Pidley offering hearty roasts, friendly service, and authentic British charm.
The White Lion
36.4 km
A traditional, friendly pub in Bury offering classic ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Unique Bar Newmarket
38.1 km
Experience the lively vibes and weekend dance nights at Unique Bar, Newmarket’s hotspot for great drinks and energetic fun.
The Cross Keys
39.0 km
A classic British village pub in Upwood serving hearty seasonal dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Brisley Bell
40.3 km
Historic 17th-century Norfolk pub with award-winning food, boutique rooms, and expansive gardens blending tradition and modern comfort.
The Brewers Inn
40.3 km
A refined gastro pub with Indian-inspired dishes and cozy rooms, offering a peaceful retreat near Cambridge.
The Gin Trap Inn
40.4 km
A cozy Norfolk country pub and inn blending traditional charm with fine dining and comfortable, thoughtful accommodation.
The Wonky Donkey Micro Pub
41.1 km
Cozy micro pub in Peterborough offering a curated selection of real ales, bottled beers, and ciders in a friendly, intimate setting.
Embassy, Flares & Red Room Peterborough
41.1 km
Experience Peterborough’s vibrant nightlife at Embassy, Flares & Red Room — a dynamic blend of bar, nightclub, and lounge with energetic vibes and diverse music.
O'Neill'S Peterborough
41.2 km
Lively Irish pub and sports bar in Peterborough’s city center, perfect for watching live games and enjoying vibrant nightlife.
Bijou, Peterborough
41.2 km
Experience Peterborough’s award-winning Bijou Cocktail Bar—where vibrant cocktails, stylish ambiance, and community spirit come together.
Charters Bar
41.2 km
Experience authentic real ales and lively live music aboard a charming barge on Peterborough’s historic Town Bridge.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
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