Lake District’s Last Water Mill Secures Approval for Crucial Repairs
Eskdale Corn Mill has won permission for a programme of essential conservation work. The mill is the Lake District’s last water-powered corn mill still in operation. Parts of the building date back to at least the early 1500s and it is Grade II* listed.
Planned work at the bakehouse
The main focus is the bakehouse at the southern end of the mill. A fixed window will be replaced with a bottom-hung, inward-opening hopper window. The new window is modelled on the hayloft’s hopper and will provide cross-ventilation. Improved airflow aims to reduce damp and mould that affect the room.
The bakehouse currently serves as a children’s dressing-up area. Oak lintels above the window and door are in poor condition. These lintels will be replaced with new oak beams to stabilise the stonework.
Roof and structural replacements
A key roof beam at the apex is rotted at both ends. Its failure has caused tiles to sink and damaged lime mortar and flashing. The rotten oak beam will be replaced with one of the same dimensions. The new beam will be set back and sealed into the west wall. Eskdale granite already on site will be used with lime mortar to prevent future water penetration.
Heritage, ownership and visitor numbers
The mill worked commercially until the 1930s. Cumberland County Council bought it in 1971. Ownership passed to Cumbria County Council in 1974. Repairs followed and the mill opened to the public in 1976.
In 2006 The Eskdale Mill and Heritage Trust, a registered charity, took over ownership. The trust restored the site as a visitor attraction. Since July 2019 the mill has welcomed about 28,000 visitors.
Assessments, support and consent
A 2016 archaeological building survey noted the mill’s high aesthetic and historic value. The report said conservation work would benefit the site. A Structural Appraisal from January 2022 also recommended restoration.
The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings praised the applicants’ plans for the bakehouse. Listed building consent was granted by the Lake District National Park Authority on April 7. The proposed works were led by Mr Steve Hemm of the Eskdale Mill & Heritage Trust.
The approval supports crucial repairs needed to protect this rare working mill. The planned interventions should reduce mould, stop water ingress, and prolong the mill’s life. Filmogaz.com will follow progress and report further updates.
