Eskdale Mill

Elmwood were appointed by The Eskdale Mill & Heritage Trust (EMHT) to deliver a building restoration and Exhibition fit out of the historic Eskdale Corn Mill in Cumbria, parts of which date from the early 16th Century.

The Grade II listed Mill and its outbuildings form the last operating water-powered mill in the Lake District. The Trust urgently needed to take action to stabilise the structure of the buildings, and associated machinery and artefacts, and hoped to also create a refreshed, engaging visitor experience to promote this well-preserved historical site.

The mill’s location, while outstandingly beautiful, presented us with some challenges for access.
At the end of a very long and narrow country road in the Eskdale Valley, the mill is one of a small huddle of buildings on the north side of the fast-flowing Whillan Beck just outside the village of Boot.

The original buildings and their setting create an idyllic rural atmosphere and many historical features and working parts of the mill still survive. Through the new visitor experience and Exhibition, the EMHT sought to tell the story of how alterations and improvements in technology over time can be seen in how the Mill developed and still operates today.

As specialist Museum & Heritage Fit Out contractors we were familiar with delivering exhibitions and visitor experiences at many locations similar to this historic site. Our knowledge and understanding informed us of the particular need for environmental sympathy during the project works and we put in place the careful planning and co-ordination necessary to protect this unique building.

Our works for the mill’s Fit Out included Joinery and Setworks, plus Graphics, Wayfinding, Audio Visual, Interactives and Showcases provided by our supply chain partners. We also ensured protection to existing building fabric, finished doorways, walls and floors and had materials for install delivered in compact component form for simple on-site assembly, minimising noise and dust.

The newly revived mill has been a hit with visitors even in its tucked-away location, offering as it does a unique and interactive new visitor experience.

“This place is really amazing to see, beautifully restored, great informative displays and stunning scenery.” – Tripadvisor review 2020