History
There was a mill on the site of Bromham Mill
since before the Domesday survey in 1086. For centuries, the enormous wheel was turned
only by the water of The Great River Ouse. In the 1920's a steam engine was installed to
provide extra power but by then, Water Mill technology had become obsolete. It has since
been renovated and visitors can once again watch flour milling at close quarters.
In the early years, the mill was a
self-sufficient community. The river not only power the machinery but was also full of
eels and other wildlife. There was a blacksmith's shop next door and pigs were reared on
apples from the orchard and sweepings of grain and flour. Traditionally millers made gear
teeth out of apple wood which was always available from the orchard.
Today, the Mill once again grinds flour, much as
it used to. Millers tell the same tall stories and the machinery creaks, groans and
splashes away. Since its restoration, the Mill has become a hub of activity where you can
join artists and crafts people to learn a new skill. Whether you choose to be creative or
quiet, the setting is inspirational and always has something to offer.
Crafty
Things, Messy Things, Edible Things and lots of Fun Things!
Limestone and timber buildings form a courtyard
which is the focal point for activities at Bromham Mill. A printed programme of seasonal
highlights is available each spring and is supplemented quarterly. Old favourites and lots
of new ones are offered, so return the slip and make sure you don't miss out.
Copies of the programme can be ordered at bromhmill@deed.bedfordshire.gov.uk
or by calling (01234) 824330.
Activities include:
- Milling and Bread Baking
- National Apple Day
- Science Squad
- Mask Making and Theatre
- BBC History 2000 baking
lessons
- Teddy Bears Picnic
The Galleries on the first and ground floors of
the Mill show varied programmes of art and craft work, one of which is usually
fabric-based. A selection of some of the best contemporary British craft and design is on
sale on the ground floor.
Fresh coffee and cakes are served overlooking the
River and our shop sells gifts, toys and books. More substantial snacks and meals can be
had at local pubs or further afield at the tea room in Harrold-Odell Country Park.
Beside
the Mill
Bromham Mill is set in seven acres of water
meadows, rich in bird and plant life. The river and mill provide an ideal setting for a
picnic. The enormous 26 arch Bromham Bridge spans the river alongside the Mill.
Further
Afield
As the car park and toilets are open each day,
the site is ideal as a starting point for walks into surrounding Parkland and further
afield, via a system of waymarked circular routes. For walks around the Ouse Valley
Villages, taking in some of the best views in Bedfordshire, a leaflet is available from
the Mill and libraries.
Mill Fans
A free leaflet is available listing other mills
in the region. Stevington Postmill is close by and, for those interested in mill buildings
or local history, is worth a visit.
Opening
Times
| Last admission half an hour before
closing. |
| March to October |
|
| Wed to Sat |
1 p.m. to 5 pm |
| Sun & Bank Holidays |
10.30 to 5pm |
| November
to February |
|
| Sundays |
1 p.m. to 5 p.m. |
Admission
Prices
| Adults / concessions |
£2.50 / £1.25 |
| Family Ticket |
£5 (up to 4 people, maximum 2 adults) |
| Season Ticket |
£7.50 / £4.50 (unlimited access during
open hours (for 12 months)) |
| Half
price admission on Weekdays and Saturdays. Activities take place at times which
may vary from the normal opening hours. Please see the listing
for details. Due to the nature of the Mill building, under 16s
must be accompanied by an adult. For more information Tel:
(01234) 824330 |
All groups are welcome, given a little notice!
Schools, particularly, are encouraged to discuss
their requirements with staff beforehand as Bromham Mill has lots to offer.
Group rates, information packs and booking forms
are available on request.
For
information, please call (01234) 824330
or email: bromhill@deed.bedfordshire.gov.uk
Access
Unfortunately, due to the nature of the building
access for people with limited mobility is very restricted. The first floor is only
accessible by a flight of stairs, although staff will gladly ensure access to the full
extent of the ground floor. If you would like more information, please telephone during
open hours.
Where
to find us
One mile from Bedford at
the west end of Bromham Bridge, signposted from the A428 Bedford to
Northampton road.
Bromham Mill, Bridge End,
Bromham, Bedford, MK43 8LP. Tel: (01234) 824330
Follow the brown waterwheel signs. The Mill is
situated alongside the River Bridge, just off the A428, Bedford to Northampton road. Buses
to and from Bedford stop nearby, regularly. Call the Mill for details or the local bus
station on (01604) 620077. The nearest train station is 3 miles away in Bedford.
|
