Hardley Drainage Mill

Hardley mill was built by Ludham millwright Daniel England in 1874 for Sir Thomas Proctor Beauchamp of Langley Hall. 

It was built beside the River Yare to drain the neighbouring marshes.  It was in operation until 1950, when it was badly damaged and replaced with an electric drainage pump.

Volunteers began work to restore the derelict mill in 1991.  Structural work on the tower was completed in 2005, with a cap and sails added in 2009.

The internal workings were completed in 2013, and the mill began pumping water under sail power for the first time in over 70 years.

A visitor centre and riverside moorings were also built as part of the restoration project.

Location

Grid reference: TG 387 024

Access is via the Wherryman's Way footpath. There is no direct vehicle access to the mill or visitor centre - the nearest car park is at Hardley Staithe.

Opening times

For details of open days and events, visit the Hardley Mill website.

Image of Hardley Drainage Mill