Outwood Windmill

The Outwood Windmill is Britain's oldest working windmill, built in 1665 by Thomas Budgen, a miller from Nutfield in Surrey. This post mill has been in operation for over 350 years, making it an exceptional example of early English milling technology.

Architecture and Construction

The Outwood Windmill features a traditional post mill design, characteristic of the period in which it was built. The tower is constructed from local stone, with a wooden frame supporting the sails. The windmill's architecture reflects its purpose as a grain mill, with a single sail and a grinding stone housed within.

Original Purpose

As a post mill, the Outwood Windmill was designed to harness the power of the wind to grind grain into flour. This type of mill was well-suited to the rural landscape of Surrey, where it could be easily accessed and maintained.

Current Status and Use

The Outwood Windmill is currently a working museum, open to the public for guided tours. Visitors can learn about its history and operation, as well as see the windmill in action on windy days.

Location and Setting

The Outwood Windmill is situated on Gayhouse Lane in Outwood, Surrey, surrounded by rolling countryside and farmland. The windmill's location allows it to take advantage of the prevailing westerly winds, making it an ideal spot for milling grain.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

The Outwood Windmill is a Grade I listed building, recognized for its exceptional architectural and historical significance. Efforts have been made to preserve the windmill and ensure its continued operation as a working museum.

Visiting Information

The Outwood Windmill is open to the public on guided tours during certain times of the year. Visitors can contact the local tourist information office for more information on visiting hours and availability.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

The Outwood Windmill has played an important role in the history of milling in England, with Thomas Budgen's innovative design influencing the development of post mills throughout the country.

• The Outwood Windmill is Britain's oldest working windmill, built in 1665 by Thomas Budgen, a miller from Nutfield in Surrey. This post mill has been in operation for over 350 years, making it an exceptional example of early English milling technology.
• The Outwood Windmill features a traditional post mill design, characteristic of the period in which it was built. The tower is constructed from local stone, with a wooden frame supporting the sails. The windmill's architecture reflects its purpose as a grain mill, with a single sail and a grinding stone housed within.
• As a post mill, the Outwood Windmill was designed to harness the power of the wind to grind grain into flour. This type of mill was well-suited to the rural landscape of Surrey, where it could be easily accessed and maintained.
• The Outwood Windmill is currently a working museum, open to the public for guided tours. Visitors can learn about its history and operation, as well as see the windmill in action on windy days.
• The Outwood Windmill is situated on Gayhouse Lane in Outwood, Surrey, surrounded by rolling countryside and farmland. The windmill's location allows it to take advantage of the prevailing westerly winds, making it an ideal spot for milling grain.
• The Outwood Windmill is a Grade I listed building, recognized for its exceptional architectural and historical significance. Efforts have been made to preserve the windmill and ensure its continued operation as a working museum.
• The Outwood Windmill is open to the public on guided tours during certain times of the year. Visitors can contact the local tourist information office for more information on visiting hours and availability.
• The Outwood Windmill has played an important role in the history of milling in England, with Thomas Budgen's innovative design influencing the development of post mills throughout the country.