Ashton Windmill
A historic 18th-century tower windmill in Somerset, featuring complete working machinery and offering scenic views. A photographer's delight.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
When the mill is open to visitors.
Ashton Windmill
Best Time
When the mill is open to visitors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 18th-century tower windmill in Somerset, featuring complete working machinery and offering scenic views. A photographer's delight.
"A picturesque gem offering stunning sunset views and a glimpse into working history."
🎯 Check Opening Hours First
Volunteers operate the mill; hours are limited. Always confirm before you go! :calendar:
🚗 Limited Parking Available
The lane is narrow, parking is scarce. Arrive early or be patient. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Working Mill
Interior
See the only windmill in Somerset with a complete set of working machinery. Witness history in motion!
Panoramic Somerset Views
From the mill
Enjoy stunning vistas over the Somerset Levels, Cheddar Gorge, and the Mendips.
Golden Hour & Sunset
Exterior
The windmill is a picturesque subject, especially bathed in the warm glow of sunset.
+2
Night Sky Photography
Exterior
A popular spot for astrophotography, capturing star trails and the night sky.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Times
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Opening Hours First
Volunteers operate the mill; hours are limited. Always confirm before you go! :calendar:
🚗 Limited Parking Available
The lane is narrow, parking is scarce. Arrive early or be patient. :car:
📸 Drone Friendly (with care)
Drones are permitted if safety regulations are followed. :camerawithflash:
💰 Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but donations help maintain this historic site. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Opening Hours First
Volunteers operate the mill; hours are limited. Always confirm before you go! :calendar:
🚗 Limited Parking Available
The lane is narrow, parking is scarce. Arrive early or be patient. :car:
📸 Drone Friendly (with care)
Drones are permitted if safety regulations are followed. :camerawithflash:
💰 Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but donations help maintain this historic site. :moneywithwings:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Even if closed, the exterior is beautiful and historical boards offer insights. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ashton Windmill for its picturesque setting, especially during sunset, and its historical significance as the only working mill of its kind in Somerset. The opportunity for astrophotography is a major draw. However, limited opening hours and scarce parking can be drawbacks for some.
"The mill is a typical Somerset tower mill, built of coarse colour-washed rubble, with a revolving cap, tailfan and four sails. The tower is 25 ft high, with walls 2 ft thick and sails 43 ft across. The last millstones were 3 ft 11 in in diameter. The mill could grind 880 lb of corn in an hour and was also used for grinding beans for cattle feed.
It is the only windmill in Somerset with a complete set of working machinery. The mill is opened two afternoons a week in summer by a group of local volunteers and is free to visit, although donations are welcome.
Unfortunately it is closed due to storm damage at the moment, but hopefully they will open it soon."
Pete / Hel
"Although it is closed, you can conveniently take photographs of the exterior. Parking is accessible, and it is located down a narrow lane in Somerset."
Stephen M Goldsmith
"I was camping in Somerset last year and am always on the lookout for windmills, waterfalls and the likes to visit.
To my delight this little gem was just up the road. When I arrived there were already a few visitors and the parking / layby was quite small so I waited a little while before I could park properly without blocking anybody in.
Inside the grounds there were 2 caretakers talking to visitors about the wind mill's history. I had a little wander around and sat in some shade for a moment before the other visitors left. I was able to take some photos then and was told I was allowed to fly my drone as long as kept within safety regulations.
Really glad I visited and would love to see it again either at sunset, sunrise or in different seasons."
Matt Keeling
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ashton Windmill is located down a narrow lane in Chapel Allerton, Somerset. The nearest major town is Wells. Access is primarily by car.
Yes, there is parking available for about five cars. However, the lane is narrow and parking can be limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Public transport options are limited due to its rural location. It's best accessed by car. Check local bus routes from Wells if you don't have a vehicle.
It's located down a narrow lane, so use GPS navigation. The picturesque setting makes it a worthwhile destination once you arrive.
While a specific postcode might not be widely advertised, searching for 'Ashton Windmill, Chapel Allerton, Somerset' on your GPS or mapping app should guide you there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Ashton Windmill is free. However, donations are gratefully accepted to help with its upkeep and maintenance.
The windmill is typically opened by local volunteers for two afternoons a week during the summer months. It's essential to check their current opening schedule before visiting.
It's usually open from Easter Sunday to mid-September, but only on specific afternoons. Always confirm the exact days and times.
Yes, even when closed, you can admire and photograph the exterior of the windmill. Historical information is often displayed on boards by the path.
No, admission is free. The site relies on donations from visitors to continue its operation and preservation.
📸 📸 Photography & Drone
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for photographers, especially during sunset and golden hour for its picturesque setting.
Yes, drone flying is permitted as long as you adhere to all safety regulations. It's a great location for aerial shots. +1
Sunset and golden hour offer beautiful lighting. It's also a renowned location for astrophotography, capturing star trails at night.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. Be mindful of other visitors and the volunteers operating the mill. Drone usage has specific safety regulations.
It's ideal for landscape, architectural, sunset, and astrophotography due to its unique structure and surrounding views.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can explore the exterior, and if open, see the complete set of working machinery inside. Enjoy the views over the Somerset Levels.
The description mentions a picnic table, suggesting it's a pleasant spot for a picnic in its grassy surroundings.
It's an 18th-century tower mill, the only one in Somerset with complete working machinery. It was used for grinding corn and cattle feed.
Information suggests a picnic table. Restroom facilities are not explicitly mentioned, so plan accordingly.
Yes, volunteers are often on-site to share its history, and historical information boards are usually available.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If the mill is open during your visit, the chance to see working machinery is a fantastic learning experience. Volunteers are often on hand to explain how it functions, making history come alive. It's a great way to introduce children to rural heritage and engineering in a hands-on, engaging way. Remember to check opening times in advance and be mindful of the limited parking.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2For night owls, the windmill is a renowned location for astrophotography. Capturing star trails and celestial phenomena against the silhouette of the mill provides truly unique and awe-inspiring images.
+1 Drone pilots will also find ample opportunity for stunning aerial views of the mill and its surrounding Somerset countryside. 🚶 Budget Travelers
The main cost associated with visiting will be transportation to the site. Parking is also free, though limited. This makes it an ideal destination for a scenic outing without a significant financial outlay, allowing you to enjoy the history and views of Somerset.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Ashton Windmill's Past
Today, the windmill is maintained and operated by a dedicated group of local volunteers. Their passion ensures that visitors can experience a piece of living history. While the mill is only open for a few hours on specific afternoons during the summer, its exterior is a beautiful sight year-round. The surrounding grassy area provides a peaceful spot to appreciate the structure and its historical significance.
Recent information indicates that the mill may have been closed due to storm damage, highlighting the ongoing need for preservation efforts. However, the community's commitment to keeping this landmark accessible, even if just for exterior viewing, is evident.
Capturing Ashton Windmill: Photography & Drone Insights
+2Beyond daylight, the windmill transforms into a celestial canvas. It's a highly sought-after spot for astrophotography, with photographers capturing mesmerizing star trails and comet trails against the silhouette of the mill. The clear Somerset skies provide an ideal backdrop for these long-exposure shots, turning a visit into a unique nocturnal adventure.
+1For those with a drone, Ashton Windmill offers fantastic aerial perspectives. The surrounding countryside and the mill's structure are ideal subjects for drone footage, providing a dynamic view of the landscape. Remember to always fly responsibly and adhere to safety regulations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit