Want to join me in making a difference?

I'm raising money to help this small charity replace its rotting lower waterwheel shaft. Due to normal wear and tear and getting close to its normal lifespan of 20 years, the lower shaft end has started to rot. This is making the metal bands that strap it together become loose. We're lucky to have mill-wrighting skills around us to keep the wheel turning until it is replaced. There is funding support until September 2027 to dismantle and re-fit the new shaft but we need to raise enough funds in the meantime to pay for the production of the new Oak shaft. We plan to use local materials and skills and are currently gaining quotes from craftspeople within Cumbria.

Dating back to the 1500's, Eskdale Mill is the last intact watermill in the Lake District. It hosts three overshot waterwheels, two of which drive historic grain milling equipment which is fascinating for visitors and locals alike to enjoy and learn from. The third waterwheel is a modern hydro-electric system and is connected to the National Grid through a Feed-in-Tariff scheme.

As a small independent charity, we are reliant on the generosity of others to help keep the wheels turning. We want to continue to keep up with the timely maintenance to ensure the mill doesn't start to go into decline. Places like this are so rare nowadays and so important for sharing our cultural heritage to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Children love the simple technologies from a time before electricity and internet and adults appreciate the use of water power, legacy of our forefathers and enhancements within the local environment.

We have dedicated a funding pot for production of the new oak shaft which is where your donation will go.

We appreciate you taking the time to read this and thank you in advance for your contribution to this cause.

Please visit the mill, if you can.