Daniels Mill Trust

Daniels Mill Trust (charity number 1123673) is a UK-based charitable organization dedicated to the maintenance and preservation of Daniels Mill, a historic working watermill located in Eardington near Bridgnorth, Shropshire. The Trust operates the mill for public education and benefit, ensuring the conservation of this unique heritage site for future generations.

History and Location

Daniels Mill is a watermill that has remained virtually unaltered since the 18th century. It was owned by the same family for over 250 years before becoming a charitable trust. The mill is situated in an idyllic wooded valley in the Shropshire countryside, near the 19th-century viaduct that carries the Severn Valley Railway to Bridgnorth. The earliest known references to the mill date back to the late 15th century when it was known as "Donynges" or "Dunnings" Mill. Originally part of the Pitchford Estate owned by the Otteley family, the mill was likely operated by a journeyman miller during its early centuries.

Purpose and Activities

The primary objective of the Daniels Mill Trust is to maintain and preserve the watermill for the public’s education and enjoyment. As a fully working watermill, Daniels Mill demonstrates traditional milling processes, converting wheat into flour using heavy millstones in methods that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Visitors can observe the impressive waterwheel, the largest in England still powering a corn mill, in operation alongside scenic views of the surrounding countryside and the nearby Severn Valley Railway steam trains crossing the historic viaduct.

Visitor Experience

Daniels Mill is open to the public from Easter to the end of October, daily between 11am and 4pm. Visitors can experience guided tours, observe the milling process in action, and explore walking paths around the mill and adjacent old mill ruins. Amenities include a gift shop selling 100% wholemeal flour produced on site and a tearoom serving refreshments made with flour milled at Daniels Mill. The site offers a unique blend of historical education and picturesque rural charm, popular with tourists and locals alike.

Significance

Daniels Mill represents a valuable example of England’s industrial and agricultural heritage, preserved as a working artifact that links contemporary visitors to centuries of rural life and traditional craftsmanship. Its status as a listed historic building and the stewardship by the Daniels Mill Trust help ensure its continued operation and conservation for educational and cultural enrichment.

Charity Number: 1123673
Location: Eardington, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, England
Focus: Preservation and operation of Daniels Mill for public education and benefit

[1] https://www.danielsmill.co.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1123673&subid=0 [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4037071/governing-document [4] https://www.danielsmill.co.uk/about-daniels-mill/ [5] https://www.aboutbridgnorth.com/daniels-mill/