Suffolk Windmills: Bardwell and Stanton

13 May 2012

It being National Mills Weekend, Stephen and his Mum had an afternoon visiting a few of the windmills of Suffolk. The outing started frustratingly, as the Drinkstone windmill, despite being listed on the National Mills website as being open this weekend, was distinctly shut - with no indication of how to reach it from the road nor anyone about. However, the other two we visited were much more satisfactory. So first, Bardwell...

The windmill was partly destroyed by the Great Storm of October 1987 when the cap and sails were lifted off the brick tower. After much fundraising and practical work, a new cap and fantail were fitted in 2004. Today was the first running of the mill with four sails, though two of them still need additional work.

One of the complete sails (left) and incomplete (top)

In addition to the windmill itself, there were produce stalls selling a variety of things including some delicious bread.

It was then on to the nearby village of Stanton...

Whereas at Bardwell, only the cap and sails rotate, with this type of "post" windmill, the whole body above the brick roundhouse rotates to face the wind.

Around the back from the previous photo, these wheels move around the brick roundhouse

The fantail catches the wind if it isn't directly behind the body of the windmill, and its rotation is transferred directly to the wheels. It was possible to see the slow movement.

The little step had to be moved several times to line it up with the main flight of stairs

Inside, the grinding stones.

Looking down on the fantail.

 We had a fascinating tour and explanation - definitely recommended.