Gayle Mill (2025)

Built in 1784, this Grade II* Listed mill is the oldest unaltered mill building in the UK. The mill began life as a cotton mill driven by water power through a 22ft diameter waterwheel, which was replaced by a turbine that was installed in 1879. It was built by Williamson Brothers of Kendal, and still drives the line shaft which runs the Victorian machinery that fills the mill to this day. This turbine is the oldest working turbine in its original position.

Contacts

Address: Mill Lane Gayle Hawes Yorkshire DL8 3RZ

Telephone: 01969 629 348
Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Website: View website

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Open Days & Times

Thu 19, 26 Dec; Jan onwards. 1000-1600. Tours from 10am-3pm. Visit website for more details.

Facilities

Parking
Part disabled access

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A second turbine was installed in 1925 which generated the electricity for the mill and the surrounding area through the Hawes Electrical Company.

The third and final turbine was installed in 2006 and now generates electricity for the National Grid. This turbine marks the final stage in the Mill's Industrial Evolution as it is now a proud contributor to the drive for net-zero carbon emissions.

Soldiers from the Border Regiment and The Scots Guards were billeted on the top floor of the mill. There are the remains of the blackout screens which had to be installed around some of the windows.