Eling Tide Mill, Grade II* listed tide mill in Totton and Eling, England
Eling Tide Mill is a protected historic building in England that harnesses tidal flow from Eling Creek to power two separate waterwheels for grinding grain into flour. The mill operates through a system of gates and pools designed to capture and release tidal water to turn the machinery.
The current building dates to 1785, reconstructed after a storm damaged the original mill in the 1770s. Winchester College maintained ownership through the centuries, preserving the site as part of a long tradition of grain milling at this location.
The mill demonstrates how people historically used tidal forces to accomplish their daily work and produce food for local communities. Visitors can observe how deeply connected the site was to everyday life and the broader economic activities of the area.
Visiting is best on dry days, as the paths around the mill can become slippery after rain. Free parking is available across the toll bridge, and the mill is easily reached from the main road.
This is one of only two working tide mills remaining in Britain and represents a rare continuation of this nearly extinct technology. Visitors can watch nature power the machinery here, making it one of the few places where you can see this ancient craft technique in action.
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