Reigate Heath Windmill

Reigate Heath Windmill is a black wooden post mill with four double patent sails mounted on a cast-iron shaft, standing on a single-story roundhouse base. The upper section houses the original milling mechanisms, while the lower roundhouse contains the chapel.

The mill was built in 1765 and ground grain until 1862, when milling operations ceased. Subsequently, the structure was repurposed as a religious space, a role it has maintained ever since.

The roundhouse below the mill was adapted into St Cross Chapel in 1880 and now serves as a place for worship. This transformation reflects how communities repurposed working buildings for new spiritual purposes.

Access to the interior requires obtaining a key from the nearby golf club, and a visit should be arranged in advance. Planning ahead ensures someone is available to show you the upper milling section properly.

This is the only windmill in the world that operates as an authorized church, offering a rare combination of industrial heritage and active worship. The dual purpose is entirely unique among milling structures everywhere.

Location: Reigate and Banstead

GPS coordinates: 51.23620,-0.23329

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:03