Stott Park Bobbin Mill Review
Stott Park Bobbin Mill
Ulverston, Cumbria
Reviewed by Sarah-Kate Cantlie
Easter weekend is now complete and mine finished on a high with a visit to this English Heritage site. The Lake District was once dotted with many a bobbin mill when this sort of craft was in demand, however now this is the only one left and it’s rather special. During our visit the mill was working, the boiler was lit and the steam engine was purring away with the belts turning, allowing some of the old machines to whir away. It has to be said, it was a little like stepping back in time, which is even more possible with dressing up outfits available, so the children can get into the spirit of things too.
There are a number of things to see and do at the mill, there’s a tour, which takes roughly an hour and runs every hour, this was presented by two lovely ladies on the day we visited, Maggie and the mills engineer Tracy. These two certainly know the history of the mill and can answer all difficult questions as well as giving a real insight into what it would have been like working there prior to its closure in 1971.
Part of the mills ground can be toured at leisure and there is even a trail for the children to follow, collecting all the letters to a mystery word that once found and returned to the reception a prize is awarded. Even my 2 year old loved running between the trail points, in a mini orienteering style, but it is aimed at slightly older children, we had fun doing it and Ethan liked his prize, so win win.
There are some charming locally made picnic tables dotted around the place that are excellent for sitting at and enjoying any refreshments that you may bring with you, or just for a rest and to enjoy the view. The mill is located in one of England’s most beautiful places and a visit can be combined with any number of other local activities and will definitely hit the spot for fun whilst learning that little bit more of the local history and engineering from the1800’s. A nice place to visit come rain or shine.
Rating: 4/5
Prices (with Gift Aid): £4.50 child (5-15 years), £7.50 adult
For more information visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stott-park-bobbin-mill.
Stott Park Bobbin Mill, Finsthwaite, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 8AX | 01539 531087
