A Visit to Bursledon Windmill

by Ros & Dave Plunkett

On 23 August, the day of our visit, the weather was cloudy with very light winds and so the sails were not rotating.  We purchased our OAP concessionary tickets for (what we thought was) very good value at £2.00 each, watched the well directed ten minute video of the Mill and explored the static machinery on display, along with two hand querns and various notices and leaflets, before venturing outside to the little pond, which has its own descriptive display board enhancing the educational value.

We met Jo, the Mill Manager, and Gary the miller (who has worked there for 16 years).  Gary was largely trained by Gavin Bowie who was the miller at Bursledon for many years.

We were impressed by the standard of professionalism which Gary showed while we were in the Mill.  He obviously cares deeply about this Mill and he is proud of the three grades of wholemeal flour he produces.  The coarser of the three is not to my liking but the fine is equal to a quality stone ground, English bread flour, anywhere in Hampshire.

We left the Mill in good heart, knowing that it is in good hands and with the thought that, if we want our children and grandchildren to appreciate their amazing heritage, we need to encourage them to explore, investigate and be excited by these wonderful buildings and structures.

What more encouragement do we all need than Dave and Ros’ comments to give all the support we can.