So far this year, our member event programme has taken us to some brand new places, as well as some old favourites too. One of those new events was a visit to Pakenham Water Mill, which was hosted by Clare from our head office. Here’s what they got up to…
I had the pleasure of joining a group of members for a visit to the Pakenham Water Mill.
The mill is the oldest in Suffolk and sits on an underground spring at Pakenham Fen. A mill has stood producing flour on the site for almost 1,000 years and continues to do so even to this day.
We gathered outside in fantastic sunshine and following an introduction on the history of the mill we were split into four groups and went off on our adventures. Each group was guided by one of the volunteers who proudly give their time to keep this amazing Suffolk gem running. The mill is a big operation run by volunteers who are more than willing to enrich visitors’ knowledge on milling and Suffolk heritage.
The tour took in the beautiful millpond and grounds, where lots is being done to attract wildlife. We then headed into the mill itself where we learnt the whole process for producing flour, as well as being able to get close to the amazing water-wheel and machinery that drives the finer workings of the mill and the stones used for grinding the flour.
It was fascinating to see and learn that flour had been produced in this way and at this site for hundreds of years, it was like standing in a real piece of history.
After enjoying the tour, we all headed for the tearoom and enjoyed cakes and scones, which were very tasty and much appreciated.
The water mill is a great piece of history right on our doorstep and the enthusiasm of the volunteers shines through. It was a lovely way to spend some time, and a very informative and enjoyable morning was had by all.
