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New Hall Mill, a Grade 2 listed building, is one of only two
water mills still surviving in the Birmingham area. The Mill and
its meadow field are privately owned and managed by the New Hall
Water Mill Preservation Trust, Registered Charity No. 502226.
Although surrounded by but not part of the New Hall Valley Country
Park, the Mill is only open to the general public on specific
Open Days, or by prior arrangement.
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Now restored to a working condition, New Hall Mill is located
off Wylde Green Road, Walmley, Sutton Coldfield, in the West Midlands
area of central England. It is a significant local example of
our industrial heritage and has been described as 'Sutton's little
gem'.
The present structure dates from the 18th century, although some
parts are much older. In the past the mill had two internal waterwheels
but now, after rebuilding, the power required to drive the present
two pairs of millstones is derived from a single external overshot
waterwheel, with most other items of the various milling machinery
being powered by a Ruston Hornby diesel engine. A Diagram
of the Mill shows the major items of the milling machinery
that are in use during Open Days.
The Friends of New Hall Mill maintain
the Mill in a working condition and operate it during the regular
Open Days. Visitors are then able to explore
the mill at their own pace to watch the wheat being milled into
flour using water power and mill stones in the traditional manner.
They can also explore the Cartshed and it's contents, visit 'Auntie
Wainwrights' to hunt for a bargain, take a walk around the
Miller's Garden, the Mill Meadow with the Wild Flowers, Jubilee
Hedge and the Tree Trail, or the small Woodland Walk. Afterwards
a visit to the Tea Room can offer a
selection of cakes, snacks and hot drinks. Cool drinks and ice-creams
are available from the Exhibition and Sales
Room. Seating is available outside at picnic tables or inside
in poorer weather. Toilets, including a 'disabled' one, are located
in the same building.
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