Ref Number: 00461
One of the Isle of Wight's best known landmarks, being the only surviving windmill on the Island. Built around c.1700 and still with its original machinery intact.
Ref Number: 00461
Bembridge Windmill, often referred to as Knowle Mill, is a property classed as Grade I by the National Trust, located in Bembridge. The windmill in question represents the sole surviving windmill on the Island. Constructed around the year 1700 with stone as its primary material, this structure features a wooden cap that bears a resemblance to an inverted boat. It boasts a tower consisting of four stories and is equipped with four conventional sails.
The windmill’s use as a flour mill ceased in 1897, after which it transitioned exclusively to the grinding of cow feed. The aforementioned aim was effectively fulfilled until the year 1915, with the entire operation being solely reliant on wind power throughout this period.
The mill underwent restoration on two occasions, specifically in 1935 and 1959. Subsequently, in 1962, it came under the stewardship of the National Trust, which undertook another restoration effort and subsequently made it accessible to the general public. Bembridge Windmill has been depicted by a multitude of painters, among them the renowned painter Turner, who rendered a drawing of the windmill in the year 1795.
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