There has been a mill on the site since the
14th century, set up by the monks of Kilwinning Abbey. The present mill was
erected in 1640 and rebuilt in 1880 after being damaged by fire. The Garnock
waters power a 6 metre diameter breast shot wheel that drives the French
millstones through cast iron gearing. Traditional methods of producing flour can
be traced and the wheel turns when possible.
The 3 storey grain store has been converted
to house an extensive collection of Ayrshire farming and domestic memorabilia
and there is an exhibition drawn from a collection of over 6000 costumes and
accessories ranging from 1775 to 1980. The top floor is a re-creation of the
mill owners house as it would have been in the 1880s. There are delightful walks
by the river, a coffee shop in a farmhouse kitchen setting and an antique shop
to complete your visit.
