Bembridge Windmill Isle of Wight
Isle of Wight's last windmill, built c. 1700, with original machinery across 4 floors. A historical gem with scenic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Bembridge Windmill Isle of Wight
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Isle of Wight's last windmill, built c. 1700, with original machinery across 4 floors. A historical gem with scenic views.
"A fascinating glimpse into history with engaging activities, though parking and accessibility are considerations."
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is scarce in a roadside layby. Arrive early or consider alternative transport.
🪜 Steep Stairs Inside
The windmill has steep, ladder-like stairs. Not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intact Milling Machinery
Inside the windmill
Explore four floors of original wooden machinery, a testament to historical engineering.
Panoramic Island Views
Upper floors and grounds
Enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and Bembridge village.
Family Activities
Ground floor and grounds
Engage with brass rubbing, a mud kitchen, and a 'find the mice' trail for kids.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Accessibility & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is scarce in a roadside layby. Arrive early or consider alternative transport.
🪜 Steep Stairs Inside
The windmill has steep, ladder-like stairs. Not suitable for those with mobility issues.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Grounds
Dogs on leads are welcome in the grounds, but only assistance dogs inside.
🐭 Kids' Mouse Hunt
A fun 'find the mice' activity on each floor keeps children entertained.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is scarce in a roadside layby. Arrive early or consider alternative transport.
🪜 Steep Stairs Inside
The windmill has steep, ladder-like stairs. Not suitable for those with mobility issues.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Grounds
Dogs on leads are welcome in the grounds, but only assistance dogs inside.
🐭 Kids' Mouse Hunt
A fun 'find the mice' activity on each floor keeps children entertained.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Great for photography, especially the exterior and surrounding landscape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Bembridge Windmill an interesting historical site, particularly for its well-preserved machinery and engaging children's activities. However, the limited parking and steep internal stairs are frequently mentioned drawbacks, and some find the entry fee steep for the size of the attraction.
"We were visiting the Isle of Wight and saw the windmill marked out on Google Maps as a Point of Interest. I wrongly presumed it was just a landmark that was owned by the National Trust. But it is more of an attraction, albeit a windmill in a field.
The parking was poor, no accessible parking and the attraction itself is not accessible unless you just walk/ wheel along the flat path and admire from outside (which is doable).
We were charged £7 per person entry fee. The lovely staff member advised this was for the upkeep. I couldn’t go up the windmill due to being disabled and having our dogs with us.
I found the landmark / attraction underwhelming if I’m honest and spent just 10 minutes there."
Samantha Rees
"I was pleasantly surprised by our visit!
For a national trust property it is on the small side and this is reflected in the £7 entrance fee (free for under 5), and a good place to go as a young family unless it's raining or very cold.
The staff were knowledgeable and friendly. They took into account who we had in our group (2 adults and a young child) and gave us a full briefing on what might appeal.
The lighthouse has 4 floors and each floor has a family of toy mice for the children to look out for. The stairs or rather ladders between the floor are very steep.
Outside there was brass rubbing, with paper and crayons provided. There was also a wonderful little mud kitchen. Finally there is the opportunity to make paper windmills, if you wish to do so.
Parking was limited to a layby and on a busy road. We also had a slight scare with a postal van driving up the road marked for no cars, so just keep an eye out."
Emily A
"It's a lovely windmill with great views. A small amount of parking in the layby is available and a short walk down a lane.
Small shop but could not justify paying £21 for the 3 of us to look inside the windmill. Plenty of opportunities to get photos outside of the property."
T B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bembridge Windmill is located near Bembridge village on the Isle of Wight. Access is primarily by car, though parking is very limited to a roadside layby. Visitors have noted that sat nav can sometimes lead them down pedestrian walkways, so be mindful of signage. Public transport options are less direct, so checking local bus routes is advisable if not driving.
Parking is extremely limited, consisting of a small layby on a bendy road. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak times, or consider alternative transport. Some visitors have found the 'no vehicles' sign easy to miss, so pay close attention.
Yes, there are lovely walks around Bembridge. The windmill itself is situated in a field, and the grounds are accessible via a short walk down a lane from the parking area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening times vary seasonally. It's best to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Entry fees apply, with a typical charge of around £7 per person. Children under 5 often get in free. This fee contributes to the upkeep of the historic site.
The grounds are accessible via a flat path, but the windmill interior has steep, ladder-like stairs across its four floors, making it inaccessible for those with mobility issues. Assistance dogs are permitted on the ground floor only.
While you can admire the windmill from the outside and enjoy the surrounding fields without paying an entry fee, access to the interior and its historical machinery requires a ticket.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can explore four floors showcasing original wooden milling machinery. A video on the ground floor provides context before you ascend. Children can enjoy a 'find the mice' activity on each level.
Yes, Bembridge Windmill offers several family-friendly activities. These include brass rubbing, a mud kitchen, making paper windmills, and the popular 'find the mice' trail inside the windmill.
Dogs on leads are welcome in the grounds and surrounding fields. However, only assistance dogs are permitted inside the windmill itself, and only on the ground floor.
Visitors can enjoy lovely views across the valley and the surrounding countryside from the upper floors of the windmill and its grounds.
Absolutely! The windmill's unique architecture and its picturesque setting make it a popular spot for photographers, both for exterior shots and the surrounding landscape. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there is a small shop on-site selling souvenirs and perhaps light refreshments. However, dedicated dining facilities are usually not available. Visitors often bring their own picnics to enjoy in the grounds.
The village of Bembridge offers several cafes and pubs where you can find food and drinks. It's advisable to check local listings for the most current options.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the windmill, especially with the sails in motion or against a scenic sky, is a prime photo opportunity. The surrounding fields and views also offer beautiful backdrops.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the specific drone policy for Bembridge Windmill or the National Trust before flying.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, often provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographing the windmill and its surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts
+1 The opportunity to see such a well-preserved example of historical engineering, dating back to around 1700, is a significant draw. +1 The site's connection to artists like J.M.W. Turner adds another layer of historical interest. +1 Be prepared for the steep internal stairs, which are part of the authentic experience, and consider watching the introductory video on the ground floor to fully appreciate the machinery. 🐶 Dog Owners
However, it's important to note that only assistance dogs are allowed inside the windmill itself, and even then, only on the ground floor. This means if you want to explore the interior machinery, you'll need to make arrangements for your dog. The picturesque setting makes it a lovely spot for a dog-friendly outing on the Isle of Wight. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Bembridge Windmill
+2 Its operational life ceased in 1913, but thankfully, most of its original wooden milling machinery remains intact across its four floors. This makes it a fascinating site for anyone interested in industrial heritage and the ingenuity of past generations. The windmill has also been a muse for artists, notably J.M.W. Turner, who captured its likeness in 1795. +1The windmill's structure is a testament to its era, featuring steep, ladder-like stairs that connect its four levels. Visitors can learn about its function and history through displays and a video presentation on the ground floor.
+1Beyond its historical significance, Bembridge Windmill offers a connection to the rural landscape of the island. Its presence evokes a bygone era of agricultural self-sufficiency and the vital role windmills played in daily life. Exploring its interior provides a unique perspective on the mechanics of milling, while the surrounding grounds offer a peaceful setting to appreciate its enduring presence.
Visiting Bembridge Windmill with Children
Outside the windmill, there are further opportunities for engagement. Children can enjoy brass rubbing, a dedicated mud kitchen, and even the chance to make their own paper windmills.
It's worth noting that while the windmill itself is a unique attraction, the overall experience is relatively compact. Families looking for a full day's entertainment might want to combine their visit with other nearby attractions on the Isle of Wight. However, for a focused historical and interactive outing, Bembridge Windmill provides a memorable experience for children.
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