Wilton Windmill
A beautifully restored 1821 windmill offering historical insights, fresh flour, and scenic countryside walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For guided tours and cafe
Wilton Windmill
Best Time
For guided tours and cafe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored 1821 windmill offering historical insights, fresh flour, and scenic countryside walks.
"A wonderfully peaceful site with a fascinating history and beautiful surroundings."
Check Tour Times First
Tours are key to understanding the mill. Always check the website for schedules!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring the windmill and surrounding countryside.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Windmill
Main structure
Explore the 1821 Wessex windmill, learn its history, and see how it works.
Local Flour Production
Mill shop
Purchase freshly milled flour, a tangible taste of this historic site.
Scenic Countryside Walks
Surrounding fields and hills
Enjoy picturesque walks, including nearby Martinsell Hill.
Crop Circle Phenomenon
Adjacent fields
Witness the mysterious crop circles that have appeared nearby.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tours
Embrace the Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tour Times First
Tours are key to understanding the mill. Always check the website for schedules!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring the windmill and surrounding countryside.
Pack a Picnic
Plenty of picnic space available, with limited cafe options.
Explore Nearby Attractions
Combine with Martinsell Hill or Avebury for a full day out.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tour Times First
Tours are key to understanding the mill. Always check the website for schedules!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring the windmill and surrounding countryside.
Pack a Picnic
Plenty of picnic space available, with limited cafe options.
Explore Nearby Attractions
Combine with Martinsell Hill or Avebury for a full day out.
Look for Crop Circles
Keep an eye out for the intriguing patterns in nearby fields.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Wilton Windmill a fascinating and historically significant site, offering excellent value and a peaceful escape. The guided tours are highly praised for their informative and engaging nature, and the surrounding countryside is beautiful. Some visitors noted that not all sails were operational during their visit, and parking can be limited.
"Fascinating little place. You can visit it any time I believe, however, for tours you have to come at a certain time which is mentioned on the website. Nice little bit of history restored by a passionate individual. The scenery around the area is gorgeous and it's close to Martinsell hill which is worth a visit as it's quite close by. When looking it up on Google maps I saw what looks like crop circles in the field next door. Overall a lot of interesting places to see nearby too so would be good to make a day out of it! Have fun!"
Artur Kyselov
"We had a wonderful visit to Wilton Windmill. Our two young boys enjoyed the tour and learning how the windmill worked. Our volunteer guide Chris was very knowledgeable and engaging. The guide book for the windmill was very informative and is worth purchasing. It also has some activities for children in, including the trail for the tour. Personally I didn't enjoy walking on the wooden platform around the outside of the mill - I found the creaks unnerving, though it is apparently sound. It's a wonderfully peaceful site. In terms of facilities, there's limited parking at the roadside, one portaloo and a small café offering refreshments (and ice cream). Plenty of picnic space. We were here for about 2 hours in total."
Midas Gordon-Farleigh
"Went for the family fun day and was a brilliant day, lots of activities for children, birds of prey, beer and coffee tents, stallholders, plus tours of the windmills too, def a day to put in the diary!"
Emma Guilfoyle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wilton Windmill is located near Marlborough. Limited roadside parking is available. Many visitors arrive by car, and it's also a popular stop for cyclists.
Parking is limited and available at the roadside. Arrive early, especially on busy days, or consider public transport or cycling.
Information on public transport options can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus routes or consider a taxi service from nearby towns like Marlborough.
The grounds offer picnic areas, but access to the windmill interior and upper levels may be challenging due to its historic nature. Check with the site for specific accessibility details.
Many visitors enjoy walking and cycling routes that take in the windmill and the beautiful Wiltshire countryside.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds is often free, but guided tours inside the windmill may have a small charge or donation request. Check the official website for the most current information.
Opening hours, especially for interior tours and the cafe, vary seasonally. It's essential to consult the official Wilton Windmill website for up-to-date information.
For general access to the grounds, booking is usually not required. However, for specific events or guided tours, it's wise to check if advance booking is recommended or necessary.
Yes, guided tours are a highlight, offering detailed insights into the windmill's operation and history. These are typically available on specific days and times.
Absolutely! You can purchase flour produced directly from the windmill, a unique souvenir of your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the windmill, take guided tours, enjoy the surrounding countryside, and sometimes attend special events like family fun days.
Yes, children often enjoy the tours and learning about the windmill. Special activities and trails may be available during family fun days.
Facilities typically include limited parking, a small cafe offering refreshments, and a portaloo. Picnic areas are also available.
Drone usage may be restricted, especially near the windmill itself. Always check local regulations and site policies before flying.
Mysterious crop circles have been reported in fields adjacent to the windmill, adding an element of intrigue to the area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
A small cafe is usually on-site, offering refreshments and ice cream. It's a great spot to relax after exploring.
Yes, there are plenty of picnic spaces, making it an ideal spot to bring your own lunch and enjoy the scenery.
Nearby towns like Marlborough offer various dining options, from traditional pubs to cafes. The Swan Inn in Wilton is noted for its Ploughman's.
The cafe typically offers light refreshments, drinks, and ice cream, perfect for a casual stop.
While not a dedicated party venue, the picnic areas and open spaces could be suitable for informal gatherings. Check with the site for any specific event policies.
📸 📸 Photography
The windmill itself, especially against a scenic backdrop, is a prime subject. The surrounding countryside and any visible crop circles also make for great shots.
Drone usage is often restricted in sensitive areas. It's best to check with the site management or local authorities regarding drone photography policies.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for the windmill and surrounding landscape.
The windmill is situated on a hill, offering panoramic views. Exploring the surrounding paths can reveal various scenic vantage points.
Yes, the crop circles are a unique photographic subject. Be mindful of private property and any access restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for family fun days which often feature extra activities, games, and entertainment, making it a full day out. The open spaces are perfect for picnics, and the chance to see crop circles adds an element of wonder.
+1🚶♀️ Walkers and Cyclists
+1 Consider incorporating a visit into a longer Wilton Windmill walk or cycling tour. 📸 Photographers
The nearby crop circles are also a unique and intriguing photographic opportunity. +1 The surrounding hills offer panoramic views, perfect for landscape photography. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mechanics of Wilton Windmill
During guided tours, knowledgeable volunteers explain the process from wind capture to grain milling. You'll see the main shaft, which drives the great spur wheel, which in turn powers the runner stones that grind the grain. The winding mechanism in the cap allows the mill to be oriented correctly into the wind.
The windmill has undergone significant restoration, preserving its historical integrity. The passionate individuals involved ensure that this piece of industrial heritage continues to operate and educate visitors about traditional milling techniques.
Exploring the Surrounding Wiltshire Landscape
Adding to the mystique of the area are the crop circles that have periodically appeared in the fields near the windmill. These intricate patterns in the crops have fascinated observers for decades, adding an element of mystery to any visit.
+1For those interested in ancient history, the Avebury Stone Circle and other Neolithic sites are within reasonable driving distance, making Wilton Windmill a potential starting point for a broader exploration of Wiltshire's rich heritage.
Community and Events at Wilton Windmill
The windmill also hosts various events throughout the year, particularly during the summer months. These can include family fun days with activities, live music, falconry displays, and stalls selling local crafts and produce.
+1These events offer a lively atmosphere and a chance to experience the windmill in a festive setting, often attracting families and locals alike. Checking their schedule for these special occasions can enhance your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit