Old Mill of Guilford - Japan Old water wheel; Odawara, Japan
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Old Mill of Guilford

4.8
·82 reviews·Oak Ridge, United States

A historic 1767 working gristmill offering authentic stone-ground grains, mixes, and local treats. A taste of North Carolina heritage!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed shopping

CrowdLow
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Old Mill of Guilford - Japan Old water wheel; Odawara, Japan

Old Mill of Guilford

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed shopping

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 1767 working gristmill offering authentic stone-ground grains, mixes, and local treats. A taste of North Carolina heritage!

4.8
(82 reviews)

"A charming gem that's been grinding grains for over 250 years, offering delicious products and a step back in time."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛍️ Shop Local Goodies

Stock up on stone-ground cornmeal, grits, pancake mixes, jams, and more. Great for gifts or your own pantry!

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture the historic water wheel and charming mill building. The grounds offer lovely scenic views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Gristmill

The Historic Gristmill

Main Mill Building

Witness a working 18th-century gristmill, grinding grains just as it has for over 250 years. A true step back in time!

Stone-Ground Products

Stone-Ground Products

Mill Store

Take home delicious, all-natural stone-ground cornmeal, grits, pancake mixes, and more. Perfect for baking!

Scenic Grounds

Scenic Grounds

Surrounding Area

Enjoy a peaceful walk around the mill and Beaver Creek. The picturesque setting is ideal for photos, especially in autumn.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the Old Mill

This historic gristmill, operating since 1767, offers a unique glimpse into North Carolina's past. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons like the holidays. Consider checking their website for any special events or seasonal offerings before you go.

What to Expect at the Mill

The Old Mill of Guilford is a working mill producing stone-ground grains. You can purchase a variety of products, from pancake mixes to grits and cornmeal. The grounds are also scenic, making it a great spot for a leisurely stroll and photos.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed shopping
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn Afternoons
Why
Beautiful fall foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday Season
Why
Festive atmosphere, great for gifts
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Old Mill of Guilford was founded in North Carolina on Beaver Creek in 1767 to grind grain for the early settlers of what is now Guilford County. Today, the mill continues to produce all-natural, stone-ground, whole grain foods, just as it has for over 240 years. ♥️ ##NC##oakridge##family##fy##100kviews##trip##oldmillofguilford##autism##farmer##smallbusiness##momlife##mothersday
@castro_julissa25
14 likes • 707 views

🛍️ Shop Local Goodies

Stock up on stone-ground cornmeal, grits, pancake mixes, jams, and more. Great for gifts or your own pantry! TikTokInstagramReddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture the historic water wheel and charming mill building. The grounds offer lovely scenic views. TikTokInstagram

Old Guilford Mill Oak Ridge NC #nc #northcarolina #explorenc #explore #adventure #roadtrip #travel #travelnc #traveltiktok #explore #solotravel #solotravelwoman #guilford #mill #historical #historicnc #oakridge #oakridgenc #explorer #historicmill #waterwheel
@darthzannah80
105 likes • 1.2K views
Autumn is the perfect time to visit The Old Mill of Guilford #Guilfordmill #historicsights #supportlocal #localbusinesses
heritagegreens
1 likes • 49 views

🐾 Friendly Feline

Keep an eye out for the friendly mill cat that roams the grounds – a delightful surprise for visitors! [^Review]

📅 Check for Events

The mill sometimes hosts special events or seasonal offerings, especially around holidays. TikTokInstagram

Old Mill of Guilford Southern Style Unbleached White Grits 5 lbs Stone Ground Corn Meal No Preservatives Hand Packed
blessedbyelderberries
0 likes • 159 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛍️ Shop Local Goodies

Stock up on stone-ground cornmeal, grits, pancake mixes, jams, and more. Great for gifts or your own pantry! TikTokInstagramReddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture the historic water wheel and charming mill building. The grounds offer lovely scenic views. TikTokInstagram

🐾 Friendly Feline

Keep an eye out for the friendly mill cat that roams the grounds – a delightful surprise for visitors! [^Review]

📅 Check for Events

The mill sometimes hosts special events or seasonal offerings, especially around holidays. TikTokInstagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll want to explore the grounds, so wear comfortable shoes for walking around the mill. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(82 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Old Mill of Guilford for its rich history, high-quality stone-ground products, and charming atmosphere. Many appreciate the opportunity to support a local, long-standing business and enjoy the scenic grounds. Some note that it can get busy during peak times, but the overall experience is highly rewarding.

"Old stone grind mill that has been in business for over 250 years. No, really, 250 years. They offer a variety of different baking mixes, corn bread, biscuit, loaf bread, and muffins. They have an excellent selection of local jams, jellies, and treats, and try the peanut brittle it is awesome. If she is out, pet the cat that roams around. She is beautiful and quite friendly. While tyere, walk around the grounds and look at the mill, it is truly a historic place, and the grounds are quite pretty. They do some special orders like no milk, so if you have a milk allergy, ask them about placing an order for some dairy free."

West Cooper

"Went to the mill to look for flour in preparation for sourdough bread. They have a good selection of stone ground flour. It was a great day for a visit to the old mill that is still in operation."

Richard Parkes

"Such a cute gem 💎! So many different options of homemade products and foods. The also sale meats, coffee, mugs, jams, soaps, oils and so much more. A great place to visit! Wonderful customer service.

Thank you Old Mill of Guilford:)"

Genean

What People Like

Historic working mill
High-quality stone-ground products
Friendly staff and atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during holidays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Mill of Guilford is located in Oak Ridge, North Carolina, northwest of Greensboro. It's easily accessible by car. Many visitors share their road trip experiences to the mill, highlighting its scenic drive. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, there is typically ample parking available for visitors at the Old Mill of Guilford. TikTok

Absolutely! The Old Mill of Guilford is a popular day trip destination from Greensboro, located just a short drive away. Instagram

The closest major airport is Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) in Greensboro, which is about a 15-20 minute drive from the mill. Instagram

Yes, it's generally well-marked and a straightforward drive. Many visitors find it a pleasant stop on their travels through North Carolina. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to visit the Old Mill of Guilford. You can explore the grounds and the mill building freely. TikTokInstagram

Operating hours can vary, especially around holidays. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Old Mill of Guilford is typically open on weekends, but hours may differ from weekdays. Always confirm current hours before planning your trip. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can explore the mill building and see the historic equipment. It's a fascinating look at how grains were ground historically. TikTokInstagram

While not always advertised, the mill is a historic site and may have special events or demonstrations. It's worth checking their local listings or inquiring upon arrival. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Products

You can find a wide variety of stone-ground products including cornmeal, grits, pancake mixes, biscuit mixes, flours, and more. They also sell local jams, jellies, honey, and other artisanal goods. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Yes, they are famous for their stone-ground grits! You can purchase various types of grits, including Southern Style White Grits. Instagram+2

Absolutely! They offer a great selection of stone-ground cornmeal, perfect for baking cornbread and other Southern dishes. TikTokInstagram

While many products are naturally gluten-free, it's always best to inquire directly about specific ingredients or potential cross-contamination if you have severe allergies. They do offer some special orders. [^Review]

Yes, many visitors mention ordering their favorite products online, especially if they can't visit in person regularly. [^Review]

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Yes, the historic mill, water wheel, and surrounding grounds offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially during autumn. TikTokInstagram+1

Founded in 1767, it's one of America's oldest continuously operating grist mills, playing a vital role in supplying early settlers with grain. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. TikTokInstagram+2

Families can enjoy exploring the historic mill, learning about its history, and picking up delicious baked goods and mixes. The grounds are also pleasant for a stroll. TikTok

While the main mill building and store are generally accessible, some of the outdoor grounds might have uneven terrain. It's advisable to check accessibility details if needed. TikTok

Take your time to explore the mill, chat with the staff, and sample some of the products. Enjoy the historical atmosphere and the scenic surroundings. TikTok [^Review]

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Mill of Guilford is a fantastic spot for families looking for an educational and engaging outing. Kids can marvel at the historic water wheel and the working gristmill, offering a tangible lesson in history and how things were made in the past.TikTok+1 The scenic grounds provide space for children to explore and burn off energy, making it a pleasant stop for all ages TikTok [^Review]. Plus, picking out a special pancake mix or grits to take home can be an exciting souvenir for young ones.TikTok

👩‍🌾 History Buffs & Culture Seekers

For those fascinated by history, the Old Mill of Guilford is a must-visit. As one of America's oldest continuously operating grist mills since 1767, it offers a direct link to the nation's past.TikTokInstagram+2 You can explore the historic mill building, learn about its role in early American life, and appreciate the traditional stone-grinding methods that are still in use today.TikTokInstagram The mill's status on the National Register of Historic Places underscores its cultural significance.

foodie Foodies & Home Bakers

Food enthusiasts and home bakers will find a paradise at the Old Mill of Guilford. The stone-ground cornmeal, grits, and flours are celebrated for their superior quality and authentic flavor Instagram+1 [^Review]. You can find everything you need for classic Southern dishes, from biscuit mixes to pancake blends.TikTokInstagramReddit Don't forget to explore the selection of local jams, honeys, and other artisanal treats to complement your baking or enjoy as delicious snacks [^Review].

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History: The Old Mill's Legacy

The Old Mill of Guilford is more than just a building; it's a living piece of North Carolina history. Established in 1767, this working gristmill has been grinding grains for settlers and communities for over two and a half centuries. It's one of the oldest continuously operating mills in America and holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places.TikTokInstagram+2 The mill's operation on Beaver Creek highlights the ingenuity and self-sufficiency of early American settlers.

Today, the mill continues its tradition by producing all-natural, stone-ground, whole grain foods.TikTokInstagram This commitment to traditional methods ensures that visitors can experience the authentic taste and quality that has been preserved for generations. The water wheel, a prominent feature, is a constant reminder of the mill's original power source and its enduring connection to the natural environment.TikTokInstagram

Visiting the Old Mill of Guilford offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past. It's a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era and understand the foundational role such mills played in the development of communities. The historic charm and the continuous operation make it a truly special destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike.TikTokInstagram

Taste of Tradition: Products from the Mill

The Old Mill of Guilford is renowned for its wide array of stone-ground products, offering a delicious taste of North Carolina heritage. Visitors can stock up on essentials like cornmeal, grits, and various flour blends perfect for baking.TikTokInstagramReddit+1 Whether you're a seasoned baker or just looking for authentic Southern ingredients, the mill has something to offer.

Beyond the staples, the mill store features delightful pancake mixes, biscuit mixes, and cornbread fixings.TikTokInstagramReddit These convenient mixes allow you to recreate the mill's quality at home. Many visitors rave about the gingerbread mix and spoon bread mix for their exceptional flavor and ease of preparation TikTok [^Review]. The quality is consistently praised, with many customers returning for decades to purchase their favorites [^Review].

In addition to baked goods ingredients, the Old Mill of Guilford also offers a selection of local jams, jellies, honeys, and other artisanal treats [^Review]. You might even find unique items like peanut brittle or soaps [^Review]. It's a fantastic place to find gifts or souvenirs that truly represent the local flavor of North Carolina. Many products are available for online ordering, extending the mill's reach beyond its physical location [^Review].

Exploring the Grounds and Atmosphere

The Old Mill of Guilford offers a charming and picturesque setting that extends beyond the mill building itself. Visitors often enjoy taking a leisurely stroll around the grounds, which are situated along Beaver Creek TikTok [^Review]. The natural beauty of the area, especially during autumn, provides a serene backdrop for exploration and photography.Instagram

The historic water wheel is a focal point, not only for its historical significance but also as a picturesque element of the landscape.TikTokInstagram The overall atmosphere is one of tranquility and timelessness, inviting visitors to slow down and appreciate the surroundings. It’s a place where you can feel a connection to the past while enjoying the present.TikTokInstagram

Many reviewers mention the friendly nature of the mill, including a resident cat that often greets visitors [^Review]. This adds a personal touch to the experience, making it feel even more welcoming. The combination of historical architecture, natural scenery, and a friendly atmosphere makes the Old Mill of Guilford a delightful place to visit for a few hours.TikTokInstagram

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