Alderford Mill

Alderford Mill is a historic timber watermill on the edge of the Hedingham Riverside Walk, run and opened to the public by the Friends of Alderford Mill. It is one of the best preserved watermills in Essex and still holds much of its original machinery, so children can see how grain was once ground and how the building changed from water power to steam and then diesel. The water wheel runs when water levels allow, which makes a visit more interesting on the right day. Visits are arranged on set open days, and schools, groups and clubs can book separate visits by email. Because the mill is a small heritage site with no toilets on site, it suits a short, focused outing for children interested in history, engineering or the countryside rather than a long day of activities.