Coldharbour Mill

We visited on a special exhibition day, we’ve not been on a steam-up day but would like to. We were shown round on a guided tour and it was fascinating to learn the way in which raw fleece is spun into beautifully dyed yarn and see some examples of cloth at the end of it. We really enjoyed the museum, learning about military uniform for example. It is lovely to walk along the river from Uffculme to Culmstock. Uffculme is about 15 minutes away from accommodation at Halsbeer Farm and Blackdown Yurts.

We visited the Mill quite late in the day and there was only one other visitor so we effectively had a personal tour of the Mill by a highly engaging and very enthusiastic volunteer guide. I didn’t catch her name but her love of the Mill, its history and the machinery was evident and she certainly managed to get my 13 year old son interested in the spinning and weaving process. The Mill ceased working in 1981 after over 200 years producing wool and cloth and the various carding, spinning and weaving machines date from the late 19th and 20th centuries. All in all a highly informative visit – we are very glad we went!

Of great interest not just to those who love industrial history but also to craftspeople. So interesting to learn about the process of making woollen yarn. Good explanations in information boards but a real bonus to be taken round as well, even though I was one of a handful of visitors at the time. Clearly Coldharbour attracts passionate staff and volunteers, and this creates a lovely atmosphere. Gorgeous stock in the shop. New café had just opened and was excellent. Very quick and easy to get to from the M5 – a great place to stop for a fascinating break.