Drapers Windmill

*Visits by appointment or if volunteers onsite plus special events*

*Visit for National Windmill Day 7th and 8th May*

This 19th century smock mill was restored from dereliction by volunteers in the early 70's, rescuing it from demolition.

It was built by Holman's, of Canterbury, in about 1850, and originally one of a pair at this site along St Peter's Footpath. As well as a tour of the mill, we have a small museum and workshop.

The Drapers Windmill Trust still opens the windmill freely to the public: post-Covid. If those interested contact enquiries@draperswindmill.org.uk or 07985147563, a visit will be available to book at short notice, especially when volunteers are onsite.

Your Windmill needs You! As currently one of the few mills operating in Kent, the Wind is not enough - we need people willing to learn to run the sweeps (sails), grind the grain, run our 100 yr old Crossely auxiliary gas engine and share this wonderful resource with visitors. Please get in touch or drop in for a visit!

Heritage Conservation, at Kent County Council, have recently refurbished the cap and stones and the mill is in fine fettle. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Access Information

There are six easy steps at the entrance to the windmill. There is a CCTV monitor display and history film at the ground floor level, for those unable to climb the steep stairs to the upper floors.

Toilet available; although the door is wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair, the facilities themselves are currently not fully accessible. KCC and the Trust are working to improve this.