Caudwell Mill and Country Café, Rowsley, Derbyshire
Caudwell Mill, an historic roller flour mill powered by the river Wye, has been milling flour since 1874. You’ll find it in the village of Rowsley on the outskirts of Bakewell. Visit for a tour, to buy specialist flour or to see the local artisans at work.
If you’re staying or dining at The Peacock in Rowsley, you’ll find Caudwell Mill with its craft workshops and riverside Country Parlour Café, just across the road.
It’s a fine example of rural skills and old traditions in action so do take the time to visit.
With Haddon Hall, Chatsworth House, and the town of Bakewell, all literally just down the road, cultural foodies will delight in touring this part of the county.
Visit a Unique Mill
Caudwell Mill is the only complete Victorian water turbine-powered roller mill in Britain. Built by John Caudwell in 1874, what makes the mill unique is that it used the same process as the giant modern mills that provide most of the flour for our bread today.
Tour Caudwell Mill
When the mill ceased trading in 1977, it was saved by ‘Friends of the Mill’ who recognised its importance and has been managed by a charitable trust ever since. Today, you can tour the mill where you’ll find numerous displays, descriptions and models to help you understand the mechanical process.
Shop For Specialist Flour
The shop stocks over 25 types of flour including organic wholemeal, spelt, rye, cornflour, gluten free, pizza, and self-raising wheat flours. Keen bakers can pick up one of over a hundred different recipes to inspire you to experiment with different varieties.
Watch The Artisans At Work
Take a look at the traditional craft workshops in the adjoining Stable Yard. You’ll find a blacksmith and a stonemason at work as well as a glass workshop and a wood gallery. There’s also a craft shop and a large riverside Country Parlour Café serving vegetarian food with views over the surrounding meadows.
Tips
- Entrance is free to the craft workshops but there’s a small fee for visiting the mill
- Go for a walk along the river and you’ll see their grain garden
- Become a volunteer and help to run the mill
- Visitors to the Denby Pottery factory can buy Caudwell flour in their impressive Cook’s Emporium
Where to Stay in the Peak District
If you’re looking for accommodation near Bakewell, The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley is only a short drive away from the town.
Ready to start planning a Peak District break? Take a look at these recommendations for the Best Places To Stay in The Peak District
Dogs
Perfect for me. Take me for a lovely walk along the river.
How to Find Caudwell’s Mill
Caudwell Mill Craft Centre Cafe, Rowsley, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 2EB
Website: www.caudwellsmill.co.uk
Explore
Find more Foodie Things To Do in the Peak District.
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The Foodie Travel Guide
Sally is the founder and editor of The Foodie Travel Guide. She travels around the UK and beyond in search of the best foodie days out, tasting experiences and delicious places to stay. She loves a glass of English sparkling wine, afternoon tea with friends and escaping London for gastronomic adventures.