St. Issey, Wadebridge, PL27 7QU
Tel: (01841) 540604
Email: info@mellingey.com
Web: www.mellingey.com
Cornwall's only traditional basket weaving centre.
Weaving a timeless spell of skill and beauty.
Watch the ancient art of basket making in action! Mellingey Mill is said to be the only centre in Cornwall where traditional basket making continues. Information boards around the workshop trace the craft's early history whilst a weaver is usually on hand demonstrating his skills. Orders are welcome for bespoke baskets and we will always be pleased to quote for individual items made to order.
A wide variety of baskets produced at Mellingey are exhibited on the ground floor of the Mill. Browse to your heart's content - you won't see work like this anywhere else!
Peace and tranquillity is something we all dream of from time to time. The Woodland Walk is the ideal place to forget the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Set in the private grounds of Mellingey Mill, the walks are set through an abundance of different plants and trees, changing every season. Points of interest are sign posted throughout the walks - such as the entrance to a badger set, along with brief details of the birds to look out for. The willow beds you pass are harvested each year for the baskets produced at the Mill. Fallen trees in the valley have been recycled to make bridges, fences and seats along the walks. You are welcome to bring a picnic and relax at the lake, a most picturesque spot looking out over the valley.
The Mill's Gallery is home to the 'Moments in Time' exhibition which illustrates the history of popular snap shot photography and includes a display of vintage cameras.
The Gallery is rich with the history of the Mill; pre 1930's through a state of decline and on to today's programme of restoration. The exhibition details how the Mill operated how flour and grain was traded and transported. It is an insight into the lives of the people who lived and worked here. A section is devoted to the Woodland Walk which covers the important issue of woodland recycling and conservation.
You have all heard of Cornish hospitality and at the Mellingey Mill Tea Rooms it is at its best. Delicious cream teas are served with the finest Cornish clotted cream. The tearooms open out onto a superb sun terrace, bursting with blooming hanging baskets in the summer. But whatever the weather you are sure of a warm welcome.
It is no wonder that visitors come again year after year. In the nine years since opening the programme of restoration has expanded to include more and more.
The top floor of the Mill is at last open and is proud to play host to a unique exhibition of Magic Lantern slides shown for the first time in Cornwall.
Victorian life is portrayed through the slides dating back to before the turn of the century.
Discover for yourself how these Victorian images enthralled and delighted 100 years ago. Enjoy the video presentation which includes Victorian 'special effects' and moving images. Thanks to the Royal Cornwall Museum for additional material supplied.
Probably the only surviving Magic Lantern Exhibition in the West Country.
Three miles south of Padstow just off the A389.
Opening Times10.00am - 5.00pm Admission Charged |
Cornish Birds of Prey Centre Padstow Trenouth Farm Rare Breeds Centre Wadebridge