The Ballycopeland Windmill stands just outside Millisle on the B172, south of Donaghadee on the Ards Peninsula, County Down - a tall, whitewashed tower mill visible for some distance across the flat surrounding land.
History
Dating from the later 18th century, the windmill was worked commercially by the McGilton family until it ceased operating in 1915 and fell into disrepair. The government acquired it in 1935, and after extensive restoration it returned to working order in 1978. Once one of over a hundred windmills across County Down, Ballycopeland is thought to be the last operating windmill left in Ireland.
How It Works
Ballycopeland is a tower mill - a design, first used from around the 13th century, with a static stone or brick tower topped by a rotating cap that turns the sails into the wind, an improvement on earlier, simpler windmill designs. Inside, gearing transfers the sails’ turning motion down to grinding stones, which is how Ballycopeland processed wheat, corn, and other grains historically. Elsewhere in Europe, particularly the Netherlands and Crete, windmills were also widely used to pump water rather than grind grain.
Visiting
The mill has traditionally opened to visitors only during July and August, free of charge, with the interior kept close to its working-era appearance, a video on its history and mechanics, and - with luck - a chance to see grain actually ground. The miller’s house and a small visitor centre are also open when the mill is. Current opening details, contact information, and the managing authority (Northern Ireland’s historic monuments now sit with the Historic Environment Division of the Department for Communities, rather than the older agency previously listed here) should be checked directly before a visit, as this pass couldn’t independently confirm them.
Getting There
From Belfast, head to Newtownards (under 10 miles east of the city), then take the B172 eastward - the windmill comes into view just before Millisle.
