Ghosts, machinery and William the Conqueror – the story of Throop Mill

In 1086, William the Conqueror recorded the mill in his Domesday Book. However, it is unclear whether it was at the present location or near it.

An earlier building’s foundation has been found in the existing mill which has stood since the late 19th Century.

Prior to the mill’s closure, Parsons and Sons had owned the mill. They operated the mill until selling it in 1957 and their name can still be seen on the outside of the mill.

After a flood relief scheme was built further up the river, water from the mill dried up, resulting in the mill being closed since 1974.

Even though it is no longer in use, milling machinery from the early 20th century remains. Examples of this can still be seen, notably the 50” turbine drove water for mill. Armfields, a Ringwood-based company, made it and it can now be found outside the mill.

As with most old buildings, Throop Mill is not without its rumours of ghosts and spooky apparitions.

There are rumours of ghosts and strange happenings at the mill. Children who died in an accident in the 1800s and figures with black coats are said to welcome visitors with laughter and singing.

>Throop Mill has enjoyed grade two listed status since May 19 1975 because of its sluice gates. Thus, the exterior appearance must remain the same but the interior can be substantially changed.

A number of different proposals have been made over the years regarding Throop Mill’s future. Various ideas have included a visitors centre, a cafe, a hiking centre and even accommodation.

That said, there currently seems to be very little on the horizon concerning the restoration or repurposing of the four-story building.

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