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Tower windmill at Staunton Harold Reservoir

On the small hill just above the visitor centre, this windmill tower at the top of the reservoir dates from 1798. It was built by the first Lord Melbourne at a cost of £250 and milled local grain. Developed in the 18th century, 'tower' windmills of this sort had a revolvable domed top to which the sails were attached to take advantage of wind direction. By the late 19th century the mill was disused and gradually it became derelict. In 1963, a plan was developed to convert it into an observation tower with a new concrete top to allow visitors to overlook the newly built reservoir. Unfortunately, the building was found to be unsuitable, conversion work was never completed and it remains closed to the public.