June 4 2025

A rare example of an 18th-century threshing and corn mill, notable for the survival of its original kiln and machinery, has been restored to working order following a £4.9m refurbishment.

John O'Groats Mill Trust commissioned McGregor Bowes to revive the water-powered early industrial survivor as a heritage attraction and community venue.

These efforts have introduced a cafe, craft workshop and events space to the B-listed attraction, a mile from the famous John O'Groats signpost.

Reconnected to the mill pond the fully operational mill is a hive of activity once more with its arrangement of pulleys, gears, shafts and belts working for display and education.

The project team included Torrance Partnership, Narro, and Rybka, with interpretation design by Bright. 

2 Comments

#1 Posted by Mark on 4 Jun 2025 at 22:08 PM

Great to see another water-powered mill being saved from dereliction. Should also help to lift "John o' Grots" a wee bit…

#2 Posted by Curious on 6 Jun 2025 at 10:28 AM

Very nice scheme. But how did they get away with those lovely but climbable rigging wire barriers on the external terrace?

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