“There’s a big old windmill, standing on hillstanding very tall, standing very still,with his great big sails spinning round and round,blowing in the wind as the grain is ground.Turning in to flour all those years agoeven through the winter and the rain and snow.Now the times have changed, it’s just a memoryof the days gone by, and how we used to be.”
William Worthless Windmill Memories 2014
Last weekend, I had the pleasure of visiting Cromer Windmill, a hidden gem tucked away in the Hertfordshire countryside. It was a perfect day for a wee adventure, and the windmill offered just the right mix of history, charm, and tranquility that I was seeking.Upon arrival, what struck me initially was how beautiful the windmill majestically stood proud and strong against the backdrop of a clear deep-blue sky. The structure, with its classic white sails, immediately transported me back in time. Cromer Windmill is the oldest surviving windmill in Hertfordshire, dating back to the late 17th century. Knowing that I was about to step inside a piece of history made the experience even more exhilarating.The windmill is lovingly maintained by a group of dedicated, resolute volunteers, and I could feel the care and passion they have for preserving this historical site. The tour began with a warm welcome from one of the volunteers, who shared fascinating details concerning the windmill's history and its significance to the local community. I learned that it had once been an essential contribution to rural life, grinding grain for nearby farms.Stepping inside, I was amazed by the intricate mechanics of the windmill. The wooden beams, gears and millstones had been carefully restored, and I was able to see firsthand how the windmill operated back in the day. It’s incredible to think about the ingenuity that went into designing and building such a structure centuries ago. As I climbed up the cramped, narrow staircase to the higher levels, I couldn’t help but imagine the miller at work, surrounded by the sounds of creaking wood and grinding stones.One of the highlights of the visit was reaching the top of the windmill, where I could look out over the picturesque countryside. The view was simply breathtaking—rolling fields, dotted with trees and the occasional farmhouse, stretched out as far as the eye could see. It was a moment of pure peace, a chance to take a deep breath and appreciate the beauty of the English countryside.After the tour, I spent some precious time exploring the surrounding area. There’s a small garden with benches where you can sit and soak in the atmosphere. It was the perfect spot for a quiet moment of reflection, thinking about the history I had just experienced and how much life has changed since the windmill was first built.Before leaving, I made sure to visit the little gift shop, where I picked up a few souvenirs to remember my visit. The volunteers were so friendly, and it was clear that they were enthusiastic and passionate about keeping the windmill’s story and legacy alive. I left feeling inspired by their dedication and grateful for the opportunity to step back in time, even if just for a short while.
Visiting Cromer Windmill was more than just a casual day out—it was a journey into the past, a reminder of the simple yet profound ways people once lived and worked. If you ever find yourself in Hertfordshire, I highly recommend taking a trip to this charming windmill. It’s a piece of history that’s not only worth preserving but also worth experiencing first-hand.
That's where I grew up.