Heron Corn Mill Weir - Beetham, Cumbria UK
Posted by: martlakes
N 54° 12.766 W 002° 46.463
30U E 514713 N 6007218
A corn mill has been at this site since before 1096. In 1973 a Trust was formed to rescue the current mill from terminal decline. Associated with the mill is a weir to create a working head for the 14ft high breast-shot water wheel.
Waymark Code: WM35BQ
Location: United Kingdom
Date Posted: 02/12/2008
Views: 43
As well as a corn mill the site is also home to an active paper making factory on the east bank. The factory is owned by Billerud Beetham Ltd and exudes clouds of steam at times.
The river Bela is a low volume river and changes considerably with the general rainfall. Milling only takes place when there is enough water. This is generally the case but there can be periods in dry weather when the river is too low.
The weir is built on a natural rock ledge which reduced the job. A natural cave on the corn mill side has been used to make a fish-pass for salmon heading up stream.
Parking can be found at the corn mill site - follow the signs, & co-ords above. The mill is currently under going major refurbishment and the installation of a water turbine, using the weir. It will re-open in April 2009 and is a great place to visit.
See: (
visit link)