This Behind the Scenes takes you into the heart of a historic and expansive textile complex, one that has a storied past and an uncertain future. Dating back to the mid-18th century, this site was once a pioneering hub of innovation. From khaki dye to the miles of puttees worn during the First World War, this complex played a significant role in fabric production.

A Long-Awaited Visit

Though I’ve known about this incredible location for over 12 years, it wasn’t until last year that I finally had the chance to explore it in person. Looking back, I can’t help but feel a bit guilty for taking so long to visit – especially considering its fascinating history and the preservation challenges it faces today.

The Journey There

Despite my long-standing curiosity, my visit came with a few challenges. With a bad knee still healing, I opted for the “easier” route – wading through the freezing cold river instead of scaling the fence, which I knew would have been the quicker option. It was a bit of a test of endurance, but I have to admit, my cold water swimming hobby really came in handy for this! (Check out the clip below to see my friend taking the more direct route while I took the plunge into the icy waters.)

A Self-Sustained Operation

What struck me the most about this mill was how completely self-sustained it was. All the wool sorting, spinning, drying, and weaving processes took place entirely on-site, giving the owners greater control over quality and allowing for increased production.

But that wasn’t all. The mill also housed a variety of supporting trades, including:

  • Basket weaving for wool and yarn storage
  • Joinery for the site’s wooden structures
  • Bookbinding for record and account books
  • Metal forges and workshops for manufacturing and maintaining machinery

It’s incredible to think how all these trades worked together under one roof, creating a self-reliant and highly efficient operation.

Despite several attempts at regeneration, large sections of the mill remain abandoned, with nature slowly reclaiming the space. Capturing the beauty of these forgotten places is a way to preserve their essence before time erases them entirely.