Although the windmill sits between two power stations there is no electricity supply to the mill. It operates on wind power.
The mill has a set of engine stones that can be used when there is no wind to ensure that grinding continues.
The mill works in response to the pressure of the wind on its sails. Each sail is made up of hinged flaps, called shutters. The miller is able to change the angle of these shutters to regulate the speed of the mill. With the brake released, and the shutters closed, the sails will turn. The sails are connected to the grinding stones through gears and shafts.
Sacks of grain are hoisted to the granary floor (second floor) using a chain hoist which is also driven by the sails. The grain is emptied into a hopper and it works its way down a chute to a stone floor (first floor). Here is is fed through the centre of the top stone (runner stone) and onto the bottom stone (bed stone). It then works it way to the outer edge of the stones, being ground in the process. The ground corn then falls down another chute to the ground floor where it is bagged.
To enable the mill to operate the sails must always face the oncoming wind. This is done automatically by the fantail. The fantail is the smaller sail arrangement attached to the back of the cap. As the wind changes direction the fantail will rotate. This rotates the cap until the sails are once again facing the wind. The cap itself rest on a greased metal curb which is fitted to the top of the brick tower walls. Greasing the mill daily helps to keep the mill running smoothly.
To find out more about the mill’s history, wind power and how grain is made into flour organise a visit to North Leverton Windmill.
Nestling between two modern day power stations visitors can see the old and the new side by side.
We welcome school and group visits
The windmill sits between West Burton and Cottam Power Stations, both operated by EDF Energy. In 2020 nearly 30%% of the countries energy needs were derived from renewable energy sources.
Wind energy is plentiful, renewable and gives off no greenhouse gas emissions. Using energy derived from the wind is not harmful to the environment, WInd power is the conversion of wind energy into a useful form. Wind power consumes no fuel for continuing operation, and does not produce any carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, mercury or any other air pollution.
North Leverton Windmill uses wind energy to drive the millstones that grind corn to produce flour and animal feed. The windmill sources locally grown wheat and uses traditional millstones for grinding to ensure high-quality flour.
We have Wholemeal, Spelt Wholemeal, White and Self-Raising flour available as well as porridge oats, fresh eggs and honey. We recommend that you order in advance so that we can ensure your order is ready to collect. Alternatively, you are welcome to just pop in and buy your flour whilst passing. We can supply flour in any volume, ranging from 1.5kg (approx 3.3lbs) bags to 25kg (approx 56lbs). Oats are sold in either 1kg or 2kg bags. The shop also has a small selection of souvenirs to remember your visit.
We can take cash or card payments on collection. To order either call 01427 880254 or 07968 969424, or email info@north-leverton-windmill.co.uk and we will be back in touch with a confirmation of order.
Open to the public every Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Other times and groups by appointment Please call tel: 01427 880254 or 07968 969424
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