Thaxted, Essex – January 24, 2025 – A major restoration project is set to bring new life to Thaxted Windmill, a cherished landmark in Essex, thanks to a £1.6 million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England. The funding—£1.3 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and £300,000 from Historic England—will support essential repairs, enhance visitor access, and engage the local community in preserving a key piece of the region’s heritage.
A Landmark Restoration Effort
Thaxted Windmill, also known as John Webb’s Windmill, was built in 1804 and remains the last surviving windmill in the area. However, time and weather have taken their toll on the Grade II*-listed structure, leading to significant decay. Since being added to Historic England’s Heritage at Risk register in 2019, the windmill has suffered from severe internal damp, eroded brickwork, and deteriorating millwrighting machinery.
The restoration project will focus on halting this decline by repairing the brick tower, windows, doors, and wooden panelling. Crucially, the mill’s original mechanism—including its sails, winding gear, and milling machinery—will be fully restored, allowing the windmill to return to working order for the first time in decades.
Reviving Heritage Skills & Community Engagement
Beyond preserving the windmill itself, the project aims to breathe life into traditional millwrighting and heritage-building skills. Open days and apprentice training programs will provide opportunities to learn about these rare trades, ensuring their survival for future generations.
“Restoring Thaxted Windmill is about more than preserving bricks and mortar—it’s about keeping precious heritage skills alive and creating a vibrant community asset,” said Trudi Hughes, Architect and Surveyor for Historic England.
To further involve the local community, the project will introduce sensory experiences and interactive educational materials that tell the stories of the mill’s former owners, workers, and families. Biodiversity initiatives will also be introduced to manage the surrounding landscape, making the windmill site an engaging destination for visitors of all ages.
A Piece of Thaxted’s History
Originally commissioned by businessman and farmer John Webb, the windmill was built using locally sourced red brick and stood as the most advanced of Thaxted’s mills. It operated for 100 years before falling into disrepair. This restoration project marks a turning point in its history, ensuring that it remains a focal point for the town for generations to come.
For those interested in learning more or getting involved in the restoration effort, further information is available at johnwebbswindmill@gmail.com or via the project’s official website.
With the sails set to turn once again, the restoration of Thaxted Windmill is not just a triumph for historic preservation but a testament to the enduring power of community, heritage, and craftsmanship.
