Bembridge Windmill

Bembridge Windmill is the last surviving windmill on the Isle of Wight, a Grade I listed stone tower built around 1700 that last ground flour in 1913 and still holds most of its original wooden machinery. It inspired Turner and served as a lookout in both World Wars. Visitors climb to the top and follow the milling process back down its four floors; children can hunt for the hidden mice, dress up as a miller and make mud pies in the Mud Bakery, while footpaths lead to Brading Marshes bird reserve and Bembridge Down. Reviewers single out the enthusiastic volunteers who explain the workings, the countryside views and the free footpath round the outside for anyone not going in. Tips from visitors: the upper floors mean steep ladder-like steps; park free in the lay-by 100 yards away and follow the brown signs, not a sat nav postcode. Dogs on leads are welcome outside but not inside the mill.