Things to do

TEMPORARILY CLOSED. The world's oldest mechanised paper mill - the birthplace of paper's industrial revolution in 1803. Today it is still a working paper mill producing around 100 tonnes of specialist grade paper every year on historic paper machines. Much historical innovation occurred in the Gade Valley, with many world changing inventions, largely overlooked as paper is a commodity in constant use that we are almost blind to its existence. Paper is fascinating. It is a mix of history, science and art. with something for all ages and a hands-on experience. Visitors can see paper being formed on our 1802 machine. The mill and visitor centre are currently closed to visitors due to a large fire in January 2022. As a result we cannot offer our usual informative guided tours, creative courses or group visits. However, we are still offering Family fun activities in school holidays including our Storyboats (boats trips with storytelling and wildlife watching for children 4 to 8 years) and paper crafting. The Bryan Donkin boat is available for half and whole day hire with one of our qualified skippers.

A temporary Visitor Centre should be open at the start of 2024, while an exciting new museum is constructed.