About Ifield Watermill
Ifield Watermill is thought to be the only working Watermill in West Sussex still powered by its original water source (the Ifield millpond). There were mills in the area from as early as 1274. Ifield Watermill was in operation from 1660. Rebuilt following a fire in 1683, it continued to operate until the 1920s when it was left to deteriorate. Ted Henbury was alerted to its presence by his son, and together with the local rescue archaeologist John Gibson-Hill set up a restoration group to work on the watermill. Work started on the restoration in 1974, and the watermill now boasts a working waterwheel as well as a renovated building. Crawley Museums CIO is most grateful to the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings for their grant and advice, and also to the James Longley Trust, the Courage Dyer Trust, and the private donor for their support, enabling the wheel to be restored to full working order. Ifield Watermill contains a variety of working mechanical instruments which show the use of the Mill. It also houses exhibitions about the history and restoration of the Mill and the history of the local area.
Hire the Watermill
The Watermill can be opened specially for groups outside of normal open hours by appointment. There is no fee for this, although donations are appreciated. The maximum for groups is usually 40. However at present the maximum group size is determined by Covid-19 restrictions. If you wish to book a group visit to the Watermill, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
Ifield Watermill's address is Off Hyde Dr, Crawley RH11 0PL
Opening Times
Ifield Watermill opening days for 2024 are
Sunday 28th April, 2pm-5pm
Sunday 12th May (National Mills Weekend), 2pm-5pm
Sunday 26th May, 2pm-5pm
Sunday 30th June, 2pm-5pm
Sunday 28th July, 2pm-5pm
Sunday 25th August, 2pm-5pm
Sunday 15th September (Heritage Open Days), 2pm-5pm
Sunday 29th September, 2pm-5pm
Contact Us
The nearest train station is Ifield. The Watermill is a 20 minute walk from the station
Buses run to Ifield from the surrounding area. The nearest bus stop is in Hyde Drive.
There are facilities in which you can store your bicycles in a safe area.
There is a car park located at the junction with Hyde Drive, which is a couple of minutes walk from the watermill.
