Quarry Bank Mill
I had wanted to visit Quarry Bank Mill for a very long time; since family history research had led me to family members who were weavers in cotton mills in this very same area. Whether or not they actually worked at this mill was immaterial; I just wanted to get the feel of the sort of place and the conditions they worked in. Also, the TV programme "The Mill" was filmed here, another reason to come and see the place for myself.
When it opened, my first port of call was the formal gardens, which were magnificent. From a distance they looked just like some colourful borders, but there was a walk up a steep bank with some fascinating rock formations, as well as collections of ferns and other herbaceous shrubs. The views over to the Mill were marvellous.
When I reached the top of the bank, there were more beautiful gardens, hot summer borders, greenhouses, well-kept lawns with deck chairs to sit on, a cafe and a shop.
From there, it was only a short walk to the Apprentice House and Garden. I had to get a specific timed ticket (at the reception when I arrived) to go into this section. At the appropriate time, a bell was rung and my guide was waiting to give me (and those on my allocated time-slot) a tour of the house. What a colourful character he was, dressed for the part and so knowledgeable and informative. Up to 90 children lived here at any one time, from Workhouses all over the country. I would have like the tour to have been longer - so savour every minute - it is definitely worth doing.
The Apprentice House is at a crossroads and 2 directions lead to the nearby village of Styal. This was specifically built to house the workers of the mill - it is exceptionally well kept and a delight to wander around. You can also see Norcliffe Chapel (used by the Greg family), a small Methodist Chapel and where the co-operative shop used to be all those years ago.
Once I arrived back at the Mill, it was time to do the tour of the factory - although you didn't have to book this tour earlier. There were many places that were interactive for children, the guide was very informative and there was the chance to see hands-on weaving etc. I was surprised how many different types of machines are involved in the process................................
The water wheel below, that powered the machines.
There were some fascinating photographs, posters and information boards.
I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Quarry Bank Mill, it was a full day out, quite exhausting and I would probably go back again to see more of it. If you have time and energy, there a 3 walks around the estate ranging from 1 to 3.5 miles through various woods, over rivers, past quarries and fields - it is a delightful area. There are lots of changes happening in 2017 - so there will be more to see next year.
Thank you,
Lynne
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