Howsham Mill and the Designed Landscape of Howsham Hall

The lands of Howsham belonged to Kirkham Abbey until the Dissolution and the present

house (1610 Listed Grade I) was possibly built with Abbey stone. Thomas Bamburgh bought

the manor of Howsham in 1573 and William Bamburgh who succeeded in 1593 gave

Howsham Hall its present form. The designed landscape developed in two distinct phases.

Firstly in the early 18 th century and secondly in mid to late 18 th century.

Sir John Wentworth, Lord of Howsham between 1689 and 1720, after remodelling the hall’s

east façade, laid out a series of enclosed formal gardens. Nathaniel Cholmley (inherited

Howsham 1758), in c.1770 with advice from John Carr and Thomas Atkinson, improved the

interior of the Hall and consulted Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. The late 18 th century

improvements, completed by 1776 included the partial demolition of Howsham village to

create a park to the south of the Hall, remodelling of the water mill (Listed Grade II) and the

Holms to the west, an ornamental boat house, icehouse, stable block, kitchen garden etc.

Howsham Mill has been restored by the Renewable Heritage Trust, generating

hydroelectricity from the waterwheel and the first Archimedes Screw turbine installed in the

UK. There are now two Archimedes Screws!

Take A64 York/Malton road. From York exit to right signposted to Barton-le-Willows. Follow

road signs towards Howsham. After crossing the large stone bridge over the River Derwent,

the car park is immediately on the right, opposite the gates to Howsham Hall. Continue on

foot under the bridge and along the riverbank to the mill island. The footpath is suitable for

wheelchairs from the car park. Space is limited so if you can, please share cars and please

park thoughtfully.

Please meet at the Mill at 11.00am for coffee and biscuits followed by a presentation and

guided tours in groups of 20 by members of the Renewable Heritage Trust. The Trust has

some early 20 th century lantern slides of the Hall and boating on the river that are being

scanned and we should be able to view those too.

An illustrated book The Story of Howsham Mill will be available to purchase at £7.50.

Please bring a picnic lunch and drink. After lunch Val will lead to look at the evolution of the

historic designed landscape walking from the Mill to Howsham village. Please wear suitable

shoes. There will be a handout.

Tickets cost £15.00 (Non-members £18.00)

Organiser: Val Hepworth

Host or Publisher Yorkshire Gardens Trust