Aldridge's Mill - Cleeve Terrace - Stradbrook
Aldridge's Mill - Cleeve Terrace - Stradbrook


There seems to be evidence of a fulling mill on this site in the 13th century. It used Luccombe Springs and thence the Milbourne as a source of water. From 1682, it was referred to as Aldridge’s Mill and was leased as a grist or corn mill. By the end of the 18th century it is documented as being ‘run down’ having been taken over and used for scribbling (wool carding).

In 1852, Stradbrook Mill (also now known as the ‘Old Factory’) was sold, being described as a basement with three upper storeys 39.5 x 16 feet and powered by a 15-foot overshot water wheel and a six horse-power steam engine.

The mill itself was demolished in 1909, and three terraced houses were built on its foundations. The basement described in 1852 still exists and is divided equally between the three houses that make up Cleeve Terrace.

Evidence of the mill being powered by a water wheel is visible in the garden and house of No 3. Some 20 years ago a kitchen extension was built on the end where the wheel would have been. Glass panels were installed in the extension so you can still see the mill race. Also in the kitchen, there is a small internal window which would have looked out over the wheel. In the workshop, which is also part of the new extension, there is evidence where the mill wheel has rubbed against the original brickwork.

Access to the cellar is by some very old and worn stone steps leading to an area supported by a series of brick arches. There is a connecting passage between the three houses which in theory could be accessed but has been blocked off, presumably since the build in 1909.
Throughout the garden there are several architectural features such as buttresses and stone walls near the stream and anomalies under the lawn indicating stone walls which are only visible during times of prolonged dry weather. Together, these features would have formed part of the mill water management system.

'Then and Now - Aldridge's Mill, Bratton' Wiltshire Times

'Bratton Mills' by Jean Morrison





[Return]
Bratton History Association.

The Bratton History Association aims to provide all those curious about local history with an opportunity to meet, exchange ideas, and discover more about the history of Bratton and Wiltshire. Activities include monthly meetings, talks by professional historians, visits to places of interest to historians, and our own local history project.

Copyright Bratton History Association 2015-2026

Bratton History Association Privacy Statement
Web Design by Blue Engine Web Development © 2008-2026