Sopley Mill

History of Sopley Mill

The history of Sopley Mill in Dorset is quite fascinating. The existence of a mill on the River Avon at Sopley dates back to the time of the Domesday Survey. During this period, an annual payment of 10 shillings and 875 eels was recorded for the mill. The current structure of Sopley Mill dates back to 1878. It originally operated with an undershot wheel and was later upgraded with a turbine. The mill remained operational until 1946.

Further historical details reveal that there was a mill in Sopley as early as 1086, which was part of the rent payment structure of the era. Interestingly, the mill seems to have been equally owned by the two owners of Sopley Manor. The conveyance by John Berkeley in 1592, which included the manor of Southavon and Sopley, mentioned four water mills in the area. However, by 1687, under the ownership of Sir Henry Tichborne, only two mills were noted. The present mill stands on the left bank of the River Avon in the village of Sopley.

In recent years, Sopley Mill has found a new life as a restaurant and a popular local venue for marriages and wedding receptions, adding a contemporary chapter to its long and storied history.