1750–1799
Tower grain mill built
Bielside Windmill probably dates from the late eighteenth century and was built as a grain mill.
Site overview
West Barns, Bielside Windmill was a substantial tower windmill near the mouth of the Biel Water. It probably dates from the late eighteenth century and worked as a grain mill before being altered and incorporated into Bielside House.
Map
Map markers and directions links are provided for location reference only and do not indicate public access or permission to enter a site.
No site photograph is currently available. Images will be added as field visits are carried out.
History
West Barns, Bielside Windmill is a former tower grain mill incorporated into Bielside House near West Barns, Dunbar. The mill probably dates from the late eighteenth century and stood near the mouth of the Biel Water. It was built of rubble, mainly red sandstone, and finished with rough harl.
The tower was about 30 feet high, with an external ground diameter of about 20 feet, tapering to about 12 feet at the top. The original three-floor interior survived after conversion, although the windmill was extensively altered when adapted for domestic use. The building was later incorporated into Bielside House.
No remains of the windmill mechanism survive, and no complete ownership sequence or precise final working date has been established.
Timeline
1866
Bielside House extended
Bielside House was extended in 1866, adjoining the earlier house and former windmill converted for domestic use.
1983
Listed building designation
West Barns, Bielside House With Former Windmill was listed on 19 December 1983.
Sources and records
Trove / Canmore place record; Historic Environment Scotland listed building record; Scottish Windmills: An Outline and Inventory; Windmill World site entry