From Pan to Calbourne: A Walk Through Island Mill History

There’s something special about a walk with a purpose. Not just a route from A to B, but a journey that connects you to the stories of the land under your feet.

Our Mill to Mill Walk, taking place on Sunday 31^st August, is exactly that — eight miles linking two of the Isle of Wight’s historic water mills, passing several more along the way.

Starting at Pan Mill, Newport

We’ll meet at Mill Court in Newport, beside the site of Pan Mill. The mill has stood here since medieval times and continued milling into the 20th century, before closing in the 1970s.

Standing here at the start, it’s easy to imagine the whir of the wheel and the bustle of carts arriving with grain.

Tracing the town’s milling past

Leaving Pan Mill, our route winds through Newport, uncovering traces of other mills that once served the community. One is a thriving arts centre, another tucked away in a residential street, and others have vanished completely, leaving only their names on the map.
These early miles give a fascinating glimpse into how central milling was to daily life; flour for bread, animal feed, even the occasional milling of barley for local beer.

Heading west to the Caul Bourne

Once we leave the town behind, the walk opens up into a blend of quiet lanes, field paths, and wooded tracks. We’ll follow stretches of the Caul Bourne, the stream that eventually feeds the wheel at Calbourne.
Here the air is cooler, the path dappled with light, and the pace settles into that steady rhythm that’s so good for both body and mind.

The final approach to Calbourne Water Mill

After eight miles to unwind and relax, we’ll arrive at Calbourne Water Mill, one of the oldest working water mills in the country, dating back over a thousand years. For generations, the wheel has been powered by the same stream we’ve been tracing, and the site is alive with heritage buildings, gardens, and the smell of something delicious from the café.

A well-earned lunch

Every walker will sit down to a homemade lunch — your choice of sandwich, soup, or jacket potato — in the mill café. It’s the perfect way to refuel and reflect on the journey.
From here, you can explore the mill grounds or simply relax until the Southern Vectis Summer Links bus departs at either 1:35pm or 3:35pm to take us back to Newport.

Why join us?

This isn’t just a walk. It’s a chance to:

• Discover the Island’s milling heritage.

• Enjoy varied, scenic terrain.

• Share the experience with a friendly, like-minded group.

• Treat yourself to a well-deserved meal in a unique historic setting.

Spaces are limited, so booking early is essential.

Sunday 31st August 2025
Meet: 9:30am, Mill Court, Newport
Distance: 8 miles, varied terrain
Cost: £25 (includes £10 lunch voucher)
Return bus  (fare not included)

Book your place here: Book Now!