The renovation of a West Dorset former Mill

We are delighted to report the incredibly successful and sympathetic renovation of West Mill in Bridport, now part of our West Dorset portfolio.

This fabulous mill has been lovingly bought back to life by its owner Gillian Harwood. Gillian is particularly interested in old industrial buildings – she has successfully restored all sorts of spaces in her work life, starting with rescuing a Victorian bus factory in Islington. This project went so well she was awarded Business Women of the Year – an accolade that was presented to her by the late Margaret Thatcher.

Clearly not a person to shy away from a challenge she got stuck in, making this iconic Bridport landmark a warm, welcoming and fascinating home.

West Mill first appears in records back in 1560, the building that stands now dates to the late 19th century and is Grade II listed. It maintains a plethora of its original features and is part of the history of Bridport's rope and net making past. Bridport has a long history making fishing, sports, specialist nets and cargo restraints. One of the former products was that of the hangman’s rope and noose – known as a Bridport Dagger.  Most of the goal nets for football championships were made in Bridport – including those used during the 1966 World Cup.

Now a dynamic space with cosy bedrooms, luxury bathrooms and calm living areas, West Mill is a fantastic home to use to explore Bridport, the local countryside and the Jurassic Coastline just a couple of miles distant.