ALTHOUGH I have been visiting the Lake District for many years, I have only once before visited the western lakes.

From my campsite at Ravenglass, I took the narrow gauge steam train inland, from the coast, to Dalegarth, the station at the end of the line, some seven miles of wild countryside and small villages.

What a surprise, a short walk from the railway station to the village of Boot and I found a medieval water mill with not one, but two overshot water-driven wheels. The Eskdale Mill is amazing. It dates from around 1294, although the structure we see today is from around 1578.

The mechanism is made in a most basic and primitive manner with wooden gears and wheels, ropes and bits of wood as levers and brakes, plus the skill of the miller being the main ingredients for very efficient corn milling.

The water supply is a cascade of waterfalls coming off the high fells behind the mill. I was told there is always a plentiful supply of renewable energy. As a member of Holgate Windmill and Gayle Water Mill, I have an interest in old industrial technology. The miller of Eskdale, Dave King, was an excellent guide, and knew his history that’s for sure.

So readers, next time you are visiting the Lakes, please take time to visit this little gem.

Stuart Wilson, Vesper Drive, Acomb, York.