Sadlers Mill

Sadler's Mill in Romsey, dating back to at least the 16th century, was a historic corn and grist mill on the River Test, owned by the Broadlands estate for centuries before milling ceased in 1932; after falling into dereliction, it was meticulously restored in the early 2000s by new owners, transforming from a functional mill into a beautiful private residence, though the salmon leap it once featured has changed with water flow alterations. 

Key Historical Points:

• Early Origins: While the current structure dates from later rebuilds, the site's milling history goes back to medieval times, recorded in the Domesday Book (1086). The name "Sadler's" comes from Richard Sadler in 1665.

• Broadlands Era: The mill was part of the Spursholt estate, bought by the first Lord Palmerston in 1745; he rebuilt it in 1748. It remained with the Broadlands estate (belonging to the Palmerston family) for over 250 years.

• Operational Years: It functioned as a corn and grist mill, passing through various owners, including Benjamin Dawkins and William Tripp, and was even known as Burt's Mill when the Burt family were millers.

• Decline & Redundancy: With the rise of larger, powered mills, Sadler's Mill became uneconomical, ceasing milling operations in 1932. A small hydro-electric plant was installed during WWII for Broadlands' electricity, but this was later removed.

• Restoration: After years of dereliction, the Broadlands estate sold the building in 2003. New owners began extensive restoration in 2005, rebuilding much of the original structure and converting it into a private home.

• Modern Day: Today, it's a Grade II listed building and a cherished landmark, though its river setting has changed, with salmon no longer leaping in the mill race due to altered water flow.