About This Event

Discover the industrial and social history of the last water powered mill in the Lothians and its working machinery with our expert guides. Preston Mill is managed by the National Trust for Scotland. It is one of the oldest mills in Scotland and was used as a location for the television show Outlander. It was still producing oatmeal comercially as recently as 1959 and was the last working watermill in the Lothians. There is a countryside walk to the nearby Phantassie Doocot. Our tours give an insight into the working life of the miller and his mill, and show how his water powered machines were used for moving, grinding and dressing the oats which kept the local commuity fed. the tour also shows the development of pre-industrial technology and how water was harnessed as a power source. Guided tours run most days when we are open. Tours start promptly so please make sure you give yourself plenty of time. On arrival, please go to the visitor centre to check in. Tickets can be purchased on the day, but we cannot guarantee entry, Please book in advance to confirm your spaces on the tour. Because of the historic nature of the mill building, tours may not be suitable for everyone. There are steps inside the mill and some uneven floors. The walk to the doocot involves steps to the bridge over the river Tyne. If noise or moving machinery might be an issue, please note we also run tours once a month (Quiet Days) when the machinery is not running. Please speak to a staff member if you have any concerns and we will do what we can to facilitate your visit.

Frequently asked questions

Staying overnight?

Hotels within walking distance of Preston Mill.