The Project
On the shores of Lake Windermere, this extensive working mill started in 1835 to produce the wooden bobbins vital to the Lancashire spinning and weaving industries. This valuable snapshot of the Industrial Revolution, the development of water and steam power, the interplay with nature and natural resources and the wonderful socio-historical archive represent a unique example and visitor opportunity.
English Heritage commissioned Leach to design an exhibition that supplemented the astonishing re-enactment tour already in existence.
The coppice barn, previously used for storing logs, was converted into a light and bright semi-external exhibition providing an introduction to the tour of the mill.
A hands-on family external trail included interpretive seating and timber tactile panels. We also designed effective interactive panels, on which children use a ‘bobbin key’ to reveal answers to pre-defined clues.
