About

Whitchurch Silk Mill is the UK’s oldest working silk mill, a beautifully preserved 19th‑century water mill set on the banks of the River Test in rural Hampshire. Visitors can explore the historic mill building, see Victorian machinery working and watch silk being woven on traditional looms, offering an engaging glimpse into over 200 years of industrial heritage.

The Riverside Café, located within the Welcome Building, offers scenic views over the river and serves locally sourced light lunches, drinks, and homemade cakes, an ideal spot to relax before or after a visit.

The Mill Shop features unique gifts, including beautiful silk items woven onsite, alongside other locally sourced products, giving visitors the chance to take home a piece of this remarkable heritage craft.

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Disabled Access Information Provided by Whitchurch Silk Mill

Disabled Access at Whitchurch Silk Mill

At Whitchurch Silk Mill, we are committed to making every visit as accessible and enjoyable as possible. Our up‑to‑date Access Guide, available on our website, provides detailed information to help you plan your trip with confidence. If you have any questions or specific access needs, please feel free to email or call us, our team is always happy to help.

Single-level venue

The venue is all on one level, with no steps or raised thresholds.

Lift to all areas

The venue is on multiple levels, with lifts available to all areas.

Disabled access

Accessible retail space

The retail space is accessible, with step-free access and space to move around easily.

Wheelchair-accessible viewing area

A wheelchair-accessible viewing area with step-free access is available, providing an optimal vantage point to view performances, presentations or activities.

Step-free access to most areas

There is step-free access to all or most areas. This may include access by ramp or lift.

Step-free entrance

There is step-free access at the main entrance or an alternative entrance.

Wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet

There is at least one wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet on site.

Step-free route with firm surface from car park to entrance

There is a step-free route with a firm surface from the parking to the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance.

Seating at regular intervals

Seating is available at regular intervals.

Accessible parking at Whitchurch Silk Mill

Whitchurch Silk Mill offers free on‑site parking for two Blue Badge spaces located just a few metres from the shop and café entrance. The Winchester Road public car park is an open-air, compacted-gravel surface, with an accessible route to the Mill; some visitors may require assistance due to uneven areas. Additional free public car parks are available within a short walk of the Mill, including Church Street and Bell Street.

Dedicated on-site parking

On-site accessible parking bays are available within 50 metres of the entrance.

Public or on street parking

Accessible parking bays are available nearby within 50 metres of the entrance.

Transport nearby Whitchurch Silk Mill

You can reach Whitchurch Silk Mill easily by bus from both Andover and Basingstoke.

Bus station or stop

There is an accessible bus station or stop nearby with suitable boarding areas and facilities for disabled passengers.

Toilets features at Whitchurch Silk Mill

Whitchurch Silk Mill provides gender-neutral individual toilets, accessible toilets, and baby-changing facilities for visitors. Accessible toilets are available in the Welcome Building at ground level and on the middle floor of the Mill, ensuring good access across the site. Standard toilets are also available on both floors.

Accessible toilet

A designated accessible toilet designed for wheelchair users and others with visible and non-visible accessibility requirements is available within the main public areas.

Accessible services at Whitchurch Silk Mill

Whitchurch Silk Mill offers a range of accessible services to help visitors enjoy their time with us. We provide accessible toilets on both the ground floor and middle floor of the Mill, as well as standard toilets and baby‑changing facilities. Our Welcome Building and key visitor areas have step‑free entry, and a platform lift provides wheelchair access to the middle and upper floors of the Mill (please note that mobility scooters cannot be accommodated, but a wheelchair is available to borrow). To support visitors before they arrive, we offer a comprehensive, up‑to‑date Access Guide on our website. This guide includes detailed information on parking, routes into the building, toilet facilities, floor access, lighting, surfaces, and visitor support, making it a valuable tool for pre‑planning your visit. It also explains sensory considerations, interpretation formats, and what to expect across all areas of the site.

Wheelchair hire

Wheelchairs are available for visitors to hire or borrow.

Emergency evacuation plan for disabled people

Personal or general emergency evacuation plans are in place for disabled customers.

Emergency evacuation chair

An evacuation chair is available in case of emergency.

Emergency assistance alarm

An emergency assistance alarm is available in at least one wheelchair-accessible bedroom and/or wheelchair-accessible bathroom.

Emergency alarm with flashing lights

There is an emergency alarm with flashing lights to alert deaf guests to a fire or other emergency scenario.

Assistive listening system - Hearing Loop

There is an assistive listening system available e.g. a hearing loop.

Other features at Whitchurch Silk Mill

We are pleased to offer free admission for a carer supporting a visitor with a disability. When a disabled visitor attends the Mill, their accompanying carer is welcomed at no charge—simply speak to our team at reception on arrival. This helps ensure that everyone can enjoy their visit with any support they may need.

Dietary requirements catered for

A selection of food is offered for a range of dietary requirements.

Online booking

Online booking is available.

Carers discount

A carers discount is available.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available for customers.

Virtual tours

A virtual tour of the venue is available, allowing visitors to explore areas they might not be able to access in person.

Map or floorplan

A map or floorplan showing accessibility facilities is available.