The Fulling Mill, Alresford: 13th Century Hidden Gem
The Fulling Mill across the River Alre in Alresford, Hampshire dates from the 13th century. This cottage, arguably one of the most picturesque in Britain, is officially Grade II listed. The Fulling Mill is a remarkable example of industrial architecture from a bygone era. The mill was an essential component of the textile industry during the time when Hampshire’s economy was closely tied to the production of cloth. To fully appreciate its significance, one must understand the process it was designed for – fulling. Fulling, also known as tucking or walking, was a critical step in the manufacturing of woollen cloth.
The process involved cleansing, shrinking, and thickening the woven fabric, creating a sturdy, warm, and water-resistant material. It was accomplished by pounding the fabric with water, urine, and fuller’s earth, a type of clay rich in minerals. The Fulling Mill in Alresford was a hub for this process. The water wheel-driven machinery tirelessly beat the cloth, ensuring the highest quality fabric for trade. The mill’s strategic location on the River Arle provided an ample water source, making it an ideal place for such an operation.
The cottage was saved from demolition in 1951 when it was renovated and the now beautiful garden laid out. It had become derelict having fallen into disuse in the 19th century when the cloth industry established large mills to undertake an increasingly mechanised process taking all of the business from established local mills.