The National Trust acquired Wellbrook Beetling Mill in 1969 by Samuel John Henderson. The trust is very proud to be the custodians preserving the last working beetling mill in Northern Ireland. Beetling was the process that finished off linen, giving the damask cloth its characteristic smoothness and sheen.
During the nineteenth century the linen industry elevated Northern Ireland’s manufacturing industry to become leaders in its production across the globe. Wellbrook takes its power from the fast-flowing Ballinderry River. A path follows the wooded banks of the river a few hundred yards to the west and along by the mill race and flume.
This Corkhill mill is set in a picturesque landscape that was once busy with similar mills. As this is the last remaining beetling mill, the National Trust opens the space up to visitors to be shown around by guides and they will have a chance to see the machinery in full working order. For opening times and prices please visit the website - www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wellbrook-beetling-mill or contact 028 8674 8210.
