A fascinating interesting day spent at this lovely location. Attended an day's Blacksmithing course here. Well lead and instructive activity. Would recommend to everyone. The instructors and staff were welcoming, warm, friendly and approachable. We made two items at an relaxed pace under their guidance. Health & safety instructions and equipment in good order.
My husband, teen son and I did the interactive blacksmithing workshop this past Saturday and it was TERRIFIC! Michael and his assistant Garth first took us on a tour of this historical mill and showed us how spades are made. It was fascinating to see how the mill was built and how it's powered and it's awesome that the National Trust has ensured its continuity. Then they helped us make our own fire pokers using the forge. It was exciting, educational, and challenging but they made sure we did everything safely and our pokers came out excellent (well mostly). I think the only reason this experience isn't oversubscribed is that people don't know about it. Hopefully they'll be able to continue it as it's a great opportunity to do something unique and fascinating. Highly recommend.
Had a brilliant day at Patterson's Spade Mill, James was wonderful showing us around. There was so much to see and do, the coal forges and the massive gas forge. The hydraulic power hammers were amazing to watch as the blacksmiths worked on shaping billets of steel. Would definitely recommend a visit to this fantastic place.
Fascinating tour and demonstration of spade making. Think hot metal and massive hammers. Friendly, knowledgeble staff and volunteers. Bear in mind: this is one of the smaller NT properties so doesn't have a cafe.
This is a little known national trust property. Well worth a visit. You’ll never look at a spade again in the same way. This place is lucky to still be here so do support it. It is believed to be the last one in all of Europe! The guides know their stuff and the demonstrations will show you what life in a spade mill was like over a hundred heads ago, little has changed. The mill includes the original race which powers the water turbine.
Loved it so much. Actually seeing a spade forged in front of us using the water wheel. Guides great fun and full of knowledge. Bought a spade too!
Amazing stop on our trip round northern Ireland. Small but fascinating. Lots to see and the staff are really friendly.
National Trust - Patterson's Spade Mill is located at 751 Antrim Rd, Templepatrick, Newtownabbey, Ballyclare BT39 0AP, UK
You can contact National Trust - Patterson's Spade Mill at +44 28 9443 3619
You can find directions to National Trust - Patterson's Spade Mill by following this map link