Merton Abbey Mills

Merton Abbey Mills is an Arts and Crafts community set on the banks of the River Wandle. Each day, in a picturesque historical setting, there are shops and eating places to visit. At weekends, there’s a busy market which focuses on the sale of arts and crafts, jewellery, books and furniture.

In the past, Merton Abbey Mills was established on the site of Merton Priory, largely demolished during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1538. From 1600, the River Wandle’s fast-flowing waters proved perfect for an emerging textile industry, where fabrics were washed, dyed and printed.

At the beginning of the 19th century, there were up to 100 water mills in the area, used in the textile industry or others, such as snuff production. Only four mills survive to this day — the wheel at Merton Abbey Mills, fully restored and working, is one of them.

On the site, the Colour House Theatre has shows every weekend. The building is 400 years old and was once used by Liberty & Co to mix their dyes for silk printing.

Merton Abbey Mills is a great day out for all the family.