Holgate tower windmill was built in 1770 of brickstones by its first owner and miller George Waud.

In 1930, a large electric motor was installed to replace the steam engine, chimney and boiler house, which were pulled down.

In 2001 the Holgate Preservation Society was formed, and the mill's doors were opened to the public in 2005 for the first time after 70 years.

In 2007, most of the external renovation works were completed, a newly manufactured curb ring was lifted in, the scaffolding was removed, and the mill's open top was sealed against rain.

A new white cap with ball finial, brake wheel, windshaft, shears and fivefold iron cross including the fantail rack was craned onto the mill on 28 November 2009.

[8] The mill typically works one day a week producing around 75 kilograms (165 lb) of wholemeal and spelt flour.