It is a Grade II* listed building[1] The mill was constructed in 1800 by Henry Hayter on a plot of land called Frog Island.

During this time, the mill wove silk for Burberry, then based in nearby Basingstoke, who used it as coloured linings for their raincoats.

[3] It ultimately passed to Ede and Ravenscroft who operated it up to 1985, producing legal and academic gowns.

It was then acquired by the Hampshire Buildings Preservation Trust who, after renovation works, opened it to the public in 1990.

The mill was powered by a low breastshot water wheel, 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) in diameter driving the machinery through line shafting.