There has been a windmill at Ashton since medieval times, but the present structure probably dates from the 18th century. It was modernised in 1900 with machinery brought from the demolished mill at Moorlinch, and iron hoops around the building being added. The mill was restored in 1967. Most of the machinery is still in place, which allows visitors to get a good impression of how a Georgian windmill worked. The mill has been designated by English Heritage as a Grade II* listed building.
Unfortunately, the mill is currently closed to visitors, owing to Somerset council’s concerns over health and safety. The Ashton Windmill Volunteers Committee, under the chairmanship of Dave Nevitt (07979 088603), are working with the council to resolve this in time to reopen the mill to visitors this summer.