Stretton Watermill in Cheshire is inviting visitors to step back in time to enjoy a Victorian harvest fair on Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28.

The millers and volunteers will be recreating the autumn activities of the 19th century including churning butter and pressing apples and children can enjoy playing some Victorian games.

Musicians will provide atmosphere with some 19th century favourites played on instruments of the period.

Chris Hocking, one of the millers at Stretton, is also a vintage cycle enthusiast and will show off some of his collection and demonstrate the riding of a boneshaker and penny farthing.

Cyclist Chris Hocking riding a penny farthing at Stretton Watermill
Cyclist Chris Hocking riding a penny farthing at Stretton Watermill

There will also be opportunities to take a ride down the lanes on a horse-drawn carriage and drift back into Victorian country life.

The watermill remains almost unchanged since 1852 and costumed millers will demonstrate the grinding of wheat using the ancient machinery. The whole event runs from noon-5pm each day.

Farndon councillor Howard Greenwood said: “It has been a successful season for the watermill and this weekend will give people one final chance to experience the living history of this beautiful building before the mill closes for the winter.

”We firmly believe that living history events such as this one, bring the whole site to life so that everyone can join in, making the Victorian weekend another memorable event.”

Stretton Watermill is a hidden gem, a glimpse of Cheshire’s tranquil rural past just 10 miles from the city of Chester.

The watermill is just of the A534 by the Cock O’Barton, postcode SY14 7JA. Further information can be found at www.strettonwatermill.org.uk .