Visitors are being invited to discover the fascinating history and engineering of one of the oldest windmills in the country, during a special Heritage Open Days weekend this month.

Chesterton Windmill, one of Warwickshire's most recognisable landmarks will be open to the public on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September, from 10am-4pm (last entry 3:30pm).

The windmill which is located on Windmill Hill Lane in Leamington still contains working machinery.

The event offers a rare opportunity to step inside the historic structure and learn about its remarkable heritage.

Guided visits through the windmill take approximately 20 minutes, allowing guests to see the machinery up close and hear more about the site's history. Due to the popularity of previous open days, visitors should expect queuing times of between 30 minutes and one hour.

Cllr Darren Cheshire, Portfolio Holder for Environment, Heritage and Culture at Warwickshire County Council, said: "Chesterton Windmill is one of Warwickshire's most treasured landmarks, and these open days provide a wonderful opportunity for people to experience a unique piece of the county's history from the inside. Whether you're interested in local heritage, engineering, or simply looking for a memorable family day out, visitors will be able to discover the stories behind this remarkable windmill while also supporting important local charitable causes."

A pop-up shop hosted by Warwick's Market Hall Museum will be selling a selection of windmill-themed souvenirs, local flour, honey and other gifts, with both cash and card payments accepted.

Visitors can also enjoy refreshments from a dedicated tent offering hot and cold drinks, cakes and snacks. The refreshment tent is cash only, with proceeds supporting local charities, including Warwickshire Air Ambulance and St Giles' Church building repairs.

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Parking and Travel Information

A temporary car park will be available adjacent to the windmill, with a £5 donation per vehicle supporting local charities, including St Giles' Church and Warwickshire Air Ambulance. Please note that parking payments are cash only.

Visitors are asked not to park on Chesterton Road, the main road leading to the windmill.

The nearest free parking is available at Harbury Library on High Street.

From there, the windmill is approximately a 40-minute walk, with much of the route following roads with grass verges and no pedestrian pavements.

Visitors should be aware that:

• Access to the windmill is via a steep staircase and small hatch.
• Appropriate footwear and clothing should be worn.
• Babies in arms and pets are not permitted inside the windmill.
• Children must be supervised at all times.
• The interior consists of confined spaces and steps between levels.
• Working machinery may be operating during visits and can be noisy.
• Queuing times may range from 30 minutes to one hour during busy periods.

For anyone interested in local history, architecture and engineering, Chesterton Windmill's open weekend offers a rare chance to experience one of Warwickshire's most distinctive and historic buildings firsthand.