Six Mile Bottom – Village History, Windmill and Paths

Six Mile Bottom is a hollow in the landscape of Cambridgeshire, reclaimed from former heathland. The place offers several distinct points of interest: the hamlet’s origins with the railway, historic buildings and a milestone, an annual village show, as well as paths and a specific leisure activity. If you are looking for a hotel for a stay in Six Mile Bottom, it helps to distinguish clearly between local history, the event date and the activity you have planned.

Local history and village show

The hamlet at Six Mile Bottom only came into being with the construction of the railway in 1848; a few cottages were built at that time. The railway is more than just a point of reference for getting around: its construction marks the starting point of local settlement. St George's Church was built in 1933. These dates are 85 years apart, so the area’s history spans the railway’s construction through to a later church building.

The Wilbrahams and Six Mile Bottom Vegetable, Flower and Produce Show has been held annually for more than 40 years. Its name covers vegetables, flowers and produce, making the nature of the show clear. If you would like to combine your stay with the village event, check the date for your year of travel.

Windmill and milestone

The design of Six Mile Bottom Windmill as a post mill suggests that it was built before 1600. Two millstones remain in situ inside, meaning in their original position. The design and the stones complement each other as historical clues: the construction offers a tentative indication of its age, while the surviving millstones show a specific detail of milling technology. In a post mill, the entire mill body can be turned to face the wind.

Another connection to local history is the milestone on London Road, southeast of Lower Hare Park Farm in Six Mile Bottom. It stands on the A1304, on the west side, in a hedge. The carved stone post dates from the 19th century and was erected by the Newmarket Heath turnpike trust. Its precise location adds a specific link to the road to the area’s building history.

Paths and activities

Other paths in the Six Mile Bottom area lead east towards Weston Colville. An interesting path along the railway may be connected to the Street Way complex.

Six Mile Bottom Shoot offers simulated game shooting. Check the booking details before travelling if you plan to take part in this activity. The lodge at Six Mile Bottom Shoot is on Six Mile Bottom Road towards West Wratting; before visiting, you should also check the signs and access arrangements.

Discover more destinations: Cambridge, Arrington, Brampton, St Neots, Croydon, Isleham, Longstanton, Horseheath

For the overview of the wider region: Cambridgeshire.