Father and son turn Earsham Mill into thriving business hub

Since Iain Gwynn purchased Earsham Mill at auction in April 2019 for £380,000, he and his father Roger have refurbished 70pc of the mill, with plans to have the remainder completed within the next year.

Earsham Mill was in a dilapidated state when it put up for auction in 2019 (Image: Archant)Located near the Suffolk border, Earsham Mill currently houses 18 businesses and services including a café, art gallery, gym and even a specialist Japanese truck garage.

Iain said: “We have been blown away by the interest in our site and feel privileged to house the variety of businesses we do, all of which benefit the local area.

"I hope we will continue to grow and cement our place in the community”

Helen King, left, and Zoe Bryant, at Sew & So's (Image: Denise Bradley)Sew and So's is one of the businesses at Earsham Mill (Image: Denise Bradley)The former mill, which was rebuilt in 1862, was previously owned by Hovis in 1939 and continued to grind flour for bread until 1962 when it became an animal feed mill until closing in 1981.

Its location by the River Waveney makes for a picturesque setting to shop and eat, with both existing businesses and new ventures having found a home at the site. 

​Beryl, of Sew and So’s, said: “The mill is a beautiful setting for a combination of businesses to thrive in.

Sandra Leech, left, and Tina Fairhead at Grumpy's Cafe (Image: Denise Bradley)"It is a place to peruse, purchase and work with local businesses - it is also a beautiful spot to just sit and watch the wildlife in and around the river."

Jo, owner of Grumpy’s Cafe, added: “When we knew the mill was being bought, and by a wonderful family, I decided that it was time to take a leap of faith and open up the business I always dreamed of having.

"Being down the mill and next to the river has exceeded all expectations, we are truly blessed to be a part of the mill family.”