Tolgus Mill’s Historic Restoration Continues – Could You Be Part of Its Future?

The second phase of restoration at Tolgus Mill, the last original tin streaming works in Europe, is well underway, with fresh support from the newly launched ‘Friends of Tolgus’ volunteer scheme.

Breathing New Life Into a Cornish Treasure

Located at Cornwall Gold, the Grade II Listed Tolgus Mill is a crucial piece of Cornwall’s industrial past. Following the successful completion of roof restoration works in 2024, visitor numbers have grown, and interest in the site has surged. Now, the focus has shifted to essential maintenance and restoration, ensuring the mill’s legacy for generations to come.

With more hands needed to support these efforts, Cornwall Gold has introduced the ‘Friends of Tolgus’ scheme, inviting passionate volunteers to play an active role in restoring the historic site. Several individuals have already signed up, contributing their skills and time to help preserve this piece of Cornwall’s mining history.

A Step Back in Time – What’s Changing?

The restoration efforts are being led by Cornwall Gold’s experienced team, who are currently designing a newly curated visitor route through the mill. Set to launch in 2025, this will return the mill to its original layout, allowing visitors to witness the tin streaming process firsthand – from smashing and separating to purifying the material.

Additionally, work is being carried out to restore the Holman shaking tables, bringing another element of the mill’s operations back to life.

To enhance the experience, Cornwall Gold has also reintroduced its popular mill tours, led by ‘Friends of Tolgus’ volunteers. These tours will guide visitors along the new route, offering a chance to learn more about the mill’s operations, ask questions, and gain insight into the complex tin streaming process.

A Labour of Love

Speaking about the restoration efforts, Mike Taylor, Managing Director at Cornwall Gold, explained the challenges involved:

“Restoring and maintaining our Tolgus Mill has always been a challenge due to ongoing costs for specialist materials, the need for rare expertise and the Grade II Listed Status. We do not receive any funding so rely on funds from the sales of our stunning Tolgus jewellery collection as well as contributions, of both time and money, both of which are gratefully received. Our ‘Friends of Tolgus’ scheme has been hugely popular, and we are delighted to be able to continue with the mill’s restoration, helping to keep Tolgus Mill alive.”

Cornwall Gold remains free to enter, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to experience a working part of Cornwall’s tin mining history. With continued investment into Tolgus Mill, the attraction is proving how a local business can preserve its heritage while reinvesting profits for the greater good.

Could you be part of Tolgus Mill’s future? If you’re interested in supporting the restoration, the ‘Friends of Tolgus’ scheme is welcoming new volunteers to help safeguard this remarkable piece of Cornish history.