A familiar island landmark has an artistic connection. When JMW Turner visited in 1795, he began a watercolour of Bembridge Windmill. The National Trust describes his view as showing the sea at the foot of the hill.
From working mill to island landmark
Built in the early 1700s, Bembridge is the Isle of Wight’s only surviving windmill. It served the local community for roughly two centuries and last worked in 1913. Its story offers a different way to look at the island, through industry, landscape and art.
Read the National Trust’s history of Bembridge Windmill for the full account.
Plan before you travel
If you would like to include the windmill in a future break, check the official visitor page for the opening calendar, admission details and accessibility information for your chosen date. This history feature does not imply that the windmill is open throughout November or December.
Your next island chapter
A little background reading can make a future island escape more rewarding. Browse accommodation and check your preferred dates directly with Isle of Wight Stays. No particular stay dates or prices are advertised here.
Sources checked on 20 October 2026. The image is an original art-and-milling-themed illustration, not a Turner artwork or a photograph of the windmill.