Cornwall Gold Sees Record Summer as Visitors Support Historic Mill Restoration

Cornwall Gold, home to one of Europe’s last original tin stream works, has reported a record-breaking year with visitor numbers up by 23% over the summer months. This increase comes despite an overall dip in tourism across Cornwall, and the additional visitors have provided vital support for the restoration of the historic Tolgus Mill.

Restoration of Tolgus Mill

The restoration of Tolgus Mill, a Grade II listed building, began in November last year. Cornwall Gold has funded the entire project, with work primarily focused on the roof of the Frame House section. Over the past eight months, just two team members have carried out the majority of the restoration, working to protect the mill from weather damage.

Part of the process has involved carefully removing the existing tin roof sheets by hand, which are being used as templates for new sheets made from reclaimed corrugated steel. New wiring has also been installed throughout the mill to improve lighting, and the team is aiming to have the large frame house operational again in the near future.

Public Access and Discoveries

In addition to the roof repairs, Cornwall Gold has reopened a room that had been locked away from public access for the past decade. During the restoration, the team also uncovered parts of the mill that had been hidden for years.

Cornwall Gold’s interactive Tolgus Mill exhibition allows visitors to see Cornwall’s milling past come to life, with live demonstrations of tin smelting and processing. The on-site production of Tolgus jewellery, which includes tin processed from the mill, is another draw. Profits from jewellery sales go directly back into the restoration and ongoing maintenance of the mill.

Plans for Future Restoration

Looking ahead, Cornwall Gold has announced plans for a second phase of restoration in 2025. With the first phase nearing completion, the team is encouraging visitors to continue returning to support their efforts. Entry to Cornwall Gold remains free, and the site expects to welcome school groups and local residents in the coming months to showcase the ongoing preservation of Cornwall’s industrial heritage.

For more information on visiting Cornwall Gold and to learn about Tolgus Mill’s restoration efforts, visit Cornwall Gold’s website.