LAPFORD Mill, a rare historic watermill site with roots reaching back to the medieval period, is looking ahead to a new chapter, combining heritage conservation, community activity and future development opportunities.

Known locally as a distinctive destination for live music, open-air events, hospitality, and more recently miniature steam railway activity, the mill has become a unique cultural and social space in rural Devon.

Following a challenging period for independent hospitality and the impacts of environmental disruption, the focus is now shifting toward preserving the site’s heritage while exploring opportunities for volunteer involvement, restoration support and renewed community participation.

The Grade II listed mill complex includes historic milling machinery, a restored waterwheel, extensive grounds, and a long-standing association with music, arts and rural life.

Its owners hope to build support for a sustainable future that honours the site’s history while opening new possibilities for education, heritage interpretation and public engagement.

A community fundraising appeal has been launched to support the future development of the miniature steam railway at Lapford Mill, with organisers inviting both donations and new volunteers to help keep the heritage project moving forward.

Set in the grounds of historic Lapford Mill, the Lapford Mill Miniature Railway has become a popular feature for visitors, families and steam enthusiasts, while also growing as a volunteer-supported community project rooted in heritage, learning and shared enjoyment.

Through a JustGiving crowdfunding appeal, organisers are seeking to raise an initial £2,000 to support essential improvements, equipment and the next phase of development.

Supporters are also being invited to become involved as volunteers. The appeal forms part of a wider vision for Lapford Mill as a place where industrial heritage, arts, engineering and community activity can continue to thrive.

Supporters can contribute via the Lapford Mill Miniature Railway JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lmsr

“This is very much a community project,” said Lapford Mill owner, Alex Gater. “We already have a wonderful core team of volunteers helping bring the railway to life, and we would love more people to get involved — whether by supporting the appeal, volunteering time, or simply helping spread the word. This initial £2,000 target will help us take practical next steps while building momentum for the future.”

Alongside fundraising, the project is welcoming expressions of interest from people who may wish to join the volunteer team. Opportunities range from practical support and event help to those with an interest in heritage engineering, railways, gardening or visitor engagement.

Organisers hope the appeal will help secure the next phase of development while encouraging wider community participation.

Steam-Up Days are planned for Saturday, May 2 and Bank Holiday Monday, May 4, and again on Saturday, May 23 and Bank Holiday Monday 25!

Visitors are welcomed from 11am to 4.30pm.

Supporters can contribute via the Lapford Mill Miniature Railway JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lmsr

To find out more about volunteering or the wider project, visit: https://lapfordmill.uk