Tellisford Mill lies in an idyllic corner of Somerset on the river Frome and has some wonderful wild swimming.

As you meander along the banks of the River Frome below Tellisford Mill, you may feel very far removed from everyday life. However this area was once an important industrial site with a history of milling going back to medieval times. 

Wool and cloth weaving brought great riches to this area of England although the mill was already in decline when it burnt down in 1896. It was rebuilt in a lesser guise as a flock mill, but closed finally in 1912 and fell into ruin.

During World War Two, it was considered a strategic enough spot to have two pillboxes in close proximity to the river. That was probably its last building flurry, although recently the ruins of the mill have been restored.

Nevertheless it remains a peaceful corner of old England despite being sandwiched between a couple of busy A roads.  Dropping down from the little eponymous hamlet, a steep path leads past one of those glorious Cotswold stone houses which blend timelessly into the landscape.

A stone bridge leads over the river, its cobbled arch giving fine views. Downriver, the water is channelled between high banks, framed by lush gardens and sweeping weeping willows. Upstream it is wilder, a riot of water reeds in cool reflective waters, framed by overhanging trees.

On the far side of the river, a left turn will lead to an expansive lush meadow and secretive fishing spots along hidden banks. However, the real delight is to the right where a short stroll leads to the shallow ramparts of a wide weir.

It is a peaceful spot where dragonflies flit through the lush green vegetation against the backdrop of the cascading silver waters. The grassy banks and shady trees invite lingering over lazy summer picnics whilst children can entertain themselves for hours. Ropes hang from trees over deeper pools and it is a wonderful wild swimming spot.

It is possible to meander on for another mile to the pretty village of Rode, where there is a pub, and return to Tellisford on quiet narrow roads to complete the circuit. However, the surroundings of the weir are so enchanting that you may well choose to venture no further.

Notes

Tellisford lies south of Bath with Frome just to the southwest. Coordinates:

51°17′59.59″N 02°16′50.09″W