Rhynagarrie Mill, originally called the Mill of Ballintomb, was built in stone in 1842 by Alexander Grant. It was built beside the Bogroy stream which supplied essential water. A grain mill with an overshot wheel, it ground the barley essential for Speyside whisky production. It worked continuously for almost a hundred years: a testament to its sound design and construction. However, following a disastrous fire that destroyed the roof in the 1970’s, it fell into dereliction.

In 2000, when it was discovered by landscape architect, Elizabeth Banks, and her husband, Lawrence, it was a forgotten and forlorn ruin. They bought it, began the task of restoring it to its former beauty and it was then converted into a house designed by Douglas Forrest of Acanthus Architects.

Now a five-bedroomed luxury holiday home, its former industry can be felt through the stone of its construction, the water wheel still present in the living room and the millstone above in the Mill Bedroom. The architect’s sensitivity to the historical use of the Mill has allowed a sense of industry to be preserved while creating a warm, comfortable and welcoming family home.

Thank you so much for restoring my Great Great Grandfather’s mill. It was fantastic to stay in the mill I have heard so many stories about. Without your diligence it would have been lost to history. Rhynagarrie Mill (the Mill of Ballintomb) has always held special meaning to us. While I may be the first from a branch of the family in the US, I hope to return someday. The stone with my Great Great Grandfather’s initials carved in it with the date 1842 is even more special. Thanks again.

Doug Hague, Second Great Grandson of Alexander Grant and Marjorie Gilbert