Newmills Corn and Flax Mills

The mills are located in County Donegal, Ireland, just outside the town of Letterkenny along the River Swilly. The site is preserved as a national monument and managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW).

The complex features a massive 40-foot waterwheel, one of the largest functioning waterwheels in Ireland. This wheel powered the machinery for grinding grain and processing flax fiber.

Flax was processed to produce linen fiber, which was a major industry in Ulster and particularly in Donegal. The mills scutched and processed the flax before it was spun and woven into linen cloth at textile factories.

Yes, the site is open to the public as a heritage attraction managed by Ireland's Office of Public Works. Visitors can see the restored waterwheel and milling machinery in operation during guided tours, typically offered seasonally.