Windmill Stump, [off North Road], Newtownards, Co Down, BT23 3A?

The remains of an early 18th century windmill stand on a hill to the east of North Road, on the north edge of Newtownards, County Down. This three-storey structure is approximately 10.75 metres high and 5.5 metres in external diameter, constructed of largely flat, random rubble with slightly battered walls. Doorways are located on the north and south sides, both featuring rough sandstone dressings and segmental relieving arches above. A date stone inscribed “1729” sits above the south doorway; further lettering above it is no longer legible. A small slit window is positioned above the date stone, and a similar window is present on the north side. The interior has been cleared, but niches for the original ceiling timbers remain visible. The mill is roofless. A small, grass-covered reservoir lies immediately to the west of the windmill.

The windmill was likely erected around 1729, as indicated by the date stone. It was shown on James Williamson’s 1810 map and the 1834 Ordnance Survey Map, which refers to it as an “old mill stump,” suggesting it was out of use by that time. Valuation records from approximately 1836 indicate that the surrounding land was then owned by a Thomas Oliver, who also had a nearby house. Historical records suggest the site is of industrial archaeological interest, and it was noted as derelict by the mid-19th century.