Former Corn Mill off Kilkeel Rd, Hilltown, Newry, Co Down, BT34 2JU

This is a substantial, two to three-storey corn mill situated on the right bank of the River Bann, east of Hilltown. The building’s orientation follows the natural slope of the land, allowing access to the first floor from ground level at the north gable. The roof is pitched, covered with slate at the river end and corrugated iron elsewhere. The walls are constructed of random rubble granite, with a smooth cement rendering on the south gable. Window openings on the west elevation are a mix of original and more recent additions, all now fitted with modern timber or metal frames. Access to the ground floor, which functions as a basement, is at the right-hand side. Modern sliding doors are present on the north gable, and there is a lean-to addition along the east wall.

A lined pit on the south gable indicates the former presence of a breastshot waterwheel, which would have been approximately 16 feet in diameter and 6 feet wide. A short tailrace leads back to the river, while the headrace is now infilled. No trace of a dam is visible in the yard immediately east of the mill.

The mill was depicted as an operating corn mill on an Ordnance Survey map from 1834, showing a return at the north end of the east wall. A valuation from 1838 describes a thatched structure measuring 45 feet 6 inches by 20 feet by 10 feet, with a 12 foot by 12 foot by 7 foot return, and belonged to Patrick O'Hagan. By 1859, the Ordnance Survey map shows a rectangular block, without the return. A subsequent valuation around 1861 identifies John Martin as the owner, describing the building as slated and measuring 64 feet by 20 feet and rising to 2.5 storeys. This suggests a significant refurbishment or complete rebuild occurred during the mid-19th century. The mill contained two pairs of stones, along with fans, sifters and elevators at this time. A related flax mill is also recorded (HB16/07/046B). Ownership passed to George Mussen in 1922, and the mill continued to operate until at least 1929, before it was most recently used as a vehicle repair workshop. The building is of industrial archaeological interest but lacks significance to merit listing.