Celebrating Restoration

The restoration of historic buildings holds a unique significance, preserving our rich cultural heritage for future generations to appreciate.

Recently, the grand reopening of the Black Pool Mill heritage dining venue in Pembrokeshire marked not only a triumph for architectural conservation but also a moment to honour the skilled contractors who meticulously brought this Grade II* listed building back to life.

At a dinner held in their honour, the exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to preserving the mill's original features were celebrated.

The restoration project of Black Pool Mill was spearheaded by William McNamara, the visionary founder and CEO of Bluestone National Park Resort.

This multi-million-pound endeavour aimed not only to restore the mill to its former glory but also to create a remarkable heritage dining experience that showcases the seasonal produce and ingredients of Pembrokeshire and wider Wales where possible.

During the restoration process, which has taken just over a year, great care was taken to ensure the preservation of the mill's historical significance. From the painstaking repair of the original stonework to the preservation of the mill machinery – much of which dates back to 1902 - every detail was executed with the utmost precision. The contractors played a crucial role in the project, employing their skills and expertise to breathe life back into the heritage building.

Expressing Gratitude to the Contractors

At a special dinner organised by Mr McNamara and Bluestone National Park Resort, the contractors who worked tirelessly on the mill’s restoration were the guests of honour. The event served as a heartfelt gesture of gratitude and recognition for their hard work and commitment to preserving the architectural heritage of the region.

Mr McNamara expressed his immense appreciation for the contractors' dedication and meticulous approach to their craft. "We owe a debt of gratitude to these talented individuals who painstakingly restored Black Pool Mill. Their attention to detail and commitment to preserving its original character has made this heritage dining venue a true gem. Without their hard work, this would not have been possible,” he said.

Celebrating Pembrokeshire 

The dinner itself was a testament to the emphasis placed on using local seasonal produce and ingredients where possible. The menu featured a selection of seasonal dishes, carefully curated to highlight the culinary treasures of Pembrokeshire and Wales.

The meal was a celebration of the mill's history and the vibrant culinary traditions of the area. Each dish showcased the flavours and textures that have defined Pembrokeshire's cuisine for generations. The dinner paid homage to the rich culinary tapestry of the region and the skills of the craftspeople involved in the restoration project.

Looking Ahead

The successful restoration of Black Pool Mill heritage dining venue represents a significant milestone in preserving Pembrokeshire's architectural heritage. Through the careful work of the contractors and the unwavering dedication of Mr McNamara and his team, the mill has been transformed into a remarkable dining destination that not only delights visitors but also showcases the best of local produce and ingredients.

The dinner held to honour the contractors was a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of recognising the skilled craftspeople who bring historical buildings back to life. It serves as a reminder that our heritage is not merely a relic of the past but a vibrant and living testament to our shared history.

As the legacy of Black Pool Mill lives on, visitors can now experience the charm of the past while indulging in the flavours of the present, all thanks to the extraordinary restoration efforts and the dedication of the contractors who breathed new life into this architectural gem.