For over twenty years, Simon Cooper has been a resident at a corn mill in Nether Wallop, Hampshire, a property with an estimated age of 1,100 years, possibly dating back to the reign of Alfred the Great. Cooper acquired the mill, one of many mentioned in the Domesday Book, after a friend alerted him to its sale. At the time, he was operating a fly-fishing business. The mill, which continued to grind corn until the 1920s, had been empty for several years and appeared to be in a state of disrepair when Cooper first discovered it.
Despite its condition, the mill and its surrounding clear water captivated Cooper, leading him to undertake a two-year restoration project. His first night at the mill was marked by the powerful sound of water against the ancient brickwork, a sound that has since become central to his life there. Cooper's book, "Tales from the Mill," offers an episodic look at his life at the property, drawing parallels to a bygone era.
The village of Nether Wallop itself is depicted as an idyllic setting, reminiscent of the atmosphere in "Downton Abbey," with events like an annual fete, Christmas church services, and regular community activities. The cottage where Joan Hickson's Miss Marple resided in the 1980s television series is also located in the village.
A significant aspect of Cooper's experience has been observing the abundant wildlife. He recounts the story of a swan named Arthur, whose solitary existence is briefly interrupted by a female swan, only for their fledgling offspring to disappear by the following morning, leaving Cooper to ponder the fate of the young cygnets. The mill grounds are also home to kingfishers, ducks, and a family of otters. One young male otter is noted for its remarkable boldness, frequently lounging on the porch of Cooper's fishing cabin and swimming in the lake.
Owning a historic structure like the mill presents ongoing challenges, including the annual difficulty of securing flood insurance. As his time at the mill draws to a close, Cooper acknowledges the profound impact the property has had on him, writing that owning a water mill can envelop one's soul in a way few other experiences can. He notes that the decision to leave this place will be a painful one.