Glasshouses Mill, which the dam served, was initially a corn mill but later transitioned to flax processing in the early 1800s. The dam was built in 1850 by brothers John and George Metcalfe, who expanded the mill and its operations. The mill was a prosperous business, employing around 250 people and known for its responsible employment practices. By the late 19th century, the decline of linen led local mills to produce jute and hemp, but Glasshouses Mill continued flax spinning until the death of George Metcalfe Jr. in 1898. Following his death, the mill struggled, eventually declaring bankruptcy in 1907. The dam is now a recreational area, offering opportunities for fishing, skating in winter, and water sports in summer, although it was literally bone dry when I passed in May 2025 (see photos).

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Elevation 110 m

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Thursday 23 October

9°C

5°C

20 %

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Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h

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Location: High And Low Bishopside, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, Yorkshire And The Humber, England, United Kingdom

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