English Heritage

Visit Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings and discover the building that changed skylines across the world forever.

Known as the grandparent of skyscrapers, the Main Mill opened in 1797 as a purpose-built flax mill. It was the first multifloored iron-framed building in the world. Its pioneering frame is what makes it an internationally important industrial heritage site.

The Maltings has grown, been repurposed and adapted many times over the years. It was a maltings from 1897 to 1987 and also served as a temporary army barracks during the Second World War.

Explore the self-guided exhibition on the ground floor of the Main Mill which tells the story of this unique survivor of the Industrial Revolution.

Don't miss:

• Digital and hands-on activities for all ages in the exhibition.
• Discover the stories of workers, engineers, soldiers and entrepreneurs at the mill.
• Explore the world’s first multi-storey iron-framed building.

English Heritage will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the visitor destination from 1 April 2025. Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings is owned by Historic England who saved and sustainably restored the site for future generations to enjoy, with funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Historic England manages the venue including the work spaces for hire and is planning to restore and redevelop further areas across the site. The Turned Wood Café will continue to be open.