Higherford Mill was built, by Christopher Grimshaw as a water-powered cotton spinning mill in 1824.  In 1832 steam power was introduced to supplement the water power and the square stone chimney was erected on the hillside to the rear, with an underground flue to carry the smoke away.  This is still intact.

The Mill was saved from demolition and purchased by Heritage Trust for the North West in 1999.  The Trust intends that the Mill will become a focal point for the Creative Industries in East Lancashire.  Thirty six artists workshops are being constructed together with visitor facilities and an art gallery.  As funding is limited the project is being done in phases.

See their website for more details.