Covering 237 acres of woodland and water, Newmillerdam Country Park was once part of an area known by the Norse name of Thurstonhaugh. The area became known as New Mylle on Dam when a new corn mill was built around 1285.  The original mill was probably situated upstream near to the site of the Boathouse and was rebuilt several times during the period before 1633 when it was moved to the present location by Francis Nevile of Chevet Hall.  At that time the dam used to feed the water wheel was increased in size.  The cornmill seen today on the A61 was built in the 1820's

Chevet Hall and Estate

Chevet Hall, rebuilt in 1529 by the Nevile family, used to stand to the east of the Country Park.  The park formed part of the Chevet Estate which covered an area of 2,340 acres in the townships of Sandal, Crigglestone, Walton and Chevet. 

When the estate was purchased by the Pilkington family in 1765, they used the estate for fishing and hunting.  The locals were not allowed in the grounds with poachers severely dealt with.  Later Lionel Pilkington had 9 lodges built for his gamekeepers who were charged with protecting the Estate. Two of the lodges, which were built in 1870's stand at the park gates either side of the dam.

In 1954 the park was sold to Wakefield Council who, who two years later opened up the area for all to enjoy. Chevet Hall was demolished, due to mining subsidence, in the 1960's.

Chevet Branch Railway Line

Originally the line was built by the Midland Railway Company as part of a Leeds bypass scheme from Royston on the main line to Bradford and the North.  However, sadly only the Royston to Thornhill section was ever constructed.  The line was mainly used for freight but a passenger service between Halifax and Sheffield became in 1909 with some trains travelling to St Pancras.  The line finally closed in 1968.

Today the line of the railway is a permissive footpath and bridleway which partly runs through the Country Park. Most of the track between Old Royston towards Chapelthorpe is suitable for horse riders and cyclists as well as walkers.