About Us
Waltham Abbey Royal Gunpowder Mills is a charitable organization dedicated to preserving, protecting, and sharing the rich history and natural heritage of 175 acres of historic buildings, wildlife, and archaeological sites. Situated in Waltham Abbey, Essex, we are home to 21 listed buildings and much of the site is designated as a Scheduled Monument and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Our mission is to conserve, research, and display the historical, archaeological, and natural significance of the Gunpowder Mills, ensuring its value for future generations and the enjoyment of the public. This important work is driven by a small, passionate team of staff, supported by a dedicated network of volunteers.
In line with our mission, we offer a range of educational, visitor, and volunteering programs. The site and its unique buildings are also available for hire, hosting events and film productions.
We work closely with organizations such as Historic England, Natural England, and the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, as well as other key stakeholders, to safeguard and promote this special site.
To learn more about the work of our Registered Charity (No. 1210355), please contact us at info@royalgunpowdermills.com
We are also home to the Armoury, showcasing 300 years of armament history. To view the Armoury collection click here
Gunpowder Mills announce Andrew McIver as new Chairman.
Andrew McIver has been appointed Chairman of the Gunpowder Mills. Andrew has been a Trustee of the Waltham Abbey Royal Gunpowder Mills Charitable Foundation since 2021, having joined as a British history fan and believer that such assets need to be preserved and communicated for future generations.
Since joining the board Andrew has provided expert financial advice, supporting the Charity through a merger and ensuring robust finances to support strategic planning. He will now undertake a new challenge as Chairman, leading the organisation and board of trustees as they begin an exciting journey to becoming a self-sustaining mixed-use site that preserves its unique heritage, provides a fantastic day out for its audiences, and builds on a legacy of innovation to provide a new home for small businesses in Essex.
Andrew trained in Chartered accountancy and investment banking before undertaking senior finance roles in large international retail and leisure companies. Andrew brings significant expertise and experience in financial planning, and for the last twenty-five years he has operated primarily in the online gambling industry including CEO of two major listed UK companies and Chairman of a private equity owned Italian operator. He is currently Chairman of B90 Holdings Plc and a governor of the Royal Albert and Alexandra School.
Andrew replaces outgoing Chairman Mark Pemberton, who has served as Chairman since 2011. In Mark’s time at the Gunpowder Mills, he has overseen the growth of the organisation, managed it through the COVID pandemic, and undertaken strategic planning to ensure the security of the site and the Foundation’s endowment. Recently he has overseen the merger of the Charity with the site’s Operating Company, and the establishment of a new strategic direction. Mark’s career has been spent in the heritage sector with senior roles at English Heritage as Director of National Collections and previously at the Science Museum and the Ironbridge Gorge Museum. His experience focuses on operational and commercial management of museums and heritage bodies. He is currently Chairman of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust, and recently oversaw the transfer of the site to the National Trust, safeguarding its future. He is also a trustee of Barts Heritage and of Trent Park Museum Trust, and a director of NMRN Operations Ltd (the operational arm of the National Museum of the Royal Navy).
Andrew McIver said: “It’s an honour to be appointed Chairman of the Gunpowder Mills and to help guide it in the next stage of its development. I would like to thank Mark for his unstinting service over the last fifteen years, during which much has been achieved”
Mark Pemberton said: “I am pleased to be handing over to Andy at this key moment in the development of the Gunpowder Mills. His experience as a trustee and commitment to the site, plus his extensive commercial experience at senior level will ensure that the site delivers on the recently agreed long term strategy.”
