Discover the timeless craft of weaving at Whitchurch Silk Mill. Create your own wall hanging with expert guidance at this historic textile site.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required, but good hand coordination helps.
Wildlife
History
The Whitchurch Silk Mill has been producing high-quality silk since 1818, contributing to the region's reputation as a textile hub.
Conservation
The mill practices sustainable manufacturing, emphasizing eco-friendly dyeing and the preservation of historic machinery.
Whitchurch Silk Mill
Discover the timeless craft of weaving at Whitchurch Silk Mill. Create your own wall hanging with expert guidance at this historic textile site.
Whitchurch Silk Mill is a historic working silk mill in Whitchurch, England, preserving traditional silk weaving and textile craftsmanship. The Mill operates in a genuine Victorian setting and offers public tours, hands‑on workshops, and special events that showcase live looms and conservation projects. Visitors can join guided production tours to see looms in action, take weaving and braiding classes, or learn practical mending skills in darning workshops. The Mill also collaborates with heritage organisations such as the Mills Archive Trust and stages seasonal family trails including holiday and Halloween activities. Educational courses range from single-session experiences — like Weave a Wall Hanging and Beginners Braiding — to multi-day study such as the Two Day Weaving Workshop, all designed for beginners and small groups with expert instruction. Whitchurch Silk Mill celebrates its long history through events like the Loom 10 relaunch and limited-edition silk releases inspired by local historical themes. The site supports craft preservation, offering opportunities to meet expert weavers and discover conservation work firsthand. As a museum and working production site, the Mill balances interpretation with live demonstration, making it suitable for families, craft learners, and history enthusiasts. Booking options include single-visit tickets, annual pass visits, and virtual production tours for remote audiences. Located in Whitchurch, England, the Mill is connected to national heritage networks and archives, contributing to the understanding of Britain’s textile and milling history. Clear visitor information and structured workshops provide accessible pathways for newcomers to learn traditional silk weaving skills.
Admission and booking details are available online.
Years History
210 Years
Celebrated 210th anniversary on October 8.
Location
Whitchurch, England
Historic market town setting.
Live Demonstrations
Operational looms
See looms in action during tours.
Experiences
16 Experiences
Workshops, tours and seasonal trails.
Reserve a tour, workshop, or seasonal trail to experience living textile heritage and expert-led craft sessions.
Choose comfortable clothing
Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting little fibers on, as weaving can be a bit messy.
Arrive early
Getting there early ensures you have plenty of time to learn and create without feeling rushed.
Ask about historic techniques
Take the opportunity to learn about traditional weaving methods from the instructors.
Bring your creativity
Feel free to bring your own ideas or patterns to personalize your wall hanging.
Comfortable clothing
Wearing comfortable, casual clothes allows free movement and avoids fabric snags.
Apron or smock
Protects your clothes from fibers and dye.
Notebook and pen
Great for jotting down pattern ideas or techniques learned.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the session, especially in warmer months.