Discover the art of weaving at Whitchurch Silk Mill in Hampshire with this hands-on two-day workshop. Perfect for beginners eager to learn a traditional craft in a historic setting!
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; this is a craft workshop focused on skill development.
Wildlife
History
The Whitchurch Silk Mill dates back to 1812 and played a vital role in British silk production through the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Conservation
The mill operates sustainably, preserving traditional techniques while minimizing environmental impact through eco-friendly practices.
Whitchurch Silk Mill
Discover the art of weaving at Whitchurch Silk Mill in Hampshire with this hands-on two-day workshop. Perfect for beginners eager to learn a traditional craft in a historic setting!
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.
Wear comfortable, close-toed shoes
The mill floor is historic and may be uneven; sturdy footwear is recommended.
Book early to secure your spot
Classes are popular, and registration fills quickly; reserve your place in advance.
Bring a notebook if desired
Taking notes can help you remember techniques and details covered in the workshop.
Expect a full day of hands-on work
Plan for a comfortable and active day, with breaks integrated into the schedule.
Comfortable clothing suitable for active work
Wear clothing you can move in freely during weaving activities.
Notebook and pen
Helpful for jotting down tips and techniques.
Basic eye protection
Optional for eye safety during certain weaving steps.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the full-day workshop.