Islay Woollen Mill
Victorian looms and Hollywood tweeds on Scotland's remote Isle of Islay
A working Victorian textile mill near Bridgend on the Isle of Islay, producing fine tweeds and woven fabrics for over four decades. The family-run mill operates traditional looms and supplies cloth to Hollywood productions, Savile Row tailors, and Scottish distilleries. The on-site shop stocks finished garments, throws, scarves, and island souvenirs. A living piece of Scottish textile heritage where visitors can observe the weaving process and purchase authentic, handcrafted products.
A brief summary to Islay Woollen Mill Co Ltd
- Isle of Islay, Bridgend, PA44 7PQ, GB
- +441496810563
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Ask staff about informal mill tours to observe the Victorian looms in operation and understand the weaving process firsthand—a fascinating glimpse into traditional textile craftsmanship.
- Purchase items directly from the mill shop for authentic Scottish textiles at source; scarves, throws, and tweed jackets make excellent souvenirs that support the family business.
- Combine your visit with nearby distillery tours—the mill's custom tartans for Islay whisky brands create a natural connection between the island's textile and spirits heritage.
- Visit mid-week or early in the day for a quieter experience; weekends and afternoons may attract more visitors, particularly during peak tourist season.
- Check opening hours before visiting, as the mill closes on Sundays and operates reduced hours on Saturdays; weekday mornings offer the best access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Islay Woollen Mill Co Ltd location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Islay Woollen Mill Co Ltd
A Living Textile Heritage
The Islay Woollen Mill stands as a testament to Scotland's enduring craft traditions, housed in a Category A listed mill building near the village of Bridgend. For over four decades, Gordon and Sheila Covell have operated this family business, restoring and revitalizing a historic structure that might otherwise have faded into the island's past. The mill employs two Victorian-era looms—machinery that speaks to the industrial heritage of Scottish textile production—and continues to produce fine woven fabrics that rival contemporary manufacturers in quality and character.From Hollywood to Savile Row
The mill's reputation extends far beyond Islay's shores. Its tweeds and woven fabrics have dressed actors in major Hollywood productions, including Braveheart, Forrest Gump, and Rob Roy. Beyond film, the mill supplies cloth to prestigious Savile Row tailors, shooting estates across Scotland, and international textile merchants. The mill also produces custom tartans for several of Islay's renowned whisky distilleries, creating a tangible link between the island's two most celebrated industries. This dual legacy—craft textile production meeting contemporary demand—makes the mill a unique cultural landmark.The Shop Experience
The mill shop offers a carefully curated selection of finished products and souvenirs. Visitors can browse tweed jackets, scarves, throws, cashmere items, cushions, caps, and gloves, all reflecting the quality and aesthetic that have earned the mill its reputation. The shop provides an opportunity to purchase authentic Scottish textiles directly from their source, with the assurance that each item represents genuine craftsmanship rather than mass production. The space itself reflects the mill's character—intimate and unpretentious, focused on the products rather than commercial spectacle.Observing the Craft
Visitors often receive informal tours of the mill's inner workings, where the Victorian looms can be observed in operation. Watching the mechanical precision of these historic machines, understanding the process from raw fiber to finished cloth, provides insight into a craft that has largely disappeared from modern manufacturing. The mill represents continuity with Scotland's industrial past while maintaining relevance in a contemporary market that increasingly values handmade, locally produced goods.A Royal and Cultural Landmark
The mill has hosted notable visitors, including members of the Royal Family during their visits to Islay. Its significance extends beyond commerce—it embodies the preservation of traditional skills, the sustainability of rural Scottish enterprise, and the cultural identity of the island itself. For many visitors to Islay, a stop at the woollen mill ranks alongside visits to the island's famous distilleries as an essential experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Skerrols House
0.7 km
A peaceful guesthouse retreat on Islay offering luxurious comfort, scenic views, and warm Scottish hospitality in Bridgend.
Peatzeria - Restaurant and Takeaway
5.2 km
Discover Peatzeria in Bowmore, Islay—your destination for delectable Italian cuisine and exquisite pizzas in a charming atmosphere.
The Island Bear
5.3 km
A warm, traditional bed and breakfast in Bowmore offering cozy comfort and easy access to Islay’s whisky heritage and scenic charm.
Islay Ferry Terminal
9.9 km
Scenic ferry gateway on Islay connecting to Jura and the Scottish mainland, blending maritime heritage with stunning coastal views.
Old Lochindaal Distillery Warehouses
11.1 km
Historic whisky warehouses anchoring Port Charlotte’s rich distilling heritage on scenic Islay’s coast.
Monument to Irish immigrants aboard the Exmouth Castle
13.8 km
A solemn tribute on Islay’s rugged coast honoring 241 Irish emigrants lost in the 1847 Exmouth Castle shipwreck.
The Machrie
14.3 km
A stylish coastal retreat on Islay blending world-class golf, modern luxury, and serene Hebridean landscapes.
Kildalton Cross
16.2 km
Discover the exquisite 8th-century Kildalton Cross on Islay—one of Scotland’s finest Celtic high crosses, rich in history and intricate biblical carvings.
Tormisdale Croft Crafts
16.4 km
Explore unique handmade crafts that embody the spirit of Isle of Islay at Tormisdale Croft Crafts, a must-visit destination for art lovers.
Cultoon Stone Circle
16.9 km
Bronze Age ellipse of standing and fallen stones bearing mysterious cup-and-ring carvings on Islay's windswept moorland.
Leodamais
18.0 km
Luxury self-catering homes overlooking Leodamais beach, blending coastal tranquility with Islay’s rich heritage and whisky culture.
The Whisky Island Gallery & Studio
18.0 km
Explore The Whisky Island Gallery & Studio for breathtaking art and photography that captures the spirit of the stunning Isle of Jura.
Port Ellen War Memorial
18.1 km
A solemn memorial to local sacrifice, standing witness to two world wars and maritime tragedy.
Royal Castle of Tarbert
51.7 km
Discover the Royal Castle of Tarbert, a historic gem in Scotland offering breathtaking views and a journey through time.
Knapdale Scottish Beaver Trail
51.7 km
Discover the Knapdale Scottish Beaver Trail, a nature lover's paradise where you can observe beavers in their natural habitat amidst stunning Scottish landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bridgend Woods
1.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Bridgend Woods, where vibrant wildflowers and peaceful riverside trails invite you to explore Islay’s natural heart.
Bridgend Bridge
1.8 km
A charming 19th-century stone bridge nestled in the heart of Islay’s historic village, surrounded by woodland and island heritage.
Old Guard Tower
1.9 km
Historic 19th-century lookout tower on Isle of Islay offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Scotland’s maritime heritage.
St Columba’s Episcopal Church : Islay
2.0 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of St Columba’s Episcopal Church, a hidden gem on the Isle of Islay perfect for reflection and cultural immersion.
Kilmeny Church [Church Of Scotland] : Islay
4.5 km
Explore the serene Kilmeny Church on the Isle of Islay, a beautiful blend of history and nature that offers peace and reflection.
Craigard Kitchen of Ballygrant
5.3 km
Cozy coffee shop in Ballygrant serving artisanal brews and homemade pastries with a warm island welcome.
Labels
5.3 km
Traditional coffee charm and homemade treats in the heart of Bowmore, Isle of Islay’s welcoming coffee shop.
Spirited Soaps
5.3 km
Discover handmade soaps infused with Islay’s whisky, gin, and rum, crafted with natural ingredients and island spirit in Bowmore’s charming gift shop.
Co-op Food - Islay Bowmore - Main Street
5.3 km
Your friendly neighborhood convenience store in Bowmore, Isle of Islay, offering fresh food, essentials, and great service daily.
South Islay Parish: Kilarrow Church
5.4 km
Discover Bowmore’s iconic Round Church, a unique 18th-century circular landmark offering stunning views and rich history on the Isle of Islay.
Bowmore Distillery
5.4 km
Discover Islay’s oldest distillery where centuries of whisky craftsmanship meet stunning coastal heritage.
Ballygrant Trail | Loch Ballygrant
5.7 km
Discover tranquil woodlands and serene lochside views on the accessible Ballygrant Trail, a peaceful nature escape on the Isle of Islay.
BiIly's Bench
6.2 km
Discover tranquility and scenic beauty at Billy's Bench, a peaceful retreat on the Isle of Islay perfect for reflection and nature appreciation.
Finlaggan Trust
6.6 km
Explore the historic seat of the Lords of the Isles on Islay, where medieval ruins and immersive exhibits reveal Scotland’s Gaelic heritage.
Randal R. Plot
6.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich heritage of Randal R. Plot on the Isle of Islay, a must-visit destination for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility.
Essential places to dine
Bridgend Restaurant & Katie's Bar
1.8 km
Authentic island dining with local flavors, cozy charm, and a celebrated selection of Islay whiskies and gins in Bridgend’s welcoming heart.
Bridgend Hotel
1.8 km
Charming boutique hotel on Islay offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and warm hospitality at the island’s heart.
An Cuan
5.2 km
Comfortable boutique B&B in the heart of Bowmore village, offering scenic sea or garden views and easy access to Islay’s cultural gems.
Taj Mahal Indian Restaurant
5.3 km
Authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Taj Mahal Indian Restaurant in Bowmore, Isle of Islay.
The Lochside Hotel & Restaurant
5.3 km
Charming waterfront hotel in Bowmore offering cozy rooms, local cuisine, and stunning views over Loch Indaal on the Isle of Islay.
Bowmore Hotel Restaurant
5.3 km
Experience authentic Islay flavors and world-class whisky in the welcoming heart of Bowmore village.
Bowmore Hotel
5.3 km
Family-run Bowmore Hotel blends local cuisine, cozy rooms, and an exceptional whisky bar in the heart of Islay’s capital.
The Harbour Inn
5.3 km
A charming waterfront inn in Bowmore offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and warm island hospitality on Islay.
Golden Dragon
5.3 km
Authentic Chinese takeaway nestled in Bowmore’s charming village square, serving classic dishes with island warmth and convenience.
The Cottage Cafe & fish bar
5.3 km
A simple, homely café in Bowmore serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes with local island charm.
Ballygrant Inn
5.6 km
Family-run inn on Islay offering cozy modern rooms, fresh local cuisine, and an award-winning whisky bar in a tranquil northern setting.
Lochindaal Seafood Kitchen
10.9 km
Savor fresh, locally sourced seafood in a warm, coastal setting at Port Charlotte’s acclaimed Lochindaal Seafood Kitchen on Islay.
Port Charlotte Hotel
11.1 km
Charming Victorian hotel on Islay’s coast with stunning sea views, fine dining, and a renowned whisky bar in a tranquil village setting.
Lochindaal Hotel
11.2 km
Experience authentic island hospitality, fresh seafood, and cozy comfort at Lochindaal Hotel in Port Charlotte, Isle of Islay.
The Balaclava Byre
16.5 km
A unique farm-to-table restaurant in a charming circular byre with handcrafted wood interiors and stunning views over Kilnaughton Bay.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Islay Woollen Mill Co Ltd
0.0 km
Victorian looms and Hollywood tweeds on Scotland's remote Isle of Islay
The Islay Whisky Vault
1.7 km
Discover the rich smoky heritage of Islay whiskies at The Islay Whisky Vault, your expert guide to rare drams and local treasures.
Mackinnon's Marmalade
1.8 km
Handcrafted Islay marmalades bursting with local fruits and island whisky—artisanal preserves capturing the essence of Scotland.
Islay Quilters
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant quilting community and handcrafted artistry at Islay Quilters in Bridgend, Isle of Islay’s charming craft hub.
Bridgend Shop
1.8 km
Your friendly, convenient fuel and grocery stop in Bridgend, Isle of Islay, offering essentials with a local touch.
Re-Jig Whin Park
2.6 km
Discover unique secondhand treasures and support Islay’s community-driven sustainability at Re-Jig Whin Park.
Wild Islay Refillery
5.3 km
A community-centered sustainable market in Bowmore offering zero waste and organic products for eco-conscious shoppers on Islay.
A S Porter - Family Butcher
5.3 km
Authentic family-run butcher shop in Bowmore offering premium local meats and fresh produce on the scenic Isle of Islay.
The Islay Whisky Shop
5.3 km
Islay's premier whisky retailer offering rare bottlings, expert guidance, and curated collections for connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
The Celtic House
5.3 km
Discover a cozy blend of Scottish literature, unique gifts, and artisan café delights in the heart of Bowmore on the Isle of Islay.
Kate's
5.3 km
Explore unique ladies' fashion at Kate's in Bowmore, Isle of Islay, where local charm meets contemporary style.
The Islay Shop
5.4 km
Islay’s largest retailer in Bowmore, offering a vast range of gifts, essentials, and local souvenirs with friendly island hospitality.
The White Room
5.4 km
Discover authentic Islay crafts and unique souvenirs in Bowmore’s charming gift shop, The White Room, nestled on Main Street.
Islay Home Stores
5.6 km
Discover unique homewares and essentials in the heart of Bowmore at Islay Home Stores, your friendly local shop on the Isle of Islay.
Charlotte Hannett Jewellery
8.8 km
Handmade island-inspired jewellery capturing the rugged beauty and heritage of Islay’s shores.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
DUFFIE'S BAR
5.3 km
Experience the ultimate Islay whisky bar in Bowmore, where rare malts, warm hospitality, and island charm converge.
AVS-Ls
6.6 km
Cozy bar on Isle of Islay offering local flavors, friendly faces, and a genuine island atmosphere in a tranquil setting.
Dmitry Severianov's piece of Laphroag
18.0 km
A unique tribute on Islay celebrating the iconic smoky spirit and heritage of Laphroaig whisky.
The Malt Mill Bar
18.2 km
A cozy whisky haven nestled in historic Malt Mill buildings, offering authentic Lagavulin drams and rich Islay heritage.
Colonsay Pub
31.1 km
Experience authentic island hospitality and local brews at Colonsay Pub, the vibrant social hub of the Isle of Colonsay.
The Corner House
51.3 km
A cozy and lively pub on Tarbert’s Harbour Street, famed for warm welcomes, quality drinks, and a true taste of Scottish coastal life.
McCuaig's Bar
55.4 km
Discover the heart of Rathlin Island at McCuaig's Bar, where traditional Irish hospitality meets stunning coastal views and vibrant live music.
The Anderson Lounge
55.8 km
A cozy, rustic bar in Cairnbaan offering local craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere for travelers exploring the Scottish Highlands.
The Argyll Inn
56.6 km
A cozy local bar in Lochgilphead offering traditional Scottish hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere every day from noon to late evening.
Bunessan Inn
58.5 km
Historic Isle of Mull pub and inn offering hearty food, local whiskies, cozy rooms, and stunning loch views in a warm community setting.
Lochranza Country Inn
58.8 km
Community-owned historic inn with stunning loch views, cozy rooms, and hearty dining at the northern tip of Isle of Arran.
The Keel Row
60.2 km
Cozy pub and restaurant in Fionnphort offering hearty Scottish dishes, scenic bay views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Mull.
Snack Bar
60.3 km
Experience the charm of the Isle of Mull at the Snack Bar, where delightful bites and stunning views create unforgettable memories.
The Coast Inn
64.5 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Coast Inn, Ballycastle's cherished pub offering local cuisine and craft beverages.
McBrides Bar
64.8 km
Experience traditional Irish hospitality at McBrides Bar in Bushmills, a cozy pub with local brews and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Jura Brewery
18.0 km
Discover Jura Brewery: A Craft Beer Experience in the Heart of the Isle of Jura, Where Tradition Meets Nature's Bounty.
The Wineport Restaurant
70.5 km
Experience the charm of The Wineport Restaurant on the Isle of Arran: a perfect blend of fine dining, local flavors, and breathtaking views.
Arran Botanical Drinks @Cladach Beach House
70.6 km
Discover unique cocktails and breathtaking views at Arran Botanical Drinks, a must-visit cocktail bar on the scenic Isle of Arran.
Kon-Tiki Boat Bar
70.7 km
Discover the lively Kon-Tiki Boat Bar in Portrush, a vibrant tiki bar offering tropical cocktails and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Kellys Complex Portrush
70.7 km
Discover the pulse of Portrush nightlife at Kellys Complex, where clubbing meets culinary delights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Cruize Bar Brasserie
70.8 km
Discover culinary excellence at Cruize Bar Brasserie in Auchrannie Resort, featuring a diverse menu for families and travelers in a stunning setting.
Ormidale Hotel
71.2 km
Charming family-run Victorian hotel and pub with en suite rooms, lively bar, and scenic views on the Isle of Arran.
Edgewater
71.4 km
Experience the essence of Scottish hospitality at Edgewater, a cozy pub in Brodick offering local beers, whiskies, and stunning coastal views.
The Legends Lounge
71.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Legends Lounge in Portrush, a perfect bar for enjoying drinks and local culture.
The Scottish Honky-Tonk
72.9 km
Discover the lively Scottish Honky-Tonk on the Isle of Bute for an authentic experience filled with music, hospitality, and local charm.
The Lagg Inn 1791
73.0 km
Experience the historic charm and warm hospitality of The Lagg Inn 1791, a perfect retreat on the stunning Isle of Arran.
The Islander Bar
73.1 km
Experience the charm of The Islander Bar on the Isle of Bute, where local flavors and stunning harbor views create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Grapes Bar
73.2 km
Experience the warmth of local hospitality at Grapes Bar, a cozy pub in Rothesay, perfect for relaxing with friends and enjoying a wide selection of drinks.
Mac's Bar
73.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mac's Bar in Rothesay, Isle of Bute - a perfect blend of local charm and delightful refreshments.
The Galatea
73.4 km
Discover lively evenings at The Galatea, a charming bar in Rothesay offering a delightful atmosphere, local drinks, and friendly service.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Scenic
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
