Weaving in Hampshire since 1830. Whitchurch Silk Mill is the oldest working silk mill in the country: a Grade II* Listed Regency watermill on the River Test in Whitchurch, Hampshire, that has been weaving continuously for nearly two centuries through bankruptcy, war, changing ownership and changing fashion, stubbornly refusing to stop. Building of the Mill began in May 1813 on land owned by the Dean and Chapter of Winchester Cathedral. In 1817 silk merchant William Maddick purchased the Mill and began extensive alterations, creating the mill pond and beginning silk production in earnest. Between 1911 and 1955 the Mill wove silk for Burberry, producing 22 different colours of silk lining for their famous raincoats. After falling into disrepair, it was rescued by Hampshire Buildings Preservation Trust in 1985, restored and reopened in 1990 as a working museum under the management of Whitchurch Silk Mill Trust, to ensure the survival of winding and weaving using traditional machinery and methods. Within the quintessential Georgian Mill, a small highly skilled team of weaver tacklers wind, warp, and weave beautiful artisan cloth using a historic collection of machinery and traditional silk weaving skills which have been passed down through generations. Every length of cloth that leaves the looms carries more than just fine silk threads - it tells the story of the Mill's unique heritage and the true craftsmanship that has gone into making it. The Mill specialises in shot silk taffetas, twills, and silk ribbons, combining traditional techniques and archive classics with thoughtful, contemporary design. Silk ribbon weaving is classified as a critically endangered craft - at serious risk of no longer being practised in the UK. At Whitchurch, it is very much still alive. Recent commissions have included a recreation of George Washington's silk suit, a collaboration with Jane Austen's House and Bridgerton-inspired ribbons. Bespoke commissions are welcomed.

Awards and Recognition

Tourism South East Beautiful South Awards: Gold 2022 and Gold 2025. VisitEngland Best Told Story Award 2021-22. Hampshire Business Awards finalist.

Social Media

https://www.instagram.com/whitchurchsilkmill/ https://www.facebook.com/WhitchurchSilkMill/

Can people visit or buy direct?

Some items are available to order through their online shop. For more specialist items email info@whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk. Bespoke commissions are also welcomed via the website. The Mill is open to visitors Tuesday - Sunday and Bank Holidays, 10:30am - 5pm. Last entry 4pm.

Website

https://whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk

Address Summary

28 Winchester Street, Whitchurch, Hampshire, RG28 7AL