
Whitchurch Silk Mill
Discover the oldest working silk mill in the UK, a living museum where heritage looms weave intricate fabrics by the tranquil River Test.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus

Whitchurch Silk Mill
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the oldest working silk mill in the UK, a living museum where heritage looms weave intricate fabrics by the tranquil River Test.
"A working mill offering an authentic glimpse into traditional silk weaving, highly recommended for its history and charm."

Take the Guided Tour
Highly recommended for in-depth insights into the silk-making process and history.
Enjoy Riverside Refreshments
Relax with coffee and cake by the River Test after your visit. Delicious!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Working Looms
Weaving Shed
Witness the mesmerizing dance of threads on historic looms, creating exquisite silk fabrics. Hear the 'scroop' of silk!

River Test Views
Riverside Cafe
Enjoy a peaceful moment with coffee and cake overlooking the tranquil River Test and its resident ducks.

Silk Ribbon Creations
Gift Shop & Workshops
Discover beautiful silk ribbons, some inspired by literary figures like Jane Austen and Bridgerton.

The Winding Room
Third Floor
See how yarn is transformed from skeins to bobbins, ready for the warping process.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Experience a Working Mill
Relax by the River Test
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Take the Guided Tour
Highly recommended for in-depth insights into the silk-making process and history.
Enjoy Riverside Refreshments
Relax with coffee and cake by the River Test after your visit. Delicious!
Accessible Facilities
The mill offers a lift and disabled parking for visitors.
Gift Shop Treasures
Find unique silk ribbons and other crafts inspired by heritage.
Tips
from all over the internet
Take the Guided Tour
Highly recommended for in-depth insights into the silk-making process and history.
Enjoy Riverside Refreshments
Relax with coffee and cake by the River Test after your visit. Delicious!
Accessible Facilities
The mill offers a lift and disabled parking for visitors.
Gift Shop Treasures
Find unique silk ribbons and other crafts inspired by heritage.
Hear the Silk 'Scroop'
Listen for the distinct sound of silk as it's woven – a unique sensory experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Whitchurch Silk Mill as a fascinating and unique 'working museum' that offers an authentic glimpse into traditional silk weaving. The knowledgeable and friendly staff, combined with the picturesque riverside setting, make for a highly recommended and enjoyable experience. Some visitors noted it could be even more magical in warmer months.
"As a tailor I had a vested interest in visiting the Mill, but it was better than I hoped. Unlike most museums with static displays this is a working Mill so you can actually experience the process. Take the tour to get the most out of it and then relax beside the river and duck pond with a coffee. Highly recommended."
Hilaire O'Shea
"A heritage silk mill to enjoy some hours with such interesting facts about silks. The mill has a clear Tets river running through and ducks- so peacefully for you to enjoy brunch/ coffee and nice cake there after your visit. Nice village to walk around in Hampshire. Also there are Some nice gifts to buy here if you want."
Thao Le
"I organised a trip here with a small group of care home residents. You are able to park outside the front door in a disabled space if needed. We met two lovely ladies who showed us how the machines work and lots of interesting facts. The residents were very impressed. There is a lift to use if needed. We didn't have time to stop for tea and cake too, but the cakes did look delicious. Next time!"
Sammi George
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Whitchurch Silk Mill is located in Whitchurch, Hampshire. It's about 13 miles from Winchester. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is a common method. The mill offers disabled parking right outside the front door.
Yes, there is parking available, including disabled parking spaces conveniently located outside the front door.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Whitchurch Silk Mill website or their social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission prices are typically reasonable, reflecting its status as a heritage site. Check their website for current ticket costs. Some visits may be 'kindly gifted' as part of collaborations.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially for group visits or during peak times, is often recommended to ensure entry and to help the mill manage visitor numbers.
Absolutely! The mill is well-suited for group visits, with staff being very informative and welcoming. They can accommodate special arrangements, as demonstrated by a successful care home resident visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can witness a working silk mill, see historic looms in action, learn about the silk weaving process from start to finish, and enjoy the peaceful riverside setting. Guided tours are highly recommended.
Yes, it is a working mill, preserving traditional silk weaving skills. You can see the machinery in operation and understand the craft.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to get the most out of your visit. They provide detailed explanations of the silk-making process.
Yes, the mill is accessible. There is a lift to access different floors, and disabled parking is available right outside the entrance.
The 'scroop' is the distinctive sound that silk makes when it's being woven, a unique characteristic of the material that you can hear at the mill.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe that offers coffee, snacks, sandwiches, and afternoon tea with lovely views of the River Test.
The cafe serves light refreshments like coffee, snacks, sandwiches, and delicious cakes. They also offer afternoon tea.
Yes, you can enjoy lunch at the riverside cafe, which offers sandwiches and other light meal options.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, allowing you to capture the historic machinery and the beautiful silk creations. Always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
Key photo spots include the working looms, the winding room, the exterior by the River Test, and the unique silk ribbons. The Georgian architecture also offers great shots.
Yes, capturing the intricate details of the silk weaving process is a highlight for many visitors. The dynamic movement of the looms makes for compelling photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Craft Enthusiasts
☕️ Relaxed Visitors & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Silk Weaving
From the creel, the threads move to the winding room, where they are transferred onto bobbins. This stage involves winding the yarn under tension, preparing it for the next crucial step: the loom. The sounds and sights of these preparatory stages are fascinating, offering a glimpse into the dedication required for traditional textile production.
Finally, the prepared threads are set up on the heritage looms. Here, the magic truly happens as shuttles fly, interlacing the warp and weft threads to create beautiful silk fabrics. Visitors can witness this mesmerizing process, often hearing the distinct 'scroop' of the silk, a sound that signifies its quality and authenticity.
A Glimpse into Industrial Heritage
The mill's operation is intrinsically linked to the River Test, which powers its water wheel. This natural energy source highlights a more sustainable approach to industry in its early days. The presence of the river also adds to the picturesque setting, with brown trout often spotted swimming in its clear waters.
Today, the mill operates as a working museum, dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the traditional craft of silk weaving. Through its continued operation and educational initiatives, it ensures that future generations can appreciate and learn from this historic industry.
Collaborations and Special Collections
These special ribbons are handwoven on heritage looms by master weavers, showcasing the mill's commitment to traditional craftsmanship. The inspiration extends to popular culture, with some ribbon collections drawing parallels to the aesthetics of shows like 'Bridgerton', blending historical craft with contemporary appeal.
The mill also participates in events like Weftival, offering opportunities for visitors to engage with textile arts, learn new skills like off-loom weaving, and connect with other artisans and businesses in the creative community. These events underscore the mill's role not just as a historical site, but as a vibrant hub for textile enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit