Overview
Cushendale Woollen Mills operates as a working textile factory and visitor attraction in Graignamanagh, County Kilkenny. Unlike most modern production facilities, it functions as a vertical mill, meaning every step of the manufacturing process happens under one roof. Visitors can watch raw Irish fleece arrive, get cleaned and carded, spin into yarn on vintage machinery, and weave into finished blankets and throws. The site also houses a well-stocked showroom where you can buy directly from the makers, with knowledgeable staff explaining the provenance of each yarn and the sustainable practices that underpin the brand.
A Six-Generation Legacy
The mill’s origins trace back to 1204, when Cistercian monks from nearby Duiske Abbey built a water-powered grinding mill on the banks of the River Duiske. The location proved ideal for textile production, and by the 1600s, Flemish weavers had established workshops in the area. The site transitioned to commercial woollen manufacturing in the 1800s under Patrick Cushen. In 1925, the Cushen family purchased the original abbey mill, bringing their own weaving heritage – which dates back to 1778 – into a six-generation enterprise. Today, Cushendale is one of only two vertical woollen mills still operating in Ireland, preserving techniques that have evolved but never disappeared.
Guided Tours & Workshops
Guided tours are the best way to understand the craft. The mill offers two formats, both requiring advance booking. A group tour accommodates up to eight people for about an hour at €20 per person, while a personal tour for two to six people runs for roughly 90 minutes at €40 per person.
During the visit, guides walk you through the production floor, pointing out a 1900s spinning mule that remains fully operational. You’ll see how water from the River Duiske is still channeled into the dye vats, and watch traditional looms transform dyed yarn into patterned fabrics. The personal tour allows more time for questions about fibre selection, natural dye processes, and the mill’s ongoing production methods. Tours run by appointment only, so email info@cushendale.ie or call 059 9724118 to secure a slot. The mill can accommodate private groups year-round, though seasonal tour times are typically scheduled between April and September.
The Showroom & Shopping
The on-site showroom functions as both a retail space and a display of Irish textile capability. The range includes hand-loomed throws, scarves, classic tweed caps, woollen socks, and hand-knitted sweaters. Signature lines like the Boher Mohair XThrow and Silare Mohair are available in a wide colour spectrum, from natural greys to deep wine reds. The mill has also attracted international fashion collaborations, working with award-winning Irish designer John Rocha CBE and French fashion visionary Jean-Charles de Castelbajac to produce limited-edition collections that merge contemporary design with traditional Irish wool.
Sustainability in Practice
Sustainability is built into the mill’s operations rather than added as an afterthought. All fibres are sourced from Irish farms and are fully traceable from pasture to product. The manufacturing process holds OEKO-TEX® certification, guaranteeing the absence of harmful substances, and meets the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), which verifies ethical animal welfare and land management practices. Water power from the River Duiske reduces reliance on external energy for washing and dyeing. The mill also operates a repairs promise, offering to mend purchased items to extend their lifespan and reduce textile waste.
Practical Information
Visitors should plan their trip around the mill’s operating schedule. The showroom and tour desk are open Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 17:30, and Saturday from 10:30 to 17:30. There is a daily lunch break from 12:30 to 13:30, and the mill is closed on Sundays and Irish bank holidays. Free parking is available on the premises. While the showroom is fully accessible on ground level, the production floor contains narrow passages and historic wooden flooring, so visitors with mobility requirements should contact the team beforehand to discuss access arrangements.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
The mill’s location in the River Barrow and Nore catchment area makes it a convenient stop on a wider heritage route. A short walk leads to the banks of the Duiske River, which has powered the site for over eight centuries. The riverside town of Graiguenamanagh features the medieval ruins of Duiske Abbey, where the original monastic mill was founded. Within a 20-minute drive, you can visit the hilltop Cistercian ruins at Jerpoint Abbey, explore the walking trails and Discovery Park on the Castlecomer Plateau, or head into Kilkenny City for medieval architecture and cultural attractions. Allow time to browse the showroom after your tour, as popular colourways in the throws and scarves sell out quickly during peak seasons.