About Us

The Islay Woollen Mill was first established in 1883, and since its re-opening in 1981 has been owned and run by husband and wife team, Gordon and Sheila Covell.  

This traditional family-run business uses two restored Dobcross looms dating from the 1920's, and Gordon and Sheila and their son Marcus, along with a team of four, have worked together for over thirty years to weave cloth designed in house.

Cloth designed by the Islay woollen mill has featured in Hollywood blockbusters, including Braveheart, Forrest Gump, Rob Roy, Warhorse, and more recently The Big Friendly Giant, but most of the cloth is sold to firms in England, Scotland, France and Germany, and much goes into the production of items sold in the shop. 

Originally tweed was used for country wear and we stock traditional jackets, breeks, caps and waistcoats, as well as throws, wraps, scarves and rugs. The Rob Roy and Braveheart designs remain a firm favourite with our customers, and many items are woven up in these colours. Tweed by the metre is also sold at the mill, and is often bought to be sewn up into ladies and gents jackets, dresses, bags and cushion covers.  

Please come and see our designs for yourself - you will be made very welcome!

Islay Woollen Mill is situated in the heart of Islay, just off the main Port Askaig road near Bridgend. Why not come and visit us?The map below shows exactly where we are.