I am planning a 2 week trip to Scotland and England in the Spring with a friend. This is her first trip to Europe. She is an artist with an interest in textilesvintage and current. At this point we are thinking about flying into Edinburgh and returning home from London and traveling by train, possibly stopping in York and maybe Bath. The V and A in London is definitely on our list. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thank you.
Posted by
Charlotte, NC, USA
3428 posts
At least one of the larger shops on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh has a tour where your friend could see tartan being woven. There may be others, but I recall only one- it's on your right as you head up to the castle. There are other tartan mills you can tour in other Scottish cities/villages. There might also be an opportunity to see wool being carded, spun or knitted on some of the islands.
Posted by
Camano Island, WA, usa
1526 posts
Check the National Trust UK site: (just search textiles)They list several homes with historic textile collections that may be on to your route. You can book a tour to go to Castle Howard from York. I imagine some of the Universities might have some leads on the current textile scene. Bath does have a wonderful historical clothing museum. The V & A doesn't really have a major textile collection that I have seen. They do change exhibits. If you are interested in the Craftsman era and William Morris...you should look for historic residences that are furnished in that style, etc. The National Trust UK does have tourist passes available by the week, 2 weeks, etc. that would save on addmission costs. Most of the London Museums are free but not the Manors and Estates that have some of the more unique and specific collections.
Posted by
Sammamish, WA
403 posts
Fashion and Textile Museum London (FTM) The Dress Collection at the Museum of London (free!) Kensington Palace in London has and exhibition of Lady Diana's dresses, and items from Queen Victoria, including dresses and accessories. A number of museums and palaces include amazing tapestries, if you friend is interested in that sort of thing too.
Bath has a small fashion museum as well.
Posted by
OP
Sacramento, CA
45 posts
Thanks for all of your help.
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
If you can find the time, think about getting to Harris. This is where Harris tweed is from and still made. I visited Donald John MacKay a few years ago with friends. He's way out on a fantastic beach. Check out this video. Also, my favorite knit shop is in Ullapool. It's called Strandlines. Pam